Extradition from Türkiye: How the Process Works

What is extradition?

Extradition (iade / suçluların iadesi) is the formal process by which one state asks another to hand over a person found on its territory — either to face prosecution or to serve a sentence already imposed. In Türkiye, international judicial cooperation in criminal matters, including extradition, is governed primarily by Law No. 6706.

Crucially, extradition is decided through a process — it is not a rubber stamp.

How does extradition work in Türkiye?

Broadly, an extradition matter moves through stages: a request (often preceded by an INTERPOL alert), a possible period of detention while it is considered, a court examination of whether the legal conditions are met, and a final decision — which, depending on the framework, can involve a judicial and then an executive (ministerial) step. Our extradition page explains how we act at each stage.

What can stop or delay an extradition?

There are recognised grounds on which an extradition can be challenged or refused, depending on the facts and the applicable framework — for example issues with the nature of the alleged offence, the risk to the person, procedural defects, or other protections recognised in law. Whether any apply is fact-specific and technical. We never promise a result; we examine the request and tell you honestly whether there are real grounds to oppose it.

Extradition and INTERPOL Red Notices

People often confuse the two. An INTERPOL Red Notice is a request to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending an extradition request — it is not extradition itself, and not an arrest warrant. A Red Notice can be what starts the chain, but the extradition is a separate, structured process that follows. Our guide on the INTERPOL Red Notice and travel covers that side.

Your rights in the process

From the first moment, in general terms, you have the right:

• To a lawyer — and to have one act for you throughout.
• To remain silent — you do not have to give a statement.
• To an interpreter if you do not understand Turkish.
• To be informed of the basis for any detention.
• To have your consulate notified in appropriate cases.

These matter from the very start, because early steps can shape the whole process.

What to do if you're detained on an extradition matter

Stay calm and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not give a statement or sign anything you do not fully understand — ask for an interpreter. If a family member is detained, find out where they are and on what basis, and get legal help quickly. Because extradition matters move through fixed stages with their own timing, acting early is far more effective than reacting late.

How can a lawyer help?

A lawyer can examine the request and the basis for any detention, explain the realistic options honestly, represent you at the court examination, and — where there are grounds — argue against surrender and for release through the proper route. Where an INTERPOL notice is involved, there may also be steps to challenge that. We never promise an outcome; we act to protect your rights and tell you what can realistically be done.