How long can you be absent from Turkey without losing your residence permit?

To maintain a valid short-term residence permit (ikamet) in Turkey, there are specific rules concerning how long you can be absent from the country without jeopardizing your resident status. Generally, the absence allowed for holders of the ikamet should not exceed 120 days in total during the year for which the permit is issued. If you plan to be outside Turkey for longer than this duration, it could lead to the cancellation of your residence permit.

This rule aims to ensure that those who have residence permits are genuinely residing in Turkey for the majority of their permit duration. If your lifestyle or business requires you to be outside Turkey frequently or for extended periods, it's advisable to consult with Turkish immigration authorities or a legal advisor to discuss how best to manage your residency status while meeting your travel needs.

Moreover, the ikamet offers significant advantages for Russians living in Turkey, including:

• Legal Residency: It allows you to stay in Turkey beyond the typical tourist visa limits of 90 days within any 180 day period.
• Access to Services: Holders can access state services such as healthcare and education.
• Ease of Travel: It simplifies travel in and out of Turkey without repeated visa applications. Understanding these details helps ensure compliance with Turkish immigration laws and the successful management of your residence status.