Mining exploration and licensing in Türkiye are regulated by the General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration (MTA) and the General Directorate of Mining and Petroleum Affairs (MAPEG). Companies or individuals seeking to explore and extract minerals must comply with strict legal procedures, secure the necessary permits, and follow the registration process.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on Mining Exploration and Licensing Procedures in Türkiye, covering mining licenses, application procedures, and regulatory requirements.
1. Legal Requirements for Mining Licenses in Türkiye
To obtain a mining exploration license, applicants must be:
- Turkish citizens or legal entities registered under Turkish law.
- Authorized to conduct mining operations according to the Mining Law No. 3213.
The licensing process begins with company registration at the Chamber of Commerce and submission of an application based on the type of mineral to be explored.
There are six groups of mining licenses based on the type of minerals, categorized as Group I to Group VI.
Classification of Mining License Groups
- Group I: Sand, gravel, and construction materials.
- Group II: Industrial minerals (limestone, granite, basalt, marble, travertine).
- Group III: Salt and gas minerals (excluding geothermal, natural gas, and petroleum).
- Group IV: Metallic and non-metallic minerals (gold, silver, copper, boron, lithium, coal, etc.).
- Group V: Gemstones and semi-precious stones (diamond, sapphire, ruby, quartz).
- Group VI: Radioactive minerals.
2. Step-by-Step Mining License Application Process
1. Initial Application via e-Mining System
All applications must be submitted through the e-Mining System on www.turkiye.gov.tr.
- Log in via e-Government.
- Navigate to e-Mining > Application Transactions.
- Select New Initial Application.
2. Mining Group Selection
- Applicants must select the correct mineral group.
- Only Group II-b and Group IV licenses can be applied for through the online system.
3. Payment of Application Fees
- The initial application fee must be paid via:
- Vakifbank branches, mobile banking, internet banking.
- MAPEG’s financial system, using a National ID or Tax Number.
4. Submission of Exploration License Request
After payment, applicants must:
- Enter mining coordinates and upload a mining area map.
- Submit the Initial Application Commitment Letter.
- Obtain a preliminary exploration license if approved.
5. Obtaining Necessary Permits and Final Review
- If granted mining area rights, the Exploration License Fee must be paid within two months.
- Additional documents such as:
- Environmental Impact Reports
- Financial capability proof
- Technical feasibility study
- Mining exploration project
must be submitted to MAPEG within one year.
3. Special Permit Areas and Compliance Considerations
Some mining areas overlap with special permit zones that require additional government approvals. Applicants must verify permit eligibility before proceeding.
If the Exploration License Fee is not paid, the application is canceled, and the mining area becomes open for new applications.
For large-scale mining projects, an operating license is granted only after submitting a detailed mining operation project prepared by a certified mining engineer.
4. Financial and Environmental Responsibilities in Mining Operations
1. Financial Requirements for Mining Licenses
- Annual mining license fees must be paid to maintain license validity.
- Security deposits are required for environmental rehabilitation after mining activities.
2. Environmental and Safety Regulations
- Mining companies must follow environmental protection laws and land restoration plans.
- Health and safety compliance is mandatory under Türkiye’s Mining Law No. 3213.
Conclusion
Türkiye has a well-structured mining licensing and exploration process to ensure legal compliance, environmental protection, and financial transparency.
For professional assistance in mining license applications, regulatory compliance, and financial advisory, contact us today.