Military Obligations for New Turkish Citizens: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Turkish Military Service for New Citizens

This guide explains current military service rules (Law No. 7179 and its Regulation) for foreign-born men who become Turkish citizens.

Legal Basis

Under Law No. 7179 and the Military Recruitment Regulation, all Turkish‑born and naturalized male citizens are subject to conscription rules. These laws outline who must serve, who may be exempt, and how applications are handled.

Who Must Serve?

All male Turkish citizens are eligible for conscription:

• The service age starts on January 1 of the year you turn 20 and ends on January 1 of the year you turn 41.

• Under Law No. 7179, most male citizens serve 6 months (non‑commissioned or privates), while university graduates or reserve officers may serve 12 months.

Exemptions for Naturalized Citizens

1. Age at Time of Naturalization

• If you were 22 or older when you became a Turkish citizen, you are automatically considered to have fulfilled military service and will not be called up.

2. Prior Military Service Abroad

• If you completed mandatory military service in your home country before naturalization, and can present valid, translated and notarized documents, you may be exempt.

3. Deferred Service (Under 22 at Naturalization)

• Men under 22 when they become citizens can apply to defer service for up to 2 years, after which eligibility is reassessed.

Types of Service and Options

• Short-term service: 6 months (for most recent university graduates)

• Long-term service: 12 months (for reserve‑officer track)

• Paid military service (“bedelli askerlik”): One month of basic training + a fee (amount varies; as of 2025 it was around ₺280,850).

Those living abroad with a work permit for at least 3 years may be eligible for a foreign-currency exemption (dövizle askerlik), regardless of age, by paying in foreign currency.

Enrollment Process

1. Register with your local military conscription office (Askerlik Şubesi).

2. Submit:

   • Turkish ID card (T.C. Kimlik),

   • Passport,

   • Birth certificate,

   • Proof of prior service (if any),

   • Any translated and notarized foreign documents.

3. Request deferment or exemption if eligible.

4. If required, complete basic training or paid service.

Quick FAQ

---

Summary

• Service age: 20–41 (from year you turn 20 to year you turn 41)

• Most eligible men serve 6 months, or 12 months if reserve officer

• Exempt if citizenship was granted at 22+ or if prior service abroad is documented

• Deferment available for under-22 upon request

• Paid military service is also an option (fee + 1‑month training)