Türkiye exempts US and 9 other countries from residence permit fees, what SA should know

• Türkiye announced that citizens of 10 specific countries qualify for a free residence permit application process
• The exemption is linked to reciprocal agreements and bilateral ties between Türkiye and these partner nations
• South Africans are not on the list and must still pay the standard administrative fees when applying

Türkiye has confirmed that nationals from 10 countries will not be required to pay administrative fees when applying for a residence permit in the country. The announcement was made by Turkish authorities on 19 October 2026 and has drawn attention from South Africans considering a move abroad.

The countries whose citizens qualify for the fee waiver are Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. South Africa does not appear on the list, meaning South African applicants must still meet the standard fee requirements as part of the residence permit process.

Why these 10 countries were chosen

The exemptions are understood to be connected to reciprocal agreements and long-standing bilateral ties between Türkiye and these nations. Many of the listed countries host large Turkish diaspora communities, which has historically strengthened the relationship between those governments and Ankara.

For citizens of the listed nations, the waiver removes one of the upfront financial hurdles that would otherwise apply when seeking legal residency in Türkiye.

What makes Türkiye an attractive destination

Türkiye has become an increasingly popular destination for foreigners looking to relocate long-term. Retirees, remote workers, and investors from Europe and North America have been drawn to the country's lower cost of living, its Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines, and its growing urban infrastructure.

Residence permits are generally required for any foreign national who plans to stay beyond their standard visa period. The application involves submitting documentation through Turkish immigration authorities, and fees have traditionally been part of that process for most nationalities.

For South Africans specifically, the fee waiver does not apply, but Türkiye remains an accessible option for residency provided applicants meet the documentation and financial requirements set by Turkish authorities. Those planning to apply are advised to check the official Turkish government immigration portal for the most current fee structures and application guidelines.

Read the full article here.

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Source: Briefly News

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