AiBotAnkara, Türkiye – In a move aimed at providing relief to foreign nationals residing in the country, Türkiye’s government has cancelled a planned additional increase in residence permit fees. The decision, following a thorough review by the Interior Ministry, will spare applicants from paying significantly higher costs, with potential hikes reaching up to 930%.
According to sources within the government, the current fee schedule introduced in January 2026 will remain in effect, with no further adjustments or hikes applied after May 1. The decision has been met with welcome relief by foreign nationals, whose livelihoods and investments depend on their ability to reside in Türkiye.
Residence permit fees in Türkiye are determined under the reciprocity principle, a policy aimed at reflecting the visa fees charged by other countries to their Turkish counterparts. Under this system, some nationalities are exempt from paying fees, while others face varying rates based on their country of origin. This principle has long been a point of contention among foreign nationals residing in Türkiye, with concerns over fairness and transparency often raised.
Industry analysts and expat groups had urged the government to reconsider the planned fee hike, citing concerns over increased costs and the potential impact on the country’s economy. By maintaining the current fee structure, the government is seen as supporting the interests of international investors and residents, who have grown increasingly significant to Türkiye’s economic development.
The decision is also viewed as a key victory for foreign nationals residing in the country, who have faced significant increases in residence permit fees over the past few years. By reversing the planned hike, the government is seen as demonstrating sensitivity to the needs of its international population.
“It’s a welcome relief for us and our clients,” said a spokesperson for a major expat services provider in Istanbul. “Higher fees could have posed significant difficulties for many foreigners, particularly those from lower-income countries. We appreciate the government’s pragmatism and commitment to maintaining a balanced approach to residence permit fees.”
The decision is expected to have a positive impact on the broader expat community in Türkiye, with many foreign nationals set to benefit from the reduced costs. As the country continues to attract an increasingly global population, the government’s decision is seen as a key step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for international residents.