Turquoise Card
Discover the Benefits of Turquoise Card
We offer advisory services for the application of the Turquoise Card. The foreigners can qualify for a Turquoise card and get working rights in Turkey.
What is Turquoise Card?
In line with the international labor policy; Turquoise Card is given to foreigners according to:
- their education level
- professional experience
- contribution to science and technology
- the impact of their activity or investment in Turkey
- the recommendations of the International Labor Policy Advisory Board
- the procedures and principles determined by the Ministry.
According to the provisions of the legislation, the spouse and dependent children of the Turquoise Card holder foreigner are given a document that proves that they are a relative of the Turquoise Card holder. They can use it as a valid residence document in Turkey. In addition, the Turquoise Card holder benefits from the rights provided by the indefinite work permit.
What are the required documents for Turquoise Card Application?
The required documents for the Turquoise Card Application:
a) Application form
b) A copy of the foreigner’s passport or the document surrounding the passport
c) The relevant public and appropriate certificate of conformity, if required
d) Other documents (the documents that show the qualification of the applicant):
1) For qualified workforce: Diploma, job contract, CV, assignment, experience, language qualifications, etc
2) For investor: Documents showing the investment size, employment, export amount, financial capacity, sectoral information
3) For a scientist or researcher: Diploma, academic career and title, academic studies or license, trademark or patent documents
4) For artists and sportsment: Documents showing the international success and achievements of the applicant
5) For cultural ambassadors: Documents showing the contribution to Turkish culture, artistic works, duration, sustainability, and area of influence
The General Directorate is authorized to change the required documentation, add or change the documents listed above. These changes are to be published on the internet of the Directorate.
A valid residence permit is not required for new Turquoise Card applications in Turkey. A valid stay right with passport is enough.
Who can receive Turquoise Card?
The general conditions for receiving the Turquoise Card are given below:
- Considered as a highly qualified workforce in terms of education level, wage, professional knowledge and experience, contribution to science and technology and similar qualifications
- Considered as a highly qualified investor in terms of investment or export level, size of employment to be provided, contribution to scientific and technological development and similar features
- A scientist or researcher who contributes to scientific and technological development or conducts studies and researches in the fields of science, industry and technology that are considered strategic for the benefit of the country at the international level
- Successful at the international level in terms of cultural, artistic or sports activities
- Contributing to the international recognition or promotion of Turkey or Turkish culture, acting at international level in matters related to Turkey’s national interests
How can I apply for Turquoise Card?
According to our discussion with the General Directorate in July 2022, the applicaiton procedure is not published yet. They are considering creating an online application system. However, the applicaiton procedure and method is not clear yet. We will update this section when the application procedure is shared.
Assessment of Turquoise Card Application
There is a point-based evaluation system. If an applicant has more points than the threshold level, they can the turquoise card.
Benefits and Rights of Turquoise Card
1) Turquoise Card holder will have the rights provided by the indefinite work permit (long-term residence permit). In other words, it benefits from the rights granted to Turkish citizens; except the right to elect, be elected, to enter public office, obligation to do military service.
In addition, according to the provisions of the legislation, the spouse and dependent children of the cardholder foreigner are given a document showing that they are a relative of the cardholder and they can use that paper as residence permit.
2)Thanks to the turquoise card issued in your name, you can work under an employer in Turkey, or you have the right to work independently.
3) Turquoise Card also offers you multiple entry and exit rights to Turkey.
4)Your transactions regarding subjects such as residence, travel, investment, commercial activity, inheritance, movable and immovable property in Turkey are carried out in accordance with the legislation applicable to Turkish citizens.
5)Within the scope of the first paragraph of the 12th article of the Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901, you have the right to apply for Turkish citizenship when you complete the required steps.
Professional Advisory
Gordion Partners is a professional investment and immigration advisory for foreigners in Turkey. Our professional legal and investment team will assist you to complete your procedures according to the latest regulations.
Qualified Foreigners
Turquoise Card is given to qualified foreigners and it gives great benefits for your stay in Turkey. You can contact us to learn more about the Turquoise Card program and to apply for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Turquoise Card Program in Turkey?
The Turquoise Card is a special residency and work authorization program launched by the Turkish government to attract highly skilled foreign professionals, investors, scientists, and entrepreneurs. It offers a permanent work and residence permit, similar to the U.S. Green Card, and provides a streamlined path to long-term settlement in Turkey for qualified individuals.
2. Who is eligible to apply for a Turquoise Card?
Eligibility is open to foreign nationals with exceptional qualifications in areas such as science, technology, business, culture, sports, or investment. Highly skilled professionals, foreign investors who contribute significantly to the Turkish economy, and academics or researchers with international recognition are ideal candidates. Family members (spouse and dependent children) can also apply as dependents under the main applicant.
3. What are the benefits of having a Turquoise Card?
Turquoise Card holders enjoy indefinite residence and work rights in Turkey. They are exempt from many of the administrative restrictions applied to regular residence or work permits. Additionally, their spouse and children are granted companion residence permits, allowing the whole family to live in Turkey. The card also offers a path to full Turkish citizenship after a certain period, under specified conditions.
4. What is the application process for the Turquoise Card?
The application process for turquoise card is not standardized. We will update this section when there is policy update for the turquoise card application.
5. What documents are needed for a Turquoise Card application?
Required documents typically include:
A valid passport
CV and proof of professional experience
Academic diplomas or certificates
Documentation of investments or contributions (if applicable)
Letters of recommendation or international awards (for experts and researchers)
Additional documents may be requested depending on the applicant’s field of expertise or category of application.
6. How long does it take to obtain a Turquoise Card?
We do not have reliable information about the evaluation time of turquoise card application. We will update this section when we have new information.
7. Is it necessary to live in Turkey full-time to maintain the Turquoise Card?
No, there is no full-time residency requirement to keep the Turquoise Card active. However, cardholders must maintain legal status and avoid extended periods of absence that could raise concerns during performance evaluation in the initial 3-year transition period. After the card becomes permanent, the conditions are even more flexible, making it ideal for international professionals with global commitments.
Contact Us
Contact our immigration and investment advisors before investing in Turkey!
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