How to Obtain an Investor Visa in Turkey
Turkey offers attractive opportunities for foreign investors seeking to start a business or make investments in the country. One of the most effective ways to establish yourself in Turkey as an entrepreneur or investor is by obtaining an investor visa. This visa allows foreign nationals to live and conduct business legally in Turkey. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of obtaining an investor visa and explain why working with a lawyer is crucial to ensure a smooth application.
1. What Is an Investor Visa?
The investor visa, also known as a Turkish residence permit for investors, allows foreigners to stay in Turkey while running a business or managing their investments. This visa is aimed at individuals who wish to contribute to the Turkish economy by setting up businesses, buying real estate, or making significant financial investments.
2. Eligibility for an Investor Visa
To qualify for an investor visa, you must meet certain requirements. The most common qualifying investments include:
- Purchasing Real Estate: You can qualify by purchasing real estate worth at least $400,000, provided you maintain ownership for a minimum of three years.
- Depositing Funds: An alternative route is to deposit $500,000 (or the equivalent in foreign currency or Turkish lira) into a Turkish bank. The deposit must be held for at least three years.
- Investing in Turkish Assets: You can also invest $500,000 in Turkish government bonds, stocks, or other approved financial instruments.
- Setting Up a Company: If you start a business in Turkey, you need to register your company and demonstrate that it contributes to the Turkish economy by creating jobs or supporting industry growth. Typically, this requires employing at least 50 Turkish citizens.
Working with a lawyer is essential to determine which type of investment qualifies for the visa and to ensure compliance with Turkish regulations.
3. Steps to Apply for an Investor Visa
The application process involves several steps and requires careful preparation. Here’s a general overview:
- Step 1: Make the Investment: Before applying for the visa, you must complete the required investment, whether it's purchasing real estate, making a financial deposit, or investing in a company. Ensure that all documents related to your investment are legally verified and ready for submission.
- Step 2: Prepare Your Application: Gather the necessary documents, which typically include:
- A valid passport
- Proof of your investment (e.g., property title, bank statements, or company registration documents)
- A completed visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Health insurance valid in Turkey
- Proof of financial stability to support yourself while living in Turkey
A lawyer can assist with preparing and reviewing your application, ensuring that all required documents are properly completed and submitted.
- Step 3: Submit Your Application: You can submit your application to the Turkish consulate or embassy in your home country. Alternatively, if you are already in Turkey on a different visa, you can apply through the Turkish Ministry of Interior’s Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM).
- Step 4: Attend an Interview (If Required): Depending on your situation, you may be required to attend an interview with Turkish authorities. A lawyer can help you prepare for this interview, ensuring you understand the process and requirements.
4. Processing Time
The processing time for an investor visa can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your case and the type of investment. Legal assistance can help avoid delays, ensuring that your application is processed as quickly as possible.
5. Benefits of the Investor Visa
Holding an investor visa in Turkey provides several advantages, including:
- Residency: You and your family can legally live in Turkey while managing your investments.
- Work Permission: As a business owner or investor, you can legally work in Turkey.
- Path to Turkish Citizenship: After five years of residence in Turkey, investor visa holders may become eligible for Turkish citizenship, provided they meet certain requirements.
A lawyer can guide you through the citizenship application process if this is your long-term goal.
6. Why You Need a Lawyer
Navigating the Turkish legal system and ensuring that your investment meets all the necessary requirements for an investor visa can be complicated. Working with a lawyer simplifies the process and ensures that you avoid mistakes that could lead to delays or even rejection of your visa application. A lawyer can help:
- Ensure that your investment qualifies for the visa
- Review all legal documents to prevent issues
- Assist in navigating Turkish business regulations
- Provide ongoing support if you plan to apply for Turkish citizenship in the future
Conclusion
Obtaining an investor visa in Turkey is an excellent opportunity for foreign nationals looking to invest and live in the country. However, it requires careful planning and legal guidance. Consulting with a lawyer throughout the application process is essential to ensure that your investment meets the legal requirements and that your application is successful. With the right legal support, you can enjoy the benefits of living and investing in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
