Can My Spouse Live
in Turkey? (2026)

Option 1: Family Residence Permit (Married Couples)

If you are a Turkish citizen or hold a valid Turkish residence permit (and have been legally resident for at least 1 year), you can sponsor your spouse for a Family Residence Permit. This is the standard route for married expat couples.

Your spouse will need an apostilled marriage certificate, health insurance, and proof that you earn enough to support them (at least the Turkish minimum wage per family member).

Option 2: Your Spouse Applies Independently

If you have been in Turkey for less than a year, your spouse cannot yet benefit from your sponsorship for a family permit. However, they can apply for their own short-term (tourist) residence permit independently, using a rental contract and proof of funds. This is also the only option for unmarried partners.

Option 3: Your Spouse Stays Visa-Free

If your spouse qualifies for visa-free entry to Turkey, they can simply stay for 90 days at a time under the 90/180 day rule — without any formal permit. This works for many Western nationals and is a practical short-term solution, though it's not ideal for permanent relocation.

Unmarried Partners

Turkey does not currently recognise civil partnerships or common-law relationships for immigration purposes. Unmarried partners cannot obtain a family residence permit. They must apply for their own independent residence permit using the standard tourist residence permit route (rental contract, health insurance, proof of funds).

Some expat couples choose to get legally married in their home country before relocating to Turkey, specifically to unlock the family permit pathway.

Children

Dependent children under 18 are also covered by the Family Residence Permit. They are listed as dependants on the sponsor's application.