How to Join the Turkey Military
The realistic, step-by-step process for enlistment in the Turkey armed forces — from first application to your first day of basic training.
- ▸5 main stages
- ▸~8 weeks application to training
- ▸Minimum age: 20 years
- ▸Starting pay: TRY 2,000/month
The application process at a glance
Joining the Turkey military takes approximately 8 weeks from initial application to starting basic training. The process has 5 main stages. Be patient — bureaucratic delays at any stage are normal.
Step-by-step recruitment stages
- Step 1: Yoklama (registration/medical) in year man turns 20
- Step 2: Celp dönemi (call-up period) assignment
- Step 3: Choice: standard 6-month service, bedelli (paid 1-month), or volunteer NCO/officer track
- Step 4: Sevk (deployment to assigned training unit)
- Step 5: Report to acemi birliği (basic training unit)
Age, citizenship, and basic qualifications
You must be at least 20 years old to enlist (and no older than 41). Turkey citizenship is required. Medical and physical fitness standards apply at the screening stage.
What happens after you sign
After contract signing, you are scheduled for basic training (approximately 4 weeks). Initial pay starts at roughly TRY 2,000/month as a Er (Conscript Private). Your specific MOS / trade / specialty determines follow-on training duration and assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to join the Turkey military?
Typically 8 weeks from application to starting basic training, though delays are common.
Do I need Turkey citizenship to join?
Yes — Turkey citizenship is required for military service.
What test do I have to pass to enlist?
Each country uses different aptitude testing — the recruiter's office or career center will administer it. See specific guidance per branch.
- MSB.gov.tr conscription process; e-Devlet askerlik services
- Askerlik Kanunu (Law No. 1111 / Law No. 7179); MSB.gov.tr
- MSB.gov.tr conscript pay; Hürriyet Daily News 2019
- Askerlik Kanunu; Istanbul Lawyer Firm analysis of military service for dual citizens