What Is an Entry-Ban Code, How Do You Find It Out and Can It Be Lifted?

Published: 10 September 2026 · Reading time approximately 7 minutes

When a restriction is placed on a foreign national's entry to Türkiye, that restriction is recorded in the migration records as an entry-ban (restriction) code . The code shows on what ground the ban was imposed and, in most cases, how long it will last . That is why the first step is always the same: find out the code.

Petitions filed without knowing the code usually come to nothing. A petition that simply says “lift my ban” cannot be assessed, because it is not clear which record it is directed against.

Commonly encountered entry-ban codes

The list below covers some of the codes most often encountered in practice. The code system may be updated in line with administrative practice; the list is not exhaustive, and what a code means in your own file can only be confirmed from the official record.

Codes linked to overstaying

• Ç-101 — overstay of between 10 days and 3 months; usually a 3-month entry ban
• Ç-102 — overstay of between 3 and 6 months; usually a 6-month ban
• Ç-103 — overstay of between 6 months and 1 year; usually a 1-year ban
• Ç-104 — overstay of between 1 and 2 years; usually a 2-year ban
• Ç-105 — overstay of more than 2 years; a ban that can run up to five years

Other commonly seen codes

• Ç-113 — Unlawful entry or exit
• Ç-114 — Foreign nationals subject to criminal proceedings
• Ç-117 — Working without a permit (undeclared work)
• Ç-118 — Those found to be carrying a communicable disease
• Ç-141 — International security grounds
• Ç-151 — Records linked to human trafficking
• Codes beginning with V — administrative restrictions relating to visas and residence permits
• Codes beginning with G — records based on general security grounds

The letter and the number of the code directly affect the route of appeal and the realistic prospects of success. A code arising from an overstay and one based on security grounds cannot be handled the same way.

How do you find out an entry-ban code?

1. 1

   Application to the Migration Management authority

   The record is requested by a written application to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management, made in person or through a representative.

2. 2

   Following it up by power of attorney

   If the foreign national is abroad, it can be found out through a representative in Türkiye. The power of attorney must be apostilled and carry a sworn translation.

3. 3

   Through the consulate

   Where a visa application is refused, the reason given can indicate the nature of the record.

4. 4

   Border-crossing document

   The document handed over on departure or on refusal of entry may state the code. Keeping this document shortens the later process considerably.

Can an entry-ban code be lifted?

Some codes lapse on their own, some respond to an application, and some yield a result only through the courts:

• Fixed-term bans: as a rule they end when the term expires. But if an administrative fine remains unpaid, the record may not be closed.
• Administrative application: a reasoned application can be made to the Presidency of Migration Management for the ban to be lifted or its term shortened.
• Legitimate grounds: circumstances such as marriage to a Turkish citizen, having a child in Türkiye, a need for medical treatment or a substantial investment may be taken into account in the assessment.
• Administrative lawsuit: for refused applications and deportation decisions, an action before the administrative court is available.

The period for challenging a deportation decision is short. Once it is missed, how strong your case is on the merits no longer matters. Start counting on the day the decision reaches you.

Common mistakes

• Filing a generic petition without finding out the code
• Buying a ticket on the assumption that “the term has expired” and being turned back at the border
• Ignoring an unpaid administrative fine
• Missing the appeal and litigation deadlines
• Trying to enter on a different passport — which is in itself grounds for a fresh sanction

For identifying your record and applying to have it lifted you can look at our entry ban and restriction code page, and for challenging a deportation decision at our deportation removal consultancy page. If the ban stems from an overstay, we suggest you first read our visa violation penalty article.