WHAT ARE THE RIGHTS OF MY CHILD WHO HAS A TURKISH FATHER?

murat tetik
Dec 13, 2024
2 min read

If your child has a Turkish father, they have specific rights under Turkish law, regardless of your or the father's marital status. Here is an overview of those rights:

1. Citizenship Rights

Your child is eligible for Turkish citizenship if the father is Turkish, even if they are born outside Turkey.
You can apply for Turkish citizenship for the child through the nearest Turkish consulate or civil registry office.

2. Legal Paternity

If the father acknowledges the child, a paternity declaration can be made at the civil registry.
If the father denies paternity, a paternity lawsuit can establish legal recognition through DNA testing. Once established, the child will gain full legal rights associated with being the father's offspring.

3. Custody and Parental Rights

Custody is generally granted to the mother if the parents are unmarried, unless the court decides otherwise.
The father can request visitation rights or joint custody if legally recognized as the father.

4. Financial Support

The father is legally obligated to provide child support (nafaka) for the child’s needs, including housing, education, healthcare, and basic living expenses.
If the father refuses, you can file a lawsuit to secure financial support.

5. Inheritance Rights

A child with a legally recognized Turkish father is entitled to inheritance rights, including property, assets, and financial benefits.
These rights are the same as those of any other legitimate child of the father.

6. Healthcare and Social Services

A child with Turkish citizenship is eligible for free or subsidized healthcare under Turkey’s national health system.
They may also benefit from educational and social welfare programs available to Turkish citizens.

7. Protection of the Child’s Interests

Turkish law prioritizes the best interests of the child in matters of custody, support, and inheritance.
If disputes arise, Turkish courts typically act to ensure the child’s welfare and rights are protected.

Steps to Ensure Your Child’s Rights

Establish Paternity
- If the father voluntarily acknowledges paternity, register this with the civil authorities.
- If not, file a paternity lawsuit to establish the legal relationship.
Apply for Citizenship
- If the child is not automatically registered as Turkish, apply through the father’s registry or consulate.
Secure Financial Support
- File for child support if the father does not voluntarily contribute to the child’s needs.
Consult a Family Lawyer
- A lawyer can guide you through legal processes like paternity, support, custody, and inheritance claims.