Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide for Remote Workers
Want to Live in Türkiye? Looking to Relocate to Türkiye? Here’s How to Apply for the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa!
If you’re a remote worker or freelancer dreaming of living in a beautiful country with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes, Türkiye offers the perfect opportunity with its new Digital Nomad Visa for Turkey. Whether you’re a freelancer, remote employee, or entrepreneur, this visa allows you to work remotely while enjoying everything Türkiye has to offer.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa, including the application process, requirements, and some frequently asked questions.
Best travel destinations and tips for Turkey: Travel To Turkey
What is the Digital Nomad Visa?
Announced on April 15, 2024, the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to live and work in Türkiye for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. This visa is designed to attract digital nomads to various parts of Türkiye, including popular destinations like Antalya, Marmaris, Bodrum, and Fethiye.
With its affordable cost of living, breathtaking scenery, and welcoming culture, Türkiye is quickly becoming a top destination for digital nomads worldwide.
How to Apply for the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa: Step-by-Step Process
Who Can Apply for the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa?
The Digital Nomad Visa is available to citizens of select countries, including:
Australia, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, UK, USA
If you are not a citizen of one of these countries, you are currently ineligible to apply for this visa.
Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
To qualify for the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond the last day of your intended stay in Türkiye and have at least one blank page.
- Work Remotely: You must work remotely for a company or clients located outside of Türkiye. Freelancers, employees, and business owners are all eligible.
- Minimum Income: You must earn at least $36,000 USD annually (approximately $3,000 USD per month).
- University Degree: A valid diploma or university degree is required.
- Age: You must be between the ages of 21 and 55.
- Clean Criminal Record: You must present a certificate of good conduct.
- Health Insurance: International health insurance with a minimum coverage of $30,000 USD is mandatory.
Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa Process
Step 1: Pre-Application
Start your pre-application on GoTürkiye’s Digital Nomad website. After completing the form, you will receive a pre-application form with a QR code, which you will need for the next steps.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You will need the following documents to proceed:
- Passport (with 60 days validity beyond your stay)
- University diploma and copy
- Proof of remote work (employee contracts or letters from clients)
- Bank statements proving income
- Certificate of good conduct
- Proof of accommodation in Türkiye
- Health insurance details
- Flight reservation
Step 3: Visa Application and Appointment
Complete the official visa application on www.visa.gov.tr and upload all required documents. Once submitted, schedule an appointment at the nearest Turkish consulate or embassy for an in-person interview. Bring hard copies of all your documents.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
After the interview, visa processing can take up to 30 days. Make sure to plan accordingly. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a one-year Digital Nomad Visa, with the option to renew.
Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa Tax Implications
One of the most common concerns for digital nomads is tax obligations. Here’s what you need to know about taxes while living in Türkiye:
- Remote Employees: You will not be taxed on your salary in Türkiye if your income is deposited into a foreign bank account or a Turkish account in USD. However, if you’re paid in Turkish Lira, you may be subject to local taxes.
- Freelancers: Freelancers must register a business in Türkiye and may be subject to local income taxes. However, Türkiye offers significant tax breaks for those working in IT services, with potential discounts of 50% to 80%. Entrepreneurs under 29 years old can also benefit from additional tax incentives.
Living as a Digital Nomad in Türkiye
Popular cities like Antalya, Istanbul, and Cappadocia are already hotspots for digital nomads. With an average cost of living around $1,200 USD per month, Türkiye offers an affordable lifestyle with access to high-quality amenities. Türkiye is also a great option for those who frequently travel across Europe, as it allows digital nomads to spend time outside the Schengen Area.
FAQs: Turkey Digital Nomad Visa
1. Can I apply for the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa if I’m already in Türkiye on a tourist visa? Yes, if you are already in Türkiye as a tourist, you can skip visiting a consulate and apply directly for a one-year residence permit after obtaining the Digital Nomad Identification Certificate.
2. Can I Work Remotely on a Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa?: Yes, the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa allows you to work remotely for an employer or clients located outside of Turkey. This visa is specifically designed for digital nomads who work online and wish to live in Turkey.
3. What happens if my visa application is denied? If your application is denied, you may reapply with updated documents or consult the consulate for guidance on improving your application.
4. Do I need to speak Turkish to live in Türkiye? While Turkish is the official language, many digital nomads live comfortably in Türkiye without fluency. However, learning basic Turkish can improve your experience and help you integrate more easily.
5. Will I be taxed on my foreign income in Türkiye? If you are paid in USD or into a foreign bank account, you will not be taxed on your income. Freelancers, however, may be subject to local taxes.
6. Can I bring my family with me on a Digital Nomad Visa? Yes, family members can apply for dependent visas, allowing them to live in Türkiye with you for the duration of your Digital Nomad Visa.
For more information and updates on the Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa, visit the official website.
The Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa opens up an exciting opportunity for remote workers to experience one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world. With this guide, you now have all the information you need to start your journey toward living and working in Türkiye!
