Annulment of Entry Ban to Turkey Based on Family Unity

Entry bans issued by the Directorate General of Migration Management or the Governorships may severely affect foreigners who are married to Turkish citizens or have close family ties in Turkey. In such cases, applying to the administrative courts for the annulment of the entry ban is both a legal right and a crucial step in preserving family unity.

Legal Assessment of Entry Ban in Light of Family Life

Under Turkish law, an entry ban may be imposed for reasons such as public order, public security, or public health. However, if these grounds are vague or not based on concrete evidence, and the individual does not pose a real threat, the restriction may violate the right to respect for family life, which is protected under both the Turkish Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights.

When Can an Entry Ban Be Lifted?

  • If the foreigner is married to a Turkish citizen

  • If they have children or other family members residing in Turkey

  • If they have previous legal residence or academic background in Turkey

  • If they do not pose a threat to public safety or health

  • If the decision was not properly notified or only recently discovered

These factors provide a strong legal basis to challenge the ban in administrative court.

Legal Procedure to File a Lawsuit

  1. The lawsuit must be filed within 60 days of notification or of becoming aware of the entry ban.

  2. The competent administrative court is determined based on the authority that issued the decision.

  3. The petition must clearly state the individual’s family ties, time spent in Turkey, educational background, professional activities, and any proof that supports the claim that they pose no threat.

  4. A request for suspension of execution should be included, especially if the person is outside Turkey and unable to enter.

Why Is Family Unity a Strong Legal Argument?

An entry ban may lead to spouses being separated, and children growing up without one parent. Courts have repeatedly ruled that such practices are disproportionate and unjustified when no concrete threat exists. For this reason, entry bans imposed on foreigners married to Turkish citizens are often annulled by Turkish courts.

Legal Support from Cindemir Law Office

At Cindemir Law Office, we offer expert legal assistance for foreigners and their families who are facing entry bans to Turkey. Our team provides support in preparing lawsuits, collecting evidence, filing suspension of execution requests, and ensuring family rights are upheld under Turkish and international law.

was last modified: June 17th, 2025 by Gökhan Cindemir