As of 2024, Turkey has officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa program—offering remote workers a new legal pathway to live and work in the country while being employed abroad. This initiative targets global freelancers, software developers, designers, marketers, and startup founders who wish to legally stay in Turkey without entering the traditional work permit system.
Our Turkish Law Firm provides full legal support for digital nomads seeking to apply for this visa and convert it into a residence permit in Turkey. As English Speaking Turkish Lawyers with experience in cross-border immigration and tech-based clients, we simplify the application process and ensure full compliance with Turkish laws and immigration regulations.
What Is the Digital Nomad Visa in Turkey?
The Digital Nomad Visa in Turkey is a newly established visa category launched by the Directorate General of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi) in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. It allows foreign nationals to:
- Live in Turkey legally while working for a foreign employer or client
- Apply remotely via a dedicated digital portal
- Stay in the country for up to 12 months, extendable
This visa is separate from a work permit and is tailored for independent professionals or employees of foreign-registered companies. Our Turkish Law Firm helps clients navigate between digital nomad status and residence permit conversion.
Who Can Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa?
Applicants must meet specific criteria set by Turkish authorities. Eligibility includes:
- Being a citizen of an eligible country (EU, US, UK, Canada, etc.)
- Age between 21 and 55
- Having a valid passport for at least 6 months
- Proof of remote employment or freelancing outside Turkey
- Monthly income of at least $3,000 or annual income of $36,000
- Valid health insurance covering Turkey
As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for digital migration law, we offer country-specific guidance and help document income, contracts, and corporate letters required for the visa.
Required Documents for the Application
The Digital Nomad Visa application requires:
- Valid biometric passport copy
- Proof of remote work (employment contract or freelance portfolio)
- Bank statements showing stable monthly income
- Health insurance valid in Turkey
- Profile photo and completed online application form
Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers assist in preparing each document to align with the standards of Göç İdaresi and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Turkey
The application process for the Digital Nomad Visa in Turkey is entirely online and consists of three main phases:
- Submit an application via the official platform: digitalnomads.goturkiye.com
- Upload documents and receive a Digital Nomad Identification Certificate
- Visit the nearest Turkish consulate to obtain your visa based on that certificate
Our Turkish Law Firm monitors each step, uploads your files on your behalf, communicates with consular staff, and prepares legal memos in case of rejections or clarification requests.
Can a Digital Nomad Apply for a Residence Permit in Turkey?
Yes. After entering Turkey with a digital nomad visa, applicants may apply for a short-term residence permit (Kısa Dönem İkamet İzni) valid for up to one year and extendable. This offers:
- Legal residence without converting to a work permit
- Tax and banking rights after registration with Nüfus Müdürlüğü
- Potential future eligibility for long-term residence or citizenship
Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers handle all residence permit filing steps, including notarized lease contracts, biometric appointments, and online Göç İdaresi procedures.
Common Mistakes and Rejections
While the Digital Nomad Visa is streamlined, we’ve seen frequent mistakes that cause rejection:
- Unclear job status (not clearly freelance or remote employment)
- Bank statements below income threshold
- Inconsistent tax registration across jurisdictions
- Health insurance not meeting Turkish standards
- Expired passports or unclear travel history
As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for digital residency clients, we proactively review all submissions and avoid mistakes that could result in blacklisting or delays.
Internal Legal Resources
- Residence Permit in Turkey
- Company Formation in Turkey
- Opening a Bank Account
- Income Tax for Foreigners in Turkey
- Property-Based Residence in Turkey
FAQ: Digital Nomad Visa and Remote Work in Turkey
- Q1: Can I work for a Turkish company with a Digital Nomad Visa?
No. The visa is only valid for remote work with a foreign employer or self-employment abroad. - Q2: Is this a work permit?
No. It is a new category of visa that enables remote working while residing in Turkey, without formal employment inside the country. - Q3: How long does the process take?
From application to consular visa issuance, it takes approximately 2–4 weeks depending on consulate workload. - Q4: What happens if my income drops?
Visa or residence renewal may be denied if you cannot prove minimum required income during renewal. - Q5: Can I bring family members?
Currently, the program is individual. However, family reunification may be explored under standard residence permits. - Q6: Can I convert this to a citizenship path?
Yes. Long-term legal stay, clean immigration record, and residence continuity may lead to citizenship application in the future. - Q7: Is health insurance mandatory?
Yes. It must meet Turkish coverage standards and be valid for at least one year. - Q8: Can I stay after the visa expires?
No. Overstaying leads to fines and possible re-entry bans. Timely residence permit applications are critical. - Q9: Can a Turkish Law Firm assist me from abroad?
Yes. We offer remote consultation, document preparation, and full process coordination until you receive your visa. - Q10: Do I have to pay tax in Turkey?
Generally no, unless you receive Turkish-source income or stay more than 183 days and trigger tax residency.
Start Your Remote Life in Turkey with Legal Support from a Turkish Law Firm
Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or startup founder, Turkey’s Digital Nomad Visa offers a modern and flexible path to legal residence. But to avoid rejections, blacklists, or lost time, professional legal support is essential. At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, we streamline the entire process with precise legal documentation, consulate communication, and local integration.
Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers are trusted by digital nomads worldwide. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for residence, visa, and immigration strategy, we help you settle in legally, securely, and with peace of mind.