In a world where remote work is becoming increasingly common, Turkey has introduced a new visa program for digital nomads. This initiative enables freelancers, entrepreneurs and other remote workers to live and work in Turkey. 

Who can get a digital nomad visa in Turkey in 2024?

The Digital Nomad visa in Turkey is available for individuals from the following 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

Main requirements for obtaining a Turkish digital nomad visa

1. Ideal candidates for the visa are IT professionals, writers, marketers, business consultants, and others (those who can do their work remotely). Applicants must be between the ages of 21 and 55.
2. Have a minimum income of $3,000 per month or $36,000 per year.
3. Have a diploma of higher education.
4. Passport valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Turkey.
5. Proof of employment:
6. If you work for a company in another country, please provide your employment contract.
7. If you are a freelancer, provide a business contract between you and a company (not located in Turkey).
8. A recent biometric photo.
9. A health insurance policy. 

How to apply for a Turkish Digital Nomad visa?

Applying for a digital nomad visa in Turkey involves a clear, step-by-step process. 

To apply for a visa, you need to register on a special platform and scan and upload all the necessary documents.

1. First of all, collect all the necessary documentation, including proof of employment or business activity, a copy of your passport, higher education diploma, income and health insurance certificates.
2. Go to the official online application portal and register here. After that, you will have access to your account to fill out the visa application form and upload scanned versions of your documents.
   
3. After submitting the application, the form goes through a verification process. 
4. If approved, you will receive a digital nomad identification certificate from the system (sample certificate). 
5. After that, you will need to make an appointment at a Turkish consulate or embassy. If you are in Turkey, you will go directly to the Migration Management Presidency.
6. Bring all the collected supporting documents to the appointment and have an interview for a visa or residence permit. 
7. After the interview, the processing time may vary, but it usually takes a few weeks.

After submitting an online application, it usually takes 1 to 4 weeks to receive a response. If you need additional information or a personal interview, the authorities will contact you by email or track the status of your application online. 

The best cities in Turkey for remote workers to live in

Istanbul tops the list of the best cities for remote workers in Turkey due to its blend of Eastern and Western cultures, strong internet infrastructure, and dynamic coworking spaces. It is followed by Izmir, with its more relaxed atmosphere and moderate cost of living, but with all the necessary amenities for digital nomads.

Antalya also offers a great environment for remote work, especially for those who prefer a work-life balance in the hotter summer Mediterranean climate.