Türkiye introduces ‘pioneer migrant model’ for voluntary Syrian returns: Interior Minister Yerlikaya

Türkiye has announced a structured initiative named the “Pioneer Migrant Model” to facilitate the voluntary return of Syrian refugees following the anticipated normalization in Syria, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya revealed during a televised interview on Turkish media outlet TGRT Haber.

The program aims to ensure an organized return process for Syrian refugees, involving thorough preparation, oversight, and international monitoring.

“We presented the ‘Pioneer Migrant Model’ to our President, and he immediately approved it. The idea is for one family member—preferably the head of the family or a designated representative—to travel first, make preparations, and then assist others in relocating,” Yerlikaya explained.

Structured process for voluntary return

Under the new plan, refugees will need to apply through Türkiye’s immigration administration website to receive an “Exit-Entry Document.” This document will allow individuals to cross designated border gates—such as Cobanbey in Kilis or Zeytin Dali in Hatay—up to three times starting July 1.

“At the final exit, fingerprints are checked, identity cards are collected, and the returnee proceeds with the process monitored by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR),” Yerlikaya noted.

Returnees are required to sign a “Voluntary Return Form” in their native language on camera, stating their willingness to return. UNHCR officials will then conduct interviews to verify that the return is genuinely voluntary.

Temporary travel permits and border procedures

Türkiye has also introduced a temporary travel permit system for refugees planning their return. Applications can be submitted to the Provincial Migration Directorate, where identification and fingerprint verification are performed.

“We issue a travel permit valid for 15 days. Returnees can choose their preferred border crossing, undergo customs clearance, and have their identity confirmed before exiting,” Yerlikaya explained.

Upon crossing the border, returnees will once again be interviewed under UNHCR supervision to ensure their decision was made voluntarily and without coercion.

Future visa system between Türkiye and Syria

Following stabilization in Syria, Türkiye plans to implement a visa system for border crossings, regulating movement between the two countries.

According to the Directorate General of Migration Management, there are currently 4.16 million legally residing foreigners in Türkiye, with 2.9 million being Syrian nationals.

The majority of Syrians reside in Istanbul, followed by Gaziantep, Sanliurfa, Hatay, and Adana. Approximately 30% of Syrians in Türkiye were born within the country, and most originate from Aleppo.

‘We stopped 6 million refugees through military operations’

“We aim to stop irregular migration at its source. With the Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch, Peace Spring and Spring Shield operations in northern Syria, we stopped the refugees coming towards us. Together with AFAD and the Turkish army, we have kept nearly 6 million people in this region.” Yerlikaya said.

“768,912 Syrians have left voluntarily and safely since 2017. More than 11,000 Syrians returned in the first 11 months of the year.” he added.

“The opposition’s claim that ‘returns have slowed down’ is untrue. 30,663 Syrians have returned to their country since December 8. We are now in the middle of winter. Returns will accelerate as schools close and the needs there are met.” Yerlikaya concluded.