Middle East
Türkiye offers one of the most accessible and affordable destinations for digital nomads, with a brand new Digital Nomad Visa launched in April 2024. Most Western passport holders enjoy visa-free access for 90 days in any 180-day period. The country bridges Europe and Asia, offering rich history, diverse landscapes, excellent food, and a growing remote work infrastructure with coworking spaces in major cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir. Cost of living is significantly lower than Western Europe, making it attractive for those earning in foreign currencies.
Visa requirements vary by nationality
Citizens of 90+ countries can enter Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism or business purposes.
Visa-free entry does not authorize any form of work. However, enforcement against remote workers on laptops is minimal. Turkey offers a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa for those wanting to work legally.
Stays under 183 days in a calendar year do not trigger Turkish tax residency. Non-residents are only taxed on Turkish-source income.
Live and work remotely in Turkey for up to 1 year with the Digital Nomad Visa. Requires $3,000/month income, a university degree, and employment with a non-Turkish company. Ages 21–55 only.
Minimum $3,000/per_month
Alternative: Alternatively, proof of $36,000 USD annual income can be provided instead of monthly statements.
Explicitly authorizes remote work for foreign employers or as a freelancer. Cannot work for Turkish-based companies.
Extension: 365 days (max 1x)
Cost: $160
Process: Apply for renewal 30 days before expiry. Submit updated income proof, valid insurance, and work documentation. Can transition to short-term residence permit for continued stay.
Renewal: Can be renewed once for another year. After 2 years, transition to a standard short-term residence permit.
Turkey taxes residents on worldwide income (15%–40% progressive). DN visa holders become tax resident after 183+ days in a calendar year. 2026 brackets: 15% up to 190,000 TRY, 20% to 400,000 TRY, 27% to 1,500,000 TRY, 35% to 5,300,000 TRY, 40% above. No special tax exemption for digital nomads per PwC. Foreign tax credits available via double taxation treaties.
Electronic visa for citizens of 50+ countries who are not visa-exempt. Apply online at evisa.gov.tr for stays of 30 or 90 days depending on nationality.
E-visa is for tourism or commerce only. Does not authorize employment. Remote work for foreign employers is a grey area with minimal enforcement.
Short stays under 183 days do not trigger tax residency. Non-residents are only taxed on Turkish-source income.
For foreigners staying in Turkey beyond 90 days for tourism, property ownership, business, education, or family reasons. Valid up to 2 years and renewable.
A short-term residence permit does not grant work authorization. Working for Turkish employers requires a separate work permit. Remote work for foreign employers is a grey area.
Residing 183+ days in Turkey triggers full tax residency and worldwide income taxation at progressive rates (15%–40%). Consult a tax professional. Double taxation treaties available with many countries.
Required for foreigners employed by a Turkish company. Employer must apply through the Ministry of Labor. Initial permit valid for 1 year, extendable.
Full authorization to work for the sponsoring Turkish employer. Tied to a specific employer — changing jobs requires a new work permit.
Full tax residency from day one. Employment income taxed at progressive rates: 15% up to 190,000 TRY, 20% to 400,000 TRY, 27% to 1,500,000 TRY, 35% to 5,300,000 TRY, 40% above. Employer handles income tax withholding and SGK contributions.
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2025