The Ultimate Guide to Understanding the Turquoise Card

What is the Turkish Turquoise Card?

The Turquoise Card is a special residency and work permit system in Turkey. It grants foreigners the right to work and live in the country indefinitely. This card aims to attract high-skilled workers, investors, scientists, and artists to contribute to the Turkish economy and culture.

The card provides the same rights to the holder's spouse and dependent children. It functions as a high-level permit that simplifies the legal process for international talent. Holders can work as employees or start their own businesses as independent employers.

Key Benefits of the Turquoise Card

The Turquoise Card offers several advantages over standard work permits. One of the primary benefits is the right to multiple entries and exits. Cardholders do not need to apply for a visa every time they travel to Turkey.

Regarding legal transactions, holders enjoy many of the same rights as Turkish citizens. This includes matters related to:

• Travel and residency.
• Investment and commercial activities.
• Inheritance and property acquisition.
• Acquiring or renouncing movable and immovable assets.

These activities are governed by the same legislation that applies to Turkish citizens, ensuring a stable legal environment for cardholders.

Rights and Obligations of Cardholders

While the Turquoise Card offers extensive freedom, it also carries specific conditions. Cardholders must understand their legal standing in Turkey.

Exemptions and Restrictions

• Military Service: Holders are exempt from the mandatory military service required of Turkish citizens.
• Political Rights: Holders cannot vote, run for office, or hold public positions.
• Social Security: Social security rights are reserved. Use of these rights is subject to relevant Turkish legislation.

If a specific law requires Turkish citizenship for a certain right or obligation, the Turquoise Card holder cannot benefit from it. Additionally, holders must submit all documents requested by the Ministry during the transition period on time.

The Three-Year Transition Period

The Turquoise Card is initially granted for a three-year transition period. During this time, the Ministry monitors the holder's activities. An assigned expert examines whether the holder is fulfilling their commitments and contributing to the economy as planned.

To make the card permanent, the holder must apply to remove the transition period status. This application must be submitted within 180 days before the three-year period expires. If you do not apply before the deadline, the card becomes invalid. If the Ministry approves the request after monitoring the activities, the card becomes indefinite.

Turquoise Card for Family Members

The spouse and minor children of a Turquoise Card holder can receive a "Relative Card." This card is issued upon request and serves as a valid residence permit. It remains valid as long as the primary holder's Turquoise Card is active. If the primary card is canceled, the family's cards are also revoked.

Path to Turkish Citizenship

Under Article 12 of the Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901, Turquoise Card holders and their relatives may be eligible for citizenship. The Ministry may offer citizenship once the transition period is successfully completed. The applicant must not pose a threat to national security or public order. The removal of the transition period registration is a prerequisite for this process.

Grounds for Cancellation of the Turquoise Card

The Ministry can cancel the Turquoise Card without the owner's request under specific circumstances. These include:

• Failure to enter Turkey within six months of the card's start date.
• Staying outside of Turkey for more than two years without a valid force majeure reason.
• Working illegally or violating labor laws.
• Not working continuously for at least one year.
• Providing false or misleading information during the application.
• Failing to submit required documents during the transition period.
• Being identified as a person who is not allowed to enter Turkey or is subject to deportation.
• Posing a risk to public order, safety, or health.

Once a Turquoise Card is canceled, it loses all validity immediately.

Related Articles

• high-skilled worker permits
• pathway to Turkish citizenship
• Blue Card vs Turquoise Card