New Statistics on Foreign Residency in Giresun; City Ranks Second in the Region

The Turkish Presidency of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi) provided detailed information on the distribution of foreign nationals with residence permits across the country in its latest report published on July 7, 2026. Based on this data, Giresun province has become a point of interest for foreign residents in the Black Sea region [1].

Details of Foreign National Statistics in Giresun According to official statistics, currently 1,878 foreign nationals reside in Giresun province with legal residence permits. This figure indicates the demographic dynamics in this coastal province. Although the total number of foreigners with residence permits across Turkey reaches 1,250,343, the share of smaller cities with high quality of life, such as Giresun, is increasing [1][2].

Regional Comparison: Giresun Beyond Its Neighbors In the regional analysis of the Eastern Black Sea, the city of Trabzon remains in first place in attracting foreign nationals with 7,013 people. However, Giresun, with 1,878 people, has managed to surpass its other neighbors and secure the second rank in the region. The statistics for other neighboring provinces are as follows: - Ordu: 1,561 people - Rize: 1,318 people - Gümüşhane: 1,089 people - Artvin: 528 people [2].

These statistics show that Giresun has been more attractive than cities like Ordu and Rize for migrants seeking legal residence in Turkey.

Legal Changes and Residence Costs in 2026 The release of these statistics comes as the new residence permit fee system in Turkey has been implemented since May 1, 2026. According to the new regulations, the costs of obtaining residence for many countries have increased, such that the cost of a one-year tourist residence has reached approximately 28,467 Lira [3]. Despite these cost increases and the tightening of document verification and residence verification processes, Giresun province continues to see a steady presence of foreign nationals, mainly including Giresun University students, real estate investors, and families.

Factors of Giresun's Attractiveness for Foreigners Experts believe that lower living costs compared to metropolises like Istanbul, pristine nature, and high social security are the main reasons for choosing Giresun by foreign nationals. Additionally, the facilitation of the document submission process through notary offices, which was implemented across Turkey last year, has improved access for applicants in smaller provinces [1].