Residence Permit Restrictions in Turkey: Neighborhoods Closed to Foreigners (2025)
With its captivating blend of cultures, rich history, and vibrant urban life, Turkey continues to attract thousands of foreigners each year. Nowhere is this cultural richness more palpable than in Istanbul, a city that bridges continents, ideologies, and eras. From its bustling bazaars to its dynamic café culture, Istanbul offers more than just a place to live. It promises a life full of stories, flavors, and perspectives. For many, moving to Turkey is not just about relocation, but a dream to experience a way of life that’s both welcoming and endlessly fascinating.
However, those dreaming of building a life in Turkey (whether temporarily or long-term) must be aware of the country’s residence permit restrictions, which are based on foreign population density in specific neighborhoods. As of 2025, numerous districts and areas have been closed to new residence permit applications. This means that even if you find the perfect home in a popular district, you may not be legally allowed to register your address there. Knowing these restricted areas in advance is essential to avoid legal complications and to make informed housing decisions that align with your residence plans.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about navigating Turkey’s residence permit system while avoiding the pitfalls of closed neighborhoods. We’ll explain which areas are off-limits and how to check if your desired address is eligible.
Why Are Some Neighborhoods Closed to Residence Permit Applications?
The Turkish government has introduced restrictions on residence permit applications in certain neighborhoods and districts due to a disproportionately high concentration of foreign nationals. The primary aim behind these restrictions is to promote social harmony and protect the demographic balance between local and foreign populations.
These restrictions have been introduced gradually. Initially, 781 neighborhoods were closed to foreigner registration for temporary protection, international protection, or residence permits. However, as of July 1, 2022, this number was increased to 1,169 neighborhoods, covering multiple provinces and major cities in Türkiye.
You can find the official announcement by the Directorate General of Migration Management here:
https://www.goc.gov.tr/mahalle-kapatma-duyurusu-hk2
The 20% Foreign Population Cap
One of the key principles guiding this policy is what is known as the “20% rule.” In any given neighborhood where the foreign population exceeds 20% of the total residents, the area is flagged for restriction.
In such areas:
- New residence permit applications will not be accepted.
- Rental contracts submitted as part of a residence permit application will be considered invalid.
- Only exceptions such as newborn children or nuclear family reunification are allowed.
This policy is part of a broader effort to encourage more balanced integration and prevent the formation of densely foreign-populated clusters in urban neighborhoods.
Completely Closed Districts in Istanbul (2025 Update)
According to a 2025 update issued by the Ministry of Interior, the following entire districts in Istanbul are now completely off-limits for new foreigner residence permit registrations. This applies across all types of permits, including short-term, family, and student permits.
No new registrations allowed in the following districts:
- Fatih
- Esenyurt
- Avcılar
- Küçükçekmece
- Başakşehir
- Sultangazi
- Bağcılar
- Zeytinburnu
- Bahçelievler
- Esenler
Additional Restricted Neighborhoods in Istanbul
Beyond the fully closed districts, some individual neighborhoods in other parts of Istanbul are also restricted. Foreigners with rental contracts in these areas cannot use those addresses for residence permit applications.
Specific Closed Neighborhoods in Istanbul (2025):
Beşiktaş
- Yıldız Mahallesi
Beylikdüzü
- Beylikdüzü OSB Mahallesi
Beyoğlu
- Kocatepe Mahallesi
- Şehit Muhtar Mahallesi
- Bülbül Mahallesi
- Çukur Mahallesi
- Kamer Hatun Mahallesi
- Kalyoncu Kulluğu Mahallesi
- Yenişehir Mahallesi
- Katip Mustafa Çelebi Mahallesi
- Bostan Mahallesi
- Asmalı Mescit Mahallesi
Sarıyer
- Maslak Mahallesi
Şile
- Meşrutiyet Mahallesi
Şişli
- İnönü Mahallesi
- Ergenekon Mahallesi
- Mecidiyeköy Mahallesi
- Cumhuriyet Mahallesi
Tuzla
- Aydınlı-KOSB Mahallesi
Ümraniye
- Dudullu OSB Mahallesi
Ankara – Neighborhoods Closed to Residence Permits
In the capital city Ankara, several neighborhoods across different districts have been closed to residence permit applications due to a high concentration of foreign nationals. Specifically:
- In Altındağ district: Önder, Ulubey, Solfasol, and Hacı Bayram neighborhoods are now closed for new foreign registrations.
- In Mamak district: Demirlibahçe, Köstence, Şafaktepe, and Bostancık neighborhoods are restricted.
- Additionally, certain neighborhoods in Beypazarı, Çankaya, Sincan, Polatlı, and Yenimahalle districts have also been designated as restricted.
İzmir – Neighborhoods with Restrictions (Total: 27 Neighborhoods)
As one of the major cities in the Aegean region, İzmir has also seen neighborhood-level restrictions on residence permit applications due to rising foreign populations:
- In Konak district: Kadifekale, Pazaryeri, Bozkurt, Tan, and Yeni neighborhoods are off-limits for new residence permit applications.
- In Bornova district: Işıklar, Yunus Emre, and Zafer neighborhoods are included in the restrictions.
- In Buca district: Seyhan neighborhood
- In Karabağlar district: Aşık Veysel neighborhood
- In Torbali district: Karşıyaka and 19 Mayıs neighborhoods are closed to residence permit requests.
Antalya – Closed Neighborhoods (Total: 10 Neighborhoods)
In Antalya, a leading tourism destination in Türkiye, several areas have been closed to new residence permit applications due to heavy demand:
- In Alanya district: Mahmutlar, Kargıcak, Kestel, and Avsallar neighborhoods are restricted.
- In Konyaaltı district: Liman, Hurma, and Sarısu neighborhoods are closed.
- In Döşemealtı district: The 2nd and 3rd sections of Antalya Organized Industrial Zone (AOSB)
- In Muratpaşa district: Topçular neighborhood is among the restricted zones.
Bursa – Neighborhoods Restricted for Foreign Residency (Total: 19 Neighborhoods)
In Bursa, a key city in the Marmara region, several neighborhoods have been closed to foreign residence applications:
- In Osmangazi district: Altıparmak, Alacamescit, Kiremitçi, and a total of 13 neighborhoods are restricted.
- In Yıldırım district: Duaçınarı and Beyazıt neighborhoods
- In Nilüfer, Karacabey, and Yenişehir districts: Selected neighborhoods are also included in the restriction list. (Check the Directorate of Migration Management’s updates for the full list.)
What Happens If You Apply From a Restricted Area?
If you submit a residence permit application using a rental agreement or utility bill from a closed neighborhood:
- Your application will be automatically rejected.
- The immigration office will not accept your documents, even if you’ve paid rent and have a legal contract.
- You will need to find housing in a neighborhood that is still open for residence permit applications.
To avoid problems, you can double-check the latest list of restricted areas before signing any rental agreement. You can consult with a licensed immigration lawyer or real estate agent or our immigration team who is familiar with the updated residence permit rules. You can equally monitor official announcements regularly, as the list of restricted areas may expand or change.
Exceptions Introduced in 2025: Gulf Country Citizens
In 2025, the Turkish authorities introduced special exemptions for citizens of certain Gulf countries. These individuals can now apply for residence permits even in areas that areotherwise closed.
Countries eligible for exemptions are Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Iraq is not included in these exemptions. Iraqi nationals cannot apply for residence permits in closed neighborhoods or districts.
These exemptions aim to ease the challenges foreign investors face, especially when it comes to utility subscriptions like electricity, water, and natural gas, which require a valid residence permit.
Tips for a Successful Residence Permit Application
To ensure a smooth application process:
- Avoid renting property in restricted areas. Always confirm whether a neighborhood is open to foreigner registrations.
- Check government sources regularly. The rules may change with little notice.
- Work with professionals. Immigration advisors and experienced real estate agents can help you navigate the rules effectively.
- Know your rights. If you’re eligible for an exemption (e.g., Gulf country citizen or family reunification), prepare the necessary documentation in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is a “closed neighborhood” in Turkey?
A closed neighborhood is a district or neighborhood where residence permit applications from foreigners are temporarily or permanently suspended due to a high concentration of foreign residents.
2. Why are certain areas closed to foreign residence permit applications?
The Turkish government implemented this policy to maintain demographic balance and ensure social cohesion in areas where foreign population exceeds 20% of the total residents.
3. What happens if I apply from a closed neighborhood?
Your residence permit application will be automatically rejected, regardless of whether your documents are otherwise complete and valid.
4. Are there any exceptions to this rule?
Yes. Exceptions are made for newborns of foreign nationals already residing in Turkey and for nuclear family reunification. Additionally, citizens of six Gulf countries may apply in closed areas (see Question 9).
5. Is Istanbul the only city with closed neighborhoods?
No. Cities like Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, and Bursa also have multiple restricted neighborhoods, not just Istanbul.
6. Can I move to a restricted neighborhood after getting my residence permit?
No. Even address changes to closed neighborhoods are not allowed for foreign nationals unless they fall under exemption categories.
7. What should I do before signing a rental contract in Turkey?
Always verify whether the address is located in an open neighborhood. Check the official list or consult an immigration lawyer or real estate agent familiar with the latest regulations.
8. Which nationalities are allowed to apply in closed areas?
Citizens of Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Saudi Arabia are allowed to apply for residence permits even in restricted neighborhoods, as of the 2025 exemption policy.
9. Can Iraqi citizens apply in closed districts under the exemption?
No. Iraqi nationals are not included in the exemption and cannot submit residence permit applications in neighborhoods that are designated as closed.
10.Will these restrictions affect my student or work visa application?
These neighborhood restrictions apply specifically to residence permit applications based on address registration. If you are applying for a student or work visa, your primary permission to stay is based on your school or employer, but you still need to register your address. If your address falls in a restricted area, your residence permit may still be denied