If you're a tech professional or entrepreneur thinking about relocating, Turkey's new Tech Visa could simplify your move. This program provides a three-year work permit for those looking to work in tech or launch start-ups in Turkey.
Mehmet Fatih Kacir, Minister of Industry and Technology, said: “The initiative aims to attract foreigners with exceptional technological expertise as well as pioneering business models grounded in innovation.”
What is Turkey's Tech Visa?
The Tech Visa is a new special visa program by Turkey, designed for foreign professionals, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. The visa supports Turkey’s goals of advancing its digital transformation and helping tech-driven industries in the country, by inviting talented and qualified individuals from around the world to Turkey.
What does the Tech Visa offer?
- Fast processing times reducing paperwork.
- A three-year Work Permit for the holder.
- Simplified Residence Permit for families.
- Income Tax and Corporate Tax exemptions.
- Access to free comprehensive healthcare.
- Access to office space in technoparks.
- Support and project financing available.
- Mentoring and Consultancy services.
Who is Eligible for the Turkey Tech Visa?
The Turkiye Tech Visa is available to a wide range of applicants, particularly those with tech backgrounds or tech-driven business start-up ideas. The primary eligibility requirements are as follows:
- Professionals in Tech Fields: Engineers, software developers, IT specialists, AI experts, data scientists, Blockchain experts, and those with careers in tech.
- Entrepreneurs & Start-ups: Individuals with business ideas, particularly those with a big tech emphasis.
- Freelancers & Digital Nomads: People who have the ability to work remotely or those involved in the digital industry.
Application Process for Turkey’s Tech Visa
Step 1: Initial Eligibility Check
Applicants must check whether they meet requirements, including proof of professional background in technology. This might involve securing a job offer from a Turkish company in the tech sector or creating a business plan for a start-up.
Step 2: Online Application Submission
Visit the official Turkey Tech Visa portal, fill out the online application and submit the required documents, including:
- Passport details with at least 6+ months of validity.
- Proof of professional qualifications and resume / CV.
- Proof of employment offer or start-up business plan.
- Evidence of past or current tech-related work history.
Step 3: Document Verification and Interview
Upon a successful review of your application, you may be asked to attend a virtual or in-person interview at the nearest Turkish consulate or embassy close to you.
Step 4: Approval and Entry to Turkey
Applications are normally processed within a few weeks. Successful applicants receive a visa that allows them to live and work in Turkey.
Step 5: Obtain Turkish Residence Permit
Once you have arrived in Turkey, you must apply for a Turkish Residence Permit at the Directorate General of Migration Management.
Benefits of the Turkey Tech Visa
- Extended Work Permit: A three-year work permit allows tech workers and start-up owners to focus on long-term projects without needing to renew a visa every year.
- Tax Exemptions: Those with a Tech Visa benefit from several tax incentives, such as VAT, corporate tax, and customs tax exemptions.
- Healthcare Access: Employees who are working with a Tech Visa are covered by Turkey’s healthcare system.
- Consultancy Service: The Tech Visa program offers a consultancy service to help start-ups with legal, tax, and logistical challenges of starting a new business in Turkey.
- Tech Visa Fund: Start-ups registered within the program can apply for financial support and capital for product development, scaling, or expansion.
- Government Support: Start-ups will have access to various forms of assistance from the Turkish government, including financing, branding, and promotion.
- Access to Growing Markets: Turkey is the gateway to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, providing access to diverse markets.
- Cost of Living Advantage: Turkey’s cost of living is significantly lower than most countries, allowing start-ups and freelancers to stretch budgets further.
Why invest in Turkey’s tech industry?
100,000 tech start-ups by 2030
By the end of 2030, Turkey has ambitions to create 100,000 tech-driven start-up companies. Not only that, at least 100 of them are expected to be worth over $1 billion.
World’s largest technopark
Turkey is also currently developing the largest technopark in the world at Istanbul’s Airport. This technopark, named as Terminal Istanbul, is set to establish the country as a key hub for future tech entrepreneurship.
E-commerce and Digital Platforms
Turkey has a thriving e-commerce market that is driven by renowned companies including Yemeksepeti, Trendyol, and Hepsiburada.
Fintech and Blockchain Technology
Turkey has embraced blockchain technology in multiple sectors and its fintech sector is booming with numerous start-ups already developing modern solutions.
Young and Dynamic Population
Turkey has the largest and youngest population in Europe. A country of over 85 million people, the median age is only 32.
Top 10 globally for Higher Education
Turkey ranks inside the top 10 in the world when it comes to number of students at university with over 8 million. Each year, 1.2 million students graduate from Turkish universities.
Turkey’s Tech Visa FAQs
Can I bring my family under the Tech Visa?
Yes, the Tech Visa allows holders to bring immediate family members, with spouses and children eligible for residency.
What is the Cost of the Visa?
Details about the cost of the Tech Visa are yet to emerge. Please check the government website for more detailed information as the program continues to develop.
Can I switch jobs within Turkey under this visa?
Yes, visa holders can work with different tech companies, but each job change may need notification or, in some cases, approval.
Can I obtain Turkish Citizenship?
It is not yet known of visa holders will have a pathway to citizenship. However, Turkey does offer a Citizenship by Investment Program.
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