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Türkiye is preparing to gradually lift the temporary protection status of Syrians as part of new measures aimed at accelerating voluntary returns, according to information obtained from security sources by the Türkiye daily.
Although one year has passed since the end of the war in Syria, the rate of returns from Türkiye has remained below expectations.
Since the war ended on Dec. 8, 2024, approximately 600,000 Syrians have returned to their country.
About 2.37 million Syrians are still living in Türkiye under temporary protection status.
Security bureaucracy officials said several steps were taken to speed up returns, but these measures did not produce the expected impact.
According to the information obtained, lifting temporary protection statuses immediately, as practiced in some European countries, was proposed to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
However, Erdogan reportedly objected to any practices that could be interpreted as forced returns, recalling Türkiye’s long-standing policy on the issue.
As a result, it was decided that returns would be carried out gradually through new measures.
Relevant ministries and institutions are expected to take coordinated steps in the coming days.
As part of the first phase, Türkiye has decided to end the provision of free health services for Syrians under temporary protection.
Starting Jan. 1, Syrians seeking health services will be required to pay a contribution fee.
According to security bureaucracy assessments, this decision is expected to accelerate returns.
Following the transition to paid health services, the second step will be the gradual removal of temporary protection status.
Once the status is lifted, Syrians in Türkiye will be required to obtain residence permits.
Security sources said strict criteria would apply to residence permit applications.
These requirements include having a registered residence, employment, a valid rental contract, health insurance, and sufficient financial resources.
Authorities will also review the housing conditions listed in rental contracts, and applications may be rejected.
Security sources said residence permits would be difficult to obtain, and those unable to secure permits would be required to leave the country. Otherwise, they would fall into irregular status.
It was also stated that United Nations funds would be used to support returns.
According to the plan, Syrians who wish to return to their country will receive payments from UN funds, and their travel expenses will be covered.
Security sources said the combined measures are expected to accelerate the return process.
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