Are you a new digital nomad wondering if you can live in Turkey for a while and continue working remotely? The answer is yes! You can become a digital nomad in Turkey, as Turkey has recently launched a digital nomad visa.
In this blog post, I will discuss all the details of the Turkish digital nomad visa program. Interested? Keep reading!
Table of Contents
Who Can Become A Digital Nomad In Turkey?
The Turkey Digital Nomad Visa is available for people from these eligible countries:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Belarus
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- 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
- United Kingdom
- USA
Application Requirements For Turkish Digital Nomad Visa
To apply for a Turkish Digital Nomad visa, you have to sign up for the digital nomad platform. Then, you need to scan and upload the following documents:
1. Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Turkey.
2. Diploma or Certification of Degree document showing that you are a university graduate.
3. Document showing that you work in the Digital Nomad field:
– Contract, if you are working within a company that is located in another country.
– If you are a freelancer, the business contract between you and the company (not located in Turkey).
4. Biometric photo of yourself.
5. Document proving that you have a monthly income of 3,000 USD or 36,000 USD annually.
How To Apply For Turkey’s Digital Nomad Visa?
Step 1. Determine Your Eligibility
Make sure you meet the criteria for the digital nomad identification certificate to ensure you work in the digital nomad field.
Step 2. Gather Required Documents
Gather necessary documents, which are proof of employment, a valid passport, health insurance coverage, and financial means.
Step 3. Choose Application Location
Decide whether you will apply through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security’s system in Turkey or through the Foreign Representative Office from your home country or country of residence.
Step 4. Submit Your Application
If applying from your home country or residence, submit all necessary information and documents to the Ministry online. You can also authorize a third party, such as a visa consultation agency, to apply on your behalf.
Step 5. Contact the Local Turkish Consulate
For further guidance and assistance with the application process, you can contact a local consulate.
Step 6. Application Process for Regular E-Visa
Follow these steps if you want to apply for a regular e-visa:
- Fill out the Turkish e-visa application form from the official website.
- Save the confirmation page for your records.
- Pay the visa fee via Mastercard, Visa, or UnionPay credit/debit cards.
- Wait for the confirmation email, which will include a link to download your E-Visa.
The Best Places In Turkey For Digital Nomads
Turkey is a popular destination for digital nomads who want to live and work in a beautiful and budget-friendly country. Here are some of the best places in Turkey for digital nomads:
Antalya
Turkey’s Mediterranean city of Antalya is well known for its stunning beaches, pleasant weather, and laid-back vibe. The city center, particularly the areas of Konyaalti and Lara, is a popular choice among expatriates due to its safety and the well-balanced blend of Eastern and Western cultures.
Digital nomads can choose to work from cafes, new coworking spaces, or their homes in Antalya. The city’s stunning shoreline provides a tranquil coastal experience after work, and its thriving culinary culture appeals to both local and foreign palates, making it a food enthusiast’s paradise.
Izmir
In Turkey’s Aegean area, Izmir is a picturesque seaside city with sandy beaches, sunny skies, and a laid-back vibe that makes it the ideal place to unwind. The city core is frequently preferred by foreigners, particularly Alsancak and Konak, which are renowned for fusing Eastern and Western influences.
Living in Izmir is safe because it’s one of Turkey’s safest cities. In Izmir, there is no shortage of options for digital nomads looking for flexible and efficient work locations, including cafes and coworking spaces such as Originn Coworking, Withco Coworking, and Goyahub.
Istanbul
The “city that never sleeps,” Istanbul, has a wide variety of attractions, including nightlife, historic landmarks, and food and shopping. Central Istanbul neighborhoods like Beyoglu, Sisli, and Ortakoy are popular with expats because they offer a distinctive way of life due to the coexistence of Western and Eastern influences.
Digital nomads can find a variety of cafes and coworking spaces in Istanbul, such as Impact Hub Istanbul, DAM, and CoBac, to meet their needs and tastes. Digital marketing agencies in Istanbul also contribute to the vibrant business ecosystem, supporting a network of professionals in various industries
Ankara
Turkey’s capital, Ankara, attracts families and young professionals with its modernism and rich cultural legacy. It also has some of the country’s best universities. Many foreigners choose downtown regions like Kavaklidere or Sihhiye, but Ankara’s many neighborhoods suit a range of tastes, and the city’s low crime rate contributes to its reputation as a safe one.
For greater productivity, Ankara provides digital nomads with easy-to-access coworking spaces like CoZone, eOfis Ankara Next Level, and Ancowork, which are furnished with conference rooms, high-speed WiFi, and event spaces.
Advantages Of Living In Turkey As A Digital Nomad
Cost of Living: Turkey has a relatively low cost of living compared to many Western countries, allowing digital nomads to stretch their budgets further and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Cultural Richness: Turkey boasts a rich cultural heritage with a blend of Eastern and Western influences, offering digital nomads ample opportunities to explore historical sites, vibrant markets, and diverse cuisines.
Modern Infrastructure: Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have modern infrastructure, including reliable internet connectivity, coworking spaces, and amenities tailored to remote workers’ needs.
Scenic Landscapes: From stunning coastlines along the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas to picturesque mountains and valleys, Turkey offers breathtaking natural scenery that provides inspiration and relaxation for digital nomads.
Warm Climate: Many parts of Turkey enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, providing an ideal environment for outdoor activities and exploration year-round.
Hospitality: Turkish people are known for their warmth and hospitality towards visitors, making digital nomads feel welcome and supported during their stay in the country.
Learn The Local Language To Become A Respectful Digital Nomad In Turkey
English speakers shouldn’t worry too much about language barriers in Turkey because most people in the main tourist destinations speak English. Vendors, hotels, restaurants, and stores in major cities like Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, and Cappadocia are particularly likely to speak English and other languages.
However, many Turkish people, including taxi drivers, do not speak English. So it would be better to try to learn Turkish or at least conversational phrases like merhaba and teşekkür ederim. Locals admire it when foreigners try to speak their language.
If you want to learn Turkish, you can use the Ling app! Ling is the best friend of all digital nomads since it specializes in teaching South Asian and Eastern European languages! It makes language learning super easy and teaches you the most useful phrases in thematic categories. Also, Ling covers all primary language skills so that you comprehensively study Turkish from the start.
How Do You Say “Digital Nomad” In Turkish?
The word “digital nomad” in Turkish is dijital göçebe or dijital gezgin. Both phrases convey the idea of someone who travels while working digitally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Being A Digital Nomad In Turkey
Let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions about being a digital nomad in Turkey:
1. Does Turkey Offer Digital Nomad Visas?
Now, you can live in Turkey as a digital nomad thanks to the digital nomad visa that the country launched recently.
2. Is Turkey Good For Digital Nomads?
Turkey is a great choice for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, good infrastructure, rich cultural attractions, warm climate, and hospitable locals. However, you should be aware of potential challenges such as language barriers and bureaucratic procedures.
3. Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax In Turkey?
Digital nomads working remotely in Turkey may be subject to Turkish income tax if they stay in the country for more than 183 days in a tax year. However, tax laws vary, and it’s advisable to seek advice from a tax professional familiar with Turkish regulations.
4. Can I Work Remotely In Turkey?
Yes, you can work remotely in Turkey. Many digital nomads and remote workers choose to work from Turkey due to its favorable conditions, such as affordable cost of living, good infrastructure, and diverse cultural attractions. However, it’s essential to ensure that you comply with any visa or residency requirements and tax regulations applicable to remote work in Turkey.
Final Words
Becoming a digital nomad in Turkey offers a fantastic chance to explore a beautiful country while working remotely. While there isn’t a specific visa for digital nomads, options like the Turkish Residence Permit allow for longer stays. Turkey’s low cost of living, modern amenities, and friendly locals make it an appealing choice for remote work.
However, it’s crucial to be mindful of economic uncertainties and language barriers. Also, make sure to follow visa and tax rules. Overall, Turkey provides an exciting opportunity for digital nomads seeking adventure and cultural experiences while working from abroad.
