Do I Have to Serve in the Military After Becoming a Turkish Citizen?
Everything foreign-born men need to know about mandatory military service in Turkey. We tell you the truth that no one tells you.
What Comes After Citizenship?
Becoming a Turkish citizen is a major milestone. For many, it brings security, stability, and access to healthcare, education, and even visa-free travel. But it also comes with obligations — one of the most important (and often misunderstood) is mandatory military service.
If you are a foreign-born male who recently acquired Turkish citizenship, you might be wondering:
Am I required to serve in the military?
What if I’ve already done military service in my home country?
Can I postpone it? Or avoid it?
How does dual citizenship affect this?
What is “paid military service” (bedelli askerlik)?
What if I live abroad?
This guide covers all of it — backed by official legislation from Law No. 1111 and updated for 2025.
II. The Legal Basis: Article 43 of the Turkish Military Service Law
According to Article 43 of Law No. 1111, any male individual who acquires Turkish citizenship later in life is subject to the same military service obligations as Turkish citizens of the same age group and educational background.
But there are exceptions — and they matter.
III. Who Is Exempt From Military Service After Gaining Citizenship?
You are exempt if:
✅ 1. You were 22 years old or older when you became a citizen
This is the most critical factor.
🔹 If you are 22 or older at the date of your citizenship approval, you are automatically considered to have completed your military obligation.
✅ 2. You already served in another country
If you provide valid documentation showing that you completed mandatory military service in your country of origin before acquiring Turkish citizenship, you are also exempt.
📌 Important: You must submit official proof (with translation and notarization) to the Turkish authorities.
IV. Who Is Required to Serve in the Turkish Military?
You are required to serve if:
You are male
You became a Turkish citizen at the age of under 22
You have not previously served in the military elsewhere
You do not qualify for deferment or exemption
These individuals will be evaluated the same way as Turkish citizens born in Turkey.
V. Types of Military Service in Turkey (2025)
Once determined eligible, you’ll be asked to choose from the following service types:
1. Long-Term Service (Uzun Dönem):
12 months
For university graduates who are not eligible for short-term
2. Short-Term Service (Kısa Dönem):
6 months
For university graduates only
3. Paid Military Service (Bedelli Askerlik):
28 days of basic training
Requires payment of a fixed fee
Most popular option for late-in-life citizens
VI. How Much Is Paid Military Service in 2025?
While the fee changes annually, recent figures show:
2021 Bedelli Askerlik Fee: ₺39,788.64
2020 Overseas Military Service (Dövizle): €5,261
📌 In 2025, it is expected to be in the range of ₺150,000–₺200,000 depending on inflation.
VII. What About Dual Citizens or Those Living Abroad?
Article 38 and 39 of the law allow deferments and alternative service paths.
✅ If you live abroad and work with a permit:
You can postpone your military service until age 35
✅ If you reside outside Turkey for at least 3 years:
You can apply for Overseas Military Service (Dövizle Askerlik) by:
Proving 3 years of foreign residence
Paying the fee in foreign currency
This option is often chosen by Europeans and Middle Easterners with Turkish dual nationality.
VIII. What Happens If I Ignore the Obligation?
Not fulfilling military obligations may result in:
Denial of certain public services
Blockage of passport issuance
Issues with inheritance, tax registration, and more
Deportation risk in some cases (e.g., dual nationals)
IX. What You Should Do Next (Checklist)
☑️ Check your citizenship approval date and your age at the time
☑️ Locate any military service record from your home country
☑️ Translate and notarize your documents
☑️ Visit the military recruitment office or contact an attorney
☑️ Evaluate whether you qualify for exemption or deferral
☑️ If you’re under 22: start planning your best option (short, long, or paid service)
X. Final Thoughts: Military Obligation Is Real — But You Have Options
Military service is often the most overlooked obligation after acquiring Turkish citizenship. Many assume that being naturalized means freedom from national duties. That’s not the case — but it’s not a trap either.
With the right planning and legal guidance, most foreign-born citizens can defer, complete, or be exempt from service — without surprises or penalties.
📌 Need Help Understanding Your Military Obligation?
At Ensari Yiğitcan Çakmak Law Office, we help naturalized citizens:
Check exemption eligibility
Submit military service deferral or exemption forms
Prepare legal documents
Coordinate with consulates for overseas service options
📞 Let us help you navigate this important legal step.
🌐 www.ensariyigitcancakmak.av.tr
📧 info@ensariyigitcancakmak.av.tr
📱 +90 533 194 52 14
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