Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya: “Türkiye stands by our Syrian brothers and sisters in the voluntary return process as well.”
07.09.2025
“AS OF 8 DECEMBER 2024, 474,018 OF OUR SYRIAN BROTHERS AND SISTERS HAVE RETURNED TO THEIR COUNTRY”
Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya in his statement regarding the voluntary return process of Syrians, emphasized that Türkiye always stands by its Syrian brothers and sisters. Minister Yerlikaya said, “Türkiye stands by our Syrian brothers and sisters in the voluntary return process, just as it did yesterday. Following the developments in Syria after 8 December 2024, voluntary returns gained momentum. As of 8 December 2024, 474,018 Syrian brothers and sisters have returned to their country. The number of Syrians who have voluntarily returned since 2016 has reached 1,213,620. Our country carries out its migration management under the leadership of our President of the Republic Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, setting an exemplary model to the world with its historical experience, humanitarian approach and rational perspective. We continue to carry out the voluntary return transactions of our Syrian brothers and sisters with great sensitivity under the coordination of the Presidency of Migration Management.
Voluntary Return Process
The voluntary, safe, dignified and orderly return of Syrians under temporary protection in Türkiye to their country is increasing day by day. At the border gates where the longing for the homeland comes to an end, both sadness and joy are experienced together.
The voluntary return process is being carried out under the coordination of the Presidency of Migration Management of the Ministry of Interior and in cooperation with all relevant institutions. From registration transactions to transportation, including the passage of personal belongings and vehicles, every detail is planned in a manner befitting human dignity; despite the high volume, all transactions are carried out meticulously and in an orderly manner.
Application and Transactions
Syrians who wish to return can make an appointment for the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in the province where they reside via randevu.goc.gov.tr. Appointments are given on the same day, and the necessary information is recorded during the application process and a Voluntary Return Form is prepared. A Road Permit Document is issued to ensure that they can safely reach the border gate where they will exit, and consent documents are also prepared when necessary.
Upon reaching the border gate, identity verification and fingerprinting transactions are carried out. Persons whose transactions have been completed can exit safely after customs checks. During this process, necessary facilities are provided for those who want to return voluntarily to take their belongings and vehicles with them.
Border Gates and Airports
Border Gates and Airports
Within the scope of voluntary returns, Syrians can use the Cilvegözü, Yayladağı and Zeytindalı border gates in Hatay, as well as the Öncüpınar and Çobanbey border gates in Kilis, the Akçakale and Ceylanpınar border gates in Şanlıurfa, and the Karkamış border gate in Gaziantep. Additionally, returns are also being carried out through Ankara and İstanbul airports.
“Türkiye dün olduğu gibi gönüllü geri dönüş sürecinde de Suriyeli kardeşlerimizin yanında”
— Ali Yerlikaya (@AliYerlikaya) September 7, 2025
8 Aralık 2024 sonrasında Suriye'de meydana gelen gelişmelerin ardından gönüllü geri dönüşler hız kazandı.
📌 8 Aralık 2024 tarihi sonrasında toplam 474 bin 18 Suriyeli kardeşimiz… pic.twitter.com/j6tWK5hNIP
© 2025 Presidency of Migration Management