International Protection Applications and Student Status in Turkey

International Protection Application Process

Turkey is an important country that offers international protection

to individuals around the world who are forced to flee abroad due to war, persecution or serious human rights violations. In this context, it is critical for international students in Turkey to understand how to apply for international protection and the challenges they may face in the process.

Application Procedures

In Turkey, applications for international protection are submitted through the General Directorate of Migration Management or the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management

in your province. Applications can be made in person or through a lawyer at border crossings or after entering Turkey. One of the most important stages of the application process is the declaration of the identity information of the applicant and his/her accompanying persons, if any.

Required Documents

During the application process, a “pre-registration document” is issued to the applicant upon completion of the registration process, followed by a “International Protection Application Document

“. These documents indicate that the person has officially started the protection claim process. It is therefore important that the documents are filled in completely and accurately. International protection applications take approximately 6 months to be assessed, but may take longer. The applicant will be regularly informed about the progress of the process.

Rights to Education

Once the international protection application process is completed, the right to education is of utmost importance for individuals who have obtained this status. International protection applicants in Turkey have the right to enroll in educational institutions in Turkey while their application is under evaluation or after they have been granted protection status. In particular, individuals in legal proceedings should maintain strong contact with educational institutions. It is usually necessary to have a student certificate (student ID) for high school and university applications.

Labor Rights

Individuals with refugee, conditional refugee or subsidiary protection status can apply for a work permit six months after their application. However, this process is separate from the procedures for obtaining a work permit with student status.

Applications to Consider

There are checks and procedures that need to be considered specific to each individual’s situation. During the application, the basic needs of the applicant and unaccompanied minors, if any, are taken into consideration and health and psychosocial support services can be provided. In this difficult process, individuals are helped to have a better standard of living.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to finalize an international protection application?

Applications are usually finalized within 6 months, but this may take longer. The applicant is informed about the progress of the process.

How to proceed if the application is rejected?

In case of rejection, the applicant has the right to appeal against the decision and can follow this legal process.

Can an international protection applicant study in Turkey?

Yes, they can benefit from education rights during the application phase or after receiving protection status. It is important to communicate with educational institutions.

Can an international protection applicant in Turkey apply for a work permit?

Yes, conditional refugees and persons under subsidiary protection can apply for a work permit six months after the date of application.

What rights do international protection holders have in education?

International protection beneficiaries have the same rights as Turkish citizens in primary and secondary education; in higher education, the rules set by universities apply.