Turkey's Directorate General of Migration Management deported more than 140,000 irregular migrants in 2024, a record enabled partly by 270 Mobile Migration Points operating across all 81 provinces since July 2023. In the units' first three months, 74.5% of foreigners checked were found to be irregular migrants, a rate that fell to 2.7% by the most recent month reported. All deportation steps, from identification through administrative detention at Removal Centers, are carried out under Turkey's migration enforcement framework.
Turkey deported a record number of irregular migrants in 2024: the Directorate General of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi Başkanlığı) announced that more than 140,000 people were removed during the year, after 130,609 in 2023. Enforcement has continued at the same pace since. By April 21, 2025 the Directorate reported 27,673 removals for the year and a removal rate of 71 percent of apprehended irregular migrants, the highest ratio recorded. This article explains what these figures mean for foreigners living in Turkey, on what legal grounds a removal decision can be taken, and how it can be challenged.
Three tools drive the increase. Mobile Migration Points (Mobil Göç Noktası Araçları), introduced in July 2023, now operate in all 81 provinces with 270 vehicles checking identity and residence status on the street. During their first three months, 74.5 of every 100 foreigners checked were found to be irregular; the Directorate later reported this had fallen to 2.7 percent. Second, coordinated “Kalkan” operations with the police, gendarmerie and coast guard target migrant smugglers. Third, removal centres and return procedures were expanded, so that a larger share of those apprehended are actually removed.
“All deportation processes, from identifying irregular migrants to holding them in administrative detention at Removal Centres, have been carried out in strict compliance with human rights, legal standards, and our nation's values,” the Directorate stated. For families with a relative in detention, see our lawyer's guide to removal centres in Turkey.
The legal grounds for removal under Article 54 of Law No. 6458, and the seven-day period for taking a removal decision to the administrative court, are explained in deportation orders in Turkey: grounds, appeal and lifting. A removal decision is usually accompanied by an entry ban recorded as a restriction code. The code determines for how long, and under what conditions, the person may come back; see our guides on restrictive codes and on returning to Turkey after deportation.
Turkey's firm stance against irregular migration sends a clear message: navigating the complexities of immigration law is no longer an area where mistakes can be afforded. As a country positioned at the crossroads of continents, Turkey remains a prime destination for migrants and investors seeking new opportunities. However, the intensified enforcement, coupled with the rising demand to enter the country legally, underscores the critical need for professional guidance. Travellers should also be aware of how the entry rules interact with the 90 days in 180 rule.
At Bayraktar Attorneys, we specialize in Turkish Immigration Law and are committed to helping individuals and families navigate the legal landscape of obtaining residence permits, citizenship, or other forms of legal stay in Turkey. Whether you are seeking a residence permit through property investment, family reunification, or other lawful means, our experienced team provides comprehensive, tailored legal solutions.
With irregular migration under scrutiny like never before, the stakes for compliance with Turkish immigration law are high. A single oversight in your application could result in delays, rejections, or a removal decision. Applicants for residence permits face rigorous background checks, while investors applying for Turkish citizenship need to meet stringent valuation and documentation requirements. Investors weighing their options should review how to navigate the 400,000 dollar investment threshold for legal benefits in Turkey, and stay alert to enforcement actions such as the citizenship fraud investigation involving 1,198 fake applications.
Our firm ensures that every step of your application is handled with precision, from preparing the necessary documentation to navigating regulatory hurdles. We provide legal services in multiple languages and offer bespoke solutions for clients worldwide, including Chinese, Arabic, and Western investors.
The challenges posed by irregular migration and Turkey's resolute policies underscore the importance of working with a trusted legal partner. At Bayraktar Attorneys, we have a proven track record of assisting clients from diverse backgrounds with their immigration needs, including urgent applications against removal decisions.
By choosing us, you are not just hiring legal advisors; you are gaining peace of mind knowing your application is handled by experts who are well-versed in Turkish immigration law and procedure. We provide personalized consultations, strategic advice, and ongoing support to ensure the success of your immigration goals.
Let us guide you through the complexities of Turkish immigration law and help you secure your future in Turkey, free from errors and uncertainties. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your immigration journey.
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