Obtaining a mining licence is a sequence of connected stages: identifying the site to be invested in, assessing the area from a technical and legal perspective, submitting the licence application, and completing the required legal obligations. In Türkiye, mining licensing procedures are conducted by the General Directorate of Mining and Petroleum Affairs (MAPEG).
1. Site Identification and Preliminary Review
The mineral group, map sheet and coordinates of the area to be licensed are determined. The site is checked for suitability against existing licences, tender areas, restricted and prohibited zones, and other limitations set out in the legislation. The geological structure and mining potential of the area are also subject to a preliminary assessment.
2. Initial Application
For an area found to be suitable, the initial application is submitted through the e-Maden system. The application must include the mineral group, map sheet and coordinate details, and satisfy the relevant application conditions. Following MAPEG's assessment, it is decided whether the site will be licensed through initial application or by tender.
3. Licensing and Permitting
Depending on the licensing method, the required financial and administrative obligations are fulfilled, the relevant documents are prepared and the application process is completed. Depending on the nature of the activity, the permits and institutional opinions required under Article 7 of Mining Law No. 3213 are also evaluated. Once all conditions have been met, the mining licence is issued by MAPEG.
4. Exploration and Operating Stage
Obtaining a mining licence does not mean that production can begin immediately. Depending on the nature of the licence, exploration activities are carried out and the required technical reports are prepared.
For sites where operation is planned, an operating project must be prepared, the necessary permits obtained and the operating permit process completed. At this stage, feasibility and resource/reserve studies that demonstrate the economic viability of the site also become important.
Our Services During the Licensing Process
As a YTK, we provide the following services at the various stages of the licensing process:
- Site and licence suitability checks
- Mineral group, map sheet and coordinate assessments
- Checks of existing licences and restricted areas
- e-Maden application procedures
- Preparation of technical reports and documents
- Follow-up of processes conducted with the relevant institutions and organizations
- Technical consultancy for post-licence exploration and operating processes
From identifying the site to obtaining the licence and managing the technical processes that follow, our expert team delivers the consultancy services that mining activities require.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is a mining licence application submitted?
Group I(a) minerals are applied for through the special provincial administrations, while all other groups are applied for through the General Directorate of Mining and Petroleum Affairs (MAPEG) via the e-Maden system.
Can an individual obtain a mining licence?
Applications may be made by individuals or legal entities; however, technical reports and projects can only be prepared through Authorized Legal Entities (YTK).
Is the transition from an exploration licence to an operating licence mandatory?
An operating licence is mandatory in order to actually operate a site. An exploration licence only grants the authority to carry out research and determine reserves; it does not grant production rights.