In a bid to draw in exceptionally skilled and qualified international employees, Turkey launched the Turquoise Card scheme. This initiative, which debuted in 2016, serves both as a residency and employment authorization measure, and is overseen by the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Services.
Qualifications for the Turquoise Card scheme
Qualifying for the Turquoise Card program necessitates fulfilling several criteria, which differ based on the card’s particular type. Nonetheless, these typically encompass holding a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, possessing no less than three years of professional experience in a pertinent sector, earning an annual wage not below 50,000 Turkish Liras (around $6,000), and maintaining a spotless legal history.
The Various Classifications of the Turquoise Card
The Turquoise Card is divided into four distinct types, each catering to different professional backgrounds. The first, the General Turquoise Card, is available to individuals with high skills and qualifications in any industry. The second, tailored for those in the realm of science and innovation, is the Research and Development Turquoise Card, ideal for professionals engaged in R&D within the sectors of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Entrepreneurs looking to launch their enterprises within Turkish borders can avail themselves of the Start-Up Turquoise Card. Lastly, the Investment Turquoise Card is designed for significant contributors to Turkey’s economy through substantial investments, such as initiating new companies or the acquisition of property.
The Turquoise Card program offers a range of advantages.
Welcome to a new horizon of opportunities! The Turquoise Card program provides international employees in Turkey with significant advantages. It’s a gateway to lawful employment and residency within this vibrant country. Participants can also reunite with their loved ones by bringing family members to join them in Turkey. Moreover, after an unbroken stay of eight years, there lies the promising possibility of acquiring Turkish citizenship, paving the way for a secure future and strong ties with the nation.
Steps to Acquiring a Turquoise Card
The procedure to acquire a Turquoise Card includes these essential steps: Begin with an online submission – Prospective applicants are required to fill out an online application via the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Services’ official portal. Await confirmation – Following the submission, the Ministry will evaluate the application. Successful applications will result in an invitation for an interview at the closest Turkish consulate. Participate in the interview – Applicants are expected to present further information and documentation during the interview, as well as discuss their professional skills and experience. Secure the Turquoise Card – Successful interviewees will be granted the Turquoise Card, granting them the legal rights to live and work within Turkey.
Conclusion
In summary, Turkey’s Turquoise Card scheme serves as a dual-purpose permit for residence and employment, aimed at drawing in highly skilled foreign professionals. The program extends various advantages, such as lawful residency and employment in Turkey, the opportunity to relocate family members there, and the option to seek Turkish citizenship after an unbroken eight-year stay. To qualify, applicants are expected to possess at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, a minimum of three years of professional experience in a relevant field, an annual income not less than 50,000 Turkish liras, and a record free of any criminal convictions. The application for a Turquoise Card is completed online and requires approval, an interview, and then issuance of the card.
