Turkey Desk – Arslan Lit Lawyers
Specialist in Dutch immigration law and EU-Turkey Association Law
Turkish nationals hold a unique position under Dutch immigration law due to the Association Agreement between Turkey and the European Union (the Ankara Agreement) and the related standstill clauses. This agreement provides more favourable conditions in key areas compared to regular national and EU immigration policies.
At Arslan Lit Lawyers, we have in-depth expertise and years of experience in this complex legal field. Our Turkey Desk provides tailored legal assistance to Turkish workers, entrepreneurs, and their family members. We guide clients through residence procedures and use Association Law to strengthen their legal position.
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How can we help you?
✅ Family reunification and formation
• Lower age requirement for partners: from 18 instead of 21
• Parents, grandparents, children, and grandchildren may – under certain conditions – also qualify
✅ Employment and residence as a worker
• Apply for residence without a recognised sponsor
• After 3 years of work: no longer requires a work permit (TWV)
• Lower fees for applications, extensions, and modifications
✅ Residence permit for self-employed persons
• Turkish entrepreneurs are exempt from the regular points-based system of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO)
• The RVO will assess whether your business serves an essential Dutch interest, but for Turkish nationals this is done solely on the basis of a business plan
• The business plan is assessed based on:
– Financial soundness of your business
– Whether your business meets a need in the Dutch market
– Contribution to the growth of the Dutch economy
– Compatibility with a free market economy
– No disruption of the labour market or competition
• Each part of the business plan must include financial justification
✅ Non-temporary humanitarian residence
• No civic integration diploma required for family members of Turkish workers
We represent you in procedures before the IND, courts, or the Council of State, and rely – where appropriate – on EU Court of Justice rulings regarding Association Law.
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Contact the Turkey Desk at Arslan Lit Lawyers
Do you have questions about your residence rights, your position as a Turkish national, or the legal possibilities under the Association Agreement?
Our experts are happy to help.
📞 Call us at 020 223 2466 (international: +31 20 223 2466)
📧 Email directly: turkeydesk@arslanlitadvocaten.nl
📩 For general inquiries: info@arslanlitadvocaten.nl
You can also reach us through our social media channels (see bottom of the page).
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Speak to our experts – Easily book a video consultation
Would you like quick legal advice from one of our specialists? Book a 30-minute personal video consultation. During this session, you’ll receive clear and practical advice tailored to your situation.
• Direct contact with a specialised lawyer
• Fully confidential and professional
• Accessible from any location
🎥 Book your consultation via our online appointment form or call us.
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Arslan Lit Lawyers – Your bridge between the Netherlands and Turkey
We are committed to defending your rights to residence, employment, and family life – with expertise, dedication, and vision.
