What to Do if You Lose Your Passport or Residence Permit in Türkiye
If You Lose Your Residence Permit
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Report the Loss to the Police
The first step is to report the loss to the nearest police station. Request an official “Lost Property Report” (Kayıp Tutanağı). This document is crucial when you apply to replace your lost permit.
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Prepare the Required Documents
Before visiting the immigration office, you need to gather the following documents:
- Police report.
- Two biometric photographs.
- Your passport and a photocopy (including pages showing your name, photo, and latest entry stamp).
- Photocopy of your lost residence permit (if available).
- Proof of residence address (if requested).
- Receipt for the card replacement fee (payable at a tax office).
Tip: Always keep a scanned copy or photo of your residence permit as backup documentation.
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Visit the Immigration Office
Go to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü) with all your documents. No prior appointment is required for cases involving lost or stolen residence cards.
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Pay the Replacement Fee
The card printing fee is payable at a tax office. Typically, this fee is half of the amount paid for your initial residence permit application, but it may vary depending on the year and exchange rates. Be sure to bring the payment receipt when you visit the immigration office.
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Receive Your New Residence Permit
Once your application is processed, your new residence permit will be sent to you by registered mail.
If Your Residence Permit Is Lost or Stolen While Outside Türkiye
If you are outside Türkiye and realize that you have lost your residence permit, the process differs slightly:
- Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa or e-visa to re-enter Türkiye.
- Upon arrival, inform the immigration officer at passport control that you are a resident and have lost your card. Show your passport and explain the situation, as your residence status can be verified in their system.
- After entry, visit a local police station to obtain a loss report, then follow the standard replacement process as previously outlined.
If You Lose Your Passport
While the specific instructions for a lost passport are less detailed, the general steps include:
- Report the Loss: Go to the nearest police station to report the loss and obtain a loss report.
- Contact Your Embassy or Consulate: Reach out to your home country’s embassy or consulate in Türkiye to initiate the process of getting a replacement passport.
- Keep Copies of All Documents: Maintain records of all reports and new documents for your records.
Summary Table: Quick Steps if You Lose Your Residence Permit
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. File police report | Report the loss, obtain a “Lost Property Report” (Kayıp Tutanağı) |
| 2. Gather documents | Photos, passport (+copy), permit copy (if available), proof of residence, payment receipt |
| 3. Immigration office | Visit without appointment, submit documents |
| 4. Pay replacement fee | Pay half of initial permit fee at a tax office, bring receipt |
| 5. Receive new card | Card delivered by registered mail upon approval |
Take the Next Step with Study in Turkiye
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