Turquoise Card for Exceptional Talent and Investors in Türkiye in 2026

Research note: Official government and programme material checked 2026-09-23. Individual eligibility, the issued immigration document and currently applicable law govern; this is not personalized legal advice.

The Turquoise Card (Turkuaz Kart) is a selective route for highly qualified professionals, researchers and investors who meet the Labour Ministry's criteria regarding expertise, innovation, exports, investment and job creation. The official programme describes rights associated with an indefinite work permit and a residence-equivalent document for qualifying spouses and dependent children.

A three-year transition, not guaranteed permanent approval

The card begins with a three-year transition period. A holder must apply to remove the transitional condition during the published 180 days before that period ends and before its expiry, subject to the applicable review. The card is not automatically granted to every founder or passive investor and is not citizenship.

Compare practical alternatives

A screened innovative founder should review Tech Visa. Ordinary company partners should consult owner/partner work-permit criteria, and professional employees should compare employer-sponsored work. Long-term residence after eight years is a distinct migration route with separate requirements.

Official sources and related routes

All Türkiye routes · Methodology · Legal disclaimer

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Türkiye