Turquoise Card Workflow

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What is the Turquoise Card?

The Turquoise Card (Turkuaz Kart) is Türkiye’s equivalent of a permanent residency / work authorization card. It grants:

• Indefinite right to reside in Türkiye
• Right to work without a separate work permit
• Access to Turkish social security (SGK)
• Path to citizenship (after 5 years)

Eligibility categories

Category	Criteria
Highly skilled professionals	Exceptional qualification in field; must be sought-after by Turkish employers
Investors	Minimum investment thresholds in Turkey
Scientists / researchers	Academic or research contributions
Artists / cultural figures	Recognized contributions
Athletes	Professional sports career
Spouses and children	Linked to a primary Turquoise Card holder

Investment thresholds (verify current values)

• Fixed capital investment: minimum $500,000 USD
• Real estate: minimum $400,000 USD (with title deed)
• Employment creation: minimum 50 Turkish employees
• Treasury-backed bonds: minimum $500,000 USD

Workflow stages

PENDING
  → AWAITING_DOCUMENTS          Gathering eligibility documentation
  → SUBMITTED                    Filed with Ministry of Labour (ÇSGB)
  → UNDER_REVIEW                 Evaluation committee review
  → COMPLIANCE_REVIEW            Additional checks requested
  → APPROVED                     Card approved
  → ISSUED                       Card produced and delivered
  → ACTIVE                       Card in force (3-year trial period)
  → COMPLETED                    Transitioned to permanent status

Trial period

Turquoise Cards are initially issued with a 3-year trial period. After 3 years of compliant residence, the card converts to permanent status automatically if there are no compliance issues.

Key compliance points

• Cardholder must not be absent from Türkiye for more than 12 consecutive months (may void the card)
• Criminal record check required
• Financial solvency must be maintained for investor category

Documents required

• Passport (all pages with visa/entry stamps)
• Proof of eligibility (investment proof, employment contract, academic credentials)
• Criminal record certificate from home country (apostilled, translated)
• Bank statements / financial proof
• Biometric photos
• Application form (ÇSGB format)

Citizenship pathway

Turquoise Card holders can apply for Turkish citizenship after 5 years of residence (continuous, compliant). This is separate from the standard 5-year path and may have different evidence requirements. Coordinate with the citizenship workflow.