Turkey Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements & Application Guide for Remote Workers

Turkey is an emerging hotspot for foreigners wishing to live and work abroad offering a flexible visa system, a low cost of living, and modern amenities. The country’s diverse cities—ranging from the historic and bustling Istanbul to the serene coastal towns of Antalya, Marmaris, and Bodrum—provide ideal environments for remote work. Turkey’s digital nomad visa enables remote workers to reside legally in Turkey while enjoying tax benefits, a vibrant expat community, and the ability to explore Turkey’s rich culture and natural beauty. Turkey’s extensive infrastructure, from reliable internet connectivity to efficient transport systems, makes it an excellent choice for professionals seeking a unique and fulfilling work-life balance.

What Is A Digital Nomad? 

Digital nomadism refers to a way of working in which individuals can perform their work remotely while travelling or living in different places thanks to the blessings of technology. Seen today as a lifestyle, digital nomadism is characterised by a high degree of mobility, flexibility, and independence. Thanks to an internet connection, a digital nomad can work from anywhere, be it a café, a co-working space, or a villa by the beach. This lifestyle is made possible and on the rise by advances in technology, such as cloud computing, collaboration tools, and widespread internet access, which make remote work in Turkey and in the all world possible for almost every profession. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend as businesses embrace remote working, and digital nomadism has given more people the opportunity to pursue careers independent of where they live. Changes in corporate culture, work-life balance, and the desire for freedom and travel, with its birth, have made the growth of the digital nomad movement even more widespread and relevant.

What Is A Digital Nomad Visa? 

A digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live and work in a foreign country, while also performing their work abroad for companies or clients. The general requirements for obtaining such a visa usually include proof of employment or freelance work, showing that the applicant receives a regular income from a foreign company or clients. Applicants are generally required to meet minimum income thresholds, provide valid health insurance, and show proof of accommodation or sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. Most countries also require a clean criminal record and a passport valid for the duration of the visa.

The benefits of a digital nomad visa include legal residency in a foreign country for an extended period of time, usually ranging from six months to a year, with options for renewal. It allows remote workers to explore new cultures and lifestyles while pursuing their careers. This visa often provides access to local services, banking and tax benefits, allowing digital nomads to work without violating local immigration laws. Many countries offering digital nomad visas also make it financially advantageous by providing a favourable tax environment or exemptions to attract remote workers.

How Can You Get A Digital Nomad Visa From Turkey? 

What Is A Digital Nomad Identity Certificate In Turkey?

The Digital Nomad Identity Certificate is the first step in the process of obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa for Turkey. This certificate is obtained through an online platform designed to verify the applicant’s eligibility as a digital nomad. Individuals between the ages of 21-55 can apply by uploading the required documents proving their digital nomad status. Once these documents are reviewed and deemed sufficient, the applicant is issued a Digital Nomad Identity Certificate.

With this certificate, applicants can apply for a Digital Nomad Visa at a Turkish Visa centre or consulate along with other required documents. If the applicant is already in Turkey, they can also use this certificate to obtain a residence permit.

Which Country Citizens Can Obtain a Digital Nomad Visa to Turkey?

Citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Ireland, Denmark, Greece, Croatia, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Finland, Sweden, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Bulgaria, Romania, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, United Kingdom, Switzerland, USA, Canada, Russian Federation, Ukraine, Belarus are eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa to Türkiye.

What Are The Necessary Documents For The Digital Nomad Visa To Turkey? 

The necessary documents and the requirements for the digital nomad visa to Turkey are as follows:

1. A valid passport or travel document with at least six months of validity from the date of arrival in Turkey.
2. Proof of university graduation, such as a diploma or degree certificate.
3. Employment documents:
   • If employed by a company (excluding Turkish companies), a work contract is required.
   • If self-employed, a business contract with a foreign company must be submitted.
4. A biometric photo.
5. Proof of sufficient income, showing that the applicant earns at least $3,000 USD per month or $36,000 USD annually.

Short Term Residence Permit Can Be An Alternative For Digital Nomad Visa To Turkey

If you do not meet the specific requirements for a Digital Nomad visa, such as being a citizen of certain countries, presenting a diploma or employment contract, there is no need to worry. A short-term residence permit in Turkey is always an alternative. Once your application for a short-term residence permit in Turkey is approved, you can find a job to work in Turkey and apply for a work permit, or you can continue to live in Turkey while maintaining your job abroad. 

Living and Working In Turkey

Obtaining a Visa for Türkiye

The first step to start living in Turkey is, of course, to obtain legal entry to Turkey. Citizens of 20 countries can enter Türkiye using only their national identification cards. These countries include Germany, France, Georgia, and Greece, among others. Citizens of 49 countries can apply for an e-visa online. For stays longer than 90 days, foreigners must apply for a residence permit through the Directorate of Immigration Management, regardless of their visa status.

Setting Up an Internet Connection In Turkey 

Internet connectivity is now an essential part of our lives. The first question an expat thinking of living in Turkey will ask is how to access the internet in Turkey. To get internet service in Turkey, residents must contact an internet service provider. ADSL is widely available, while fiber connections are more common in larger cities and coastal areas. Many providers offer combined telephone and internet packages, which may be more economical. Connection packages range from one month to two years, and prices vary depending on the chosen plan. Expats need a residence permit and a recent utility bill to set up an internet connection, making the process straightforward for homeowners and renters.

Air Travel To And Within Turkey

Turkiye is well-connected internationally, with 35 airports offering flights to destinations around the world. The primary entry point is İstanbul Airport (IST), located on the European side of the city, about 45 minutes from the center. The airport serves as a hub for flights to various global destinations. Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side of İstanbul also handles both international and domestic flights. Dalaman Airport (DLM) is mainly used for charter flights, providing access to Türkiye’s touristic coastline. Antalya Airport (AYT), Türkiye’s third-busiest airport, has two international terminals and one domestic terminal, catering to a large number of tourists, especially during the peak season.

Overall, Türkiye offers accessible entry and modern infrastructure, making it convenient for both short-term travelers and long-term residents.

Istanbul Is An Excellent Choice For Expats 

İstanbul is a city of contrasts and opportunities, blending ancient history with modern business and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to work, live, or explore, the city offers a unique experience that caters to a wide range of interests and needs.

Living in İstanbul:

İstanbul, a bustling metropolis with a population of 20 million, is a convergence point of various cultures and histories. As a business hub, it houses large companies and start-ups, making it an attractive destination for professionals looking to work in a vibrant city. Choosing where to stay in İstanbul can be overwhelming due to the diversity of its neighborhoods, but it’s easy to explore different areas thanks to the city’s extensive transportation network, including metro lines, and ferries connecting the European and Asian sides. Each district offers its own unique atmosphere and amenities, with options ranging from fully furnished apartments and all kind of real estate to long-term or short-term rentals.

Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu are the city’s historic and touristic centers, with easy access to significant landmarks, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. They are ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the cultural heart of İstanbul.

Şişli, Mecidiyeköy, Kabataş, and Beşiktaş are centrally located districts that cater to residents seeking modern living with access to a wide range of amenities and proximity to business and shopping centers.

Levent, Ulus, and Maslak are prominent business districts, home to corporate offices and start-ups. These areas are perfect for professionals and offer shared office spaces, high-end dining, and residential options.

Kadıköy and Üsküdar on the Asian side provide a mix of modern and traditional lifestyles, with bustling streets, boutique shops, and serene waterfronts. Kadıköy, in particular, is known for its vibrant food scene and nightlife, while Üsküdar offers a more tranquil, historical charm.

Dining and Cuisine: 

İstanbul is a culinary hotspot with a rich gastronomic landscape featuring Turkish and international cuisines. From traditional lokantas serving home-style meals to high-end fine dining restaurants offering views of the Bosphorus, the city caters to all tastes. Street food is an integral part of the İstanbul experience, with iconic snacks like simit, balık ekmek (fish sandwiches), and midye dolma (stuffed mussels) available throughout the city. Lokantas, a staple in Turkish dining culture, provide affordable and hearty meals that attract people from all walks of life. The city’s culinary scene is diverse, with restaurants serving Italian, French, Japanese, Chinese, and Lebanese dishes, reflecting İstanbul’s cosmopolitan character.

Things to Do in İstanbul: İstanbul offers an array of activities and attractions, making it impossible to experience everything in one visit. The city’s rich history is reflected in its numerous historic sites, including mosques, churches, palaces, and ancient wooden houses. Visitors can explore the shores of the Bosphorus, enjoy ferry rides between continents, or relax in tulip-filled parks. The northern part of the city features lush forests, ideal for hiking and cycling, while the Black Sea coast offers beautiful beaches. Sports fans can immerse themselves in the city’s passionate football culture by attending a derby match between the city’s major clubs: Beşiktaş, Fenerbahçe, and Galatasaray. The arts and culture scene is equally vibrant, with numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues offering a wide range of events and exhibitions.

Working in İstanbul: 

The city’s thriving business environment is supported by numerous shared office spaces, providing flexible and modern work environments for freelancers, start-ups, and established businesses alike. These shared offices are equipped with the latest technology and facilities, making them ideal for networking and collaboration. With options available on both the European and Asian sides of the city, professionals can choose a location that best suits their needs.

Climate and Lifestyle: 

İstanbul’s climate is characterised by warm, humid summers and cool, wet winters. The city’s unique geographical location, straddling Europe and Asia, creates a diverse climate that varies across different districts. Spring and autumn are considered the best seasons to visit, offering mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. This favourable climate, combined with the city’s extensive recreational and cultural offerings, contributes to a vibrant and diverse lifestyle for residents and visitors.

You Will Love İzmir 

Discover & Work from İzmir

İzmir, known for its sunny Mediterranean climate, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern conveniences. With 629 kilometers of coastline, the city is home to numerous Blue Flag beaches, stunning sea views, and a wide array of restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and Aegean specialties. Visitors can enjoy leisurely seaside walks along Kordon, starting from the iconic İzmir Clock Tower, or take scenic ferry rides from Alsancak to Karşıyaka. Inland, the remnants of ancient civilizations offer a glimpse into the city’s rich historical heritage.

Where to Stay

İzmir provides a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to cozy boutique stays. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, the city’s vibrant culinary scene and diverse lodging choices cater to all types of travelers.

What & Where to Eat

İzmir is famous for its local delicacies such as boyoz, gevrek, kumru, lokma dessert, şevketibostan, arapsaçı, İzmir meatballs, and şambali dessert. The nearby Çeşme Peninsula, especially Alaçatı and Urla, is a food lover’s paradise, offering farm-to-table dishes, innovative Turkish cuisine, and Turkish wines. With its recent inclusion in the Michelin Guide, İzmir’s culinary scene is quickly gaining international recognition.

What to Do in İzmir

There is no shortage of activities in İzmir. You can stroll along the Karşıyaka coast, known for its beautiful sunsets and resort-like ambiance, or visit the İzmir Clock Tower and enjoy a Turkish coffee in the historic Kızlarağası Han. Don’t miss out on riding the historic elevator to admire panoramic views of the city. The ferry rides across the Gulf of İzmir are also a popular way to enjoy the scenic Aegean Sea. For vacations, locals often head to nearby holiday spots like Foça, Urla, Alaçatı, and Çeşme for water sports, luxury hotels, and boutique stays.

Climate

İzmir enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), making it ideal for beach and outdoor activities. Winters are milder, with temperatures between 8°C and 15°C (46°F to 59°F), offering a pleasant break from colder climates. With year-round sunshine, İzmir is perfect for both exploration and relaxation.

Work and Live In Antalya, The Turkish Riviera

Expats are captivated by Antalya’s perfect harmony of nature, history, and modern living, making it an ideal place to settle. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Antalya offers a warm Mediterranean climate that allows for an outdoor lifestyle nearly year-round. Expats enjoy easy access to stunning Blue Flag beaches, including the world-renowned Kaputaş Beach, making beach activities and relaxation a daily routine.

The city’s rich historical backdrop, with ancient cities like Perge, Olympos, and Aspendos, provides endless exploration opportunities. Walking through these ancient sites, experiencing landmarks such as Hadrian’s Gate and the monumental Aspendos Theatre, and attending cultural festivals like the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival are key attractions.

Antalya also boasts a high standard of living, with its luxury resorts, golf courses, wellness centers, and international restaurants offering expats both comfort and convenience. For those seeking a slower pace, Kaleiçi, Antalya’s old town, provides picturesque alleyways and boutique dining with stunning marina views. Expats can indulge in Antalya’s unique local cuisine, featuring specialties like Antalya-style shish köfte, tahinli piyaz, and yanık dondurma.

With its seamless blend of history, modern amenities, and natural beauty, Antalya is a top choice for expats looking to enjoy a balanced, vibrant lifestyle in the heart of the Turkish Riviera.

The Perfect Coastal Lifestyle: Work&Live In Marmaris, Bodrum, Fethiye, and Dalaman

Expats are drawn to the stunning southwestern coast of Turkey, where Marmaris, Bodrum, Fethiye, and Dalaman offer unique lifestyles combining natural beauty, history, and modern amenities.

Marmaris is famous for its lush forests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant marina life. Expats enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle, with easy access to both nature and nightlife. The town’s modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare facilities, and numerous marinas make it ideal for those who love the sea and boating.

Bodrum is renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, historic landmarks like the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, and vibrant cultural scene. The town attracts international visitors and residents with its luxurious resorts, trendy restaurants, and art galleries. Expats value Bodrum’s high standard of living and the blend of traditional Turkish charm with modern comforts.

Fethiye offers a more laid-back lifestyle with breathtaking landscapes, including the famous Blue Lagoon and the ancient Lycian ruins. Its proximity to outdoor activities like paragliding, hiking, and sailing makes it a haven for adventurers. Fethiye’s welcoming community and more affordable cost of living are major draws for expats seeking a tranquil yet active life.

Dalaman serves as a gateway to the region, with its international airport providing easy connections to Europe and beyond. While quieter than its neighboring towns, Dalaman offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle with scenic beauty, including fertile valleys and nearby beaches. It’s perfect for expats seeking a slower pace of life while remaining well-connected to the rest of the world.

Overall, these coastal gems offer expats a perfect balance of natural beauty, rich history, modern amenities, and a welcoming community. Whether seeking adventure, tranquility, or a cosmopolitan vibe, these towns cater to a variety of expat lifestyles.

Conclusion

Turkey offers digital nomads an unparalleled blend of rich history, modern infrastructure, and vibrant cultural experiences. With easy access to high-speed internet, diverse working environments, and a relatively low cost of living, it has become an increasingly attractive destination for remote workers. By offering a digital nomad visa and supporting services, Turkey provides a legal and practical pathway for digital nomads to explore the country while continuing their professional careers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, serenity, or a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Turkey has something for every digital nomad looking to thrive both personally and professionally.

How Can We Assist You?

As Viridis Legal Partners, your immigration lawyers in Turkey, we specialize in guiding digital nomads through the legal intricacies of obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa in Turkey. From ensuring you meet all visa requirements to evaluating residence permit and work permit options, we offer comprehensive legal support to make your transition to Turkey as smooth as possible. Whether you need help securing the Digital Nomad Identity Certificate, setting up your residence permit, or understanding Turkish tax laws, our expert team of English speaking Turkish lawyers is here to assist you every step of the way. 

Contact us today and let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your digital nomad lifestyle.