Over 25,000 Syrians Return from Turkey in 15 Days as Departures Surge Sevenfold

Dec 24, 2024, 08:12 AM

Turkey's Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that over 25,000 Syrians have returned to their country from Turkey in the past 15 days, marking a sevenfold increase. Speaking at the Anadolu Agency Editors' Desk, Yerlikaya stated that since 2017, 763,443 Syrians have voluntarily, safely, honorably, and regularly returned to Syria. He highlighted new measures to facilitate further returns, including allowing returning Syrians to take all their household and business belongings, as well as their vehicles. Those wishing to return can apply via the Immigration Administration's website and receive same-day appointments. Additionally, under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's directive, from January 1 to July 1, 2025, one person from each Syrian family will be granted three entry-exit rights to prepare for their family's return. Turkey plans to establish Immigration Administration offices in its Embassy in Damascus and Consulate in Aleppo to assist Syrians in utilizing their Turkish records back home. Currently, Turkey hosts 4,164,472 foreigners with legal residence rights, including 2,920,119 under temporary protection.