Türkiye Introduces TechVisa Program to Attract Global Entrepreneurs
Türkiye has unveiled a new visa initiative aimed at simplifying the process for foreign entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals to obtain work permits, as part of its broader strategy to attract high-value tech startups to the country.
The Türkiye TechVisa Program, launched on Monday, is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Industry and Technology and the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. It offers a three-year work permit to entrepreneurs and expert professionals working in high-growth sectors who establish companies in Türkiye.
Developed over the past two years, the program provides significant incentives, including corporate tax exemptions for companies operating in technology parks or incubators, and income tax breaks for their employees.
The initiative is designed to reduce bureaucratic barriers and enhance Türkiye's appeal as a hub for early-stage and scaling tech companies.
"The program aims to ensure that foreign entrepreneurs and professionals feel at home in Türkiye, empowering them to make long-term plans," said Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır during the launch event at Istanbul Airport.
Kacır emphasized that Turkish tech startups and skilled local talent will benefit greatly from the program, calling it a comprehensive initiative to strengthen Türkiye’s future as a center for tech innovation. He also underscored the extensive collaboration between national and international partners that made the program possible.
Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Minister Kacır highlighted the global shift towards technology-driven economies, stating that entrepreneurship is at the heart of this transformation. He stressed that high-value, innovative tech startups are essential drivers of both economic growth and societal progress, with their potential for rapid scaling and expansion into global markets.
"Entrepreneurship is playing an increasingly critical role in the development of nations," Kacır said, noting that businesses are investing heavily in innovative ventures to stay competitive.
The TechVisa program will also provide six months of legal, financial, and technical consultancy services to foreign entrepreneurs setting up businesses in Türkiye. The government aims to support their integration into the country’s burgeoning tech ecosystem and facilitate access to Türkiye's comprehensive public incentive programs.
Aiming for Global Tech Hub Status
Kacır noted that the Türkiye TechVisa Program is a key milestone in the country's ambition to position itself as a global technology hub. He expressed confidence that the growing ecosystem will foster more success stories, accelerating connections between startups, investors, and top talent.
Labor and Social Security Minister Vedat Işıkhan, who also spoke at the event, emphasized the program's streamlined work permit procedures, designed to meet the fast-moving demands of the tech sector. He highlighted the program's role in attracting highly skilled professionals and tech entrepreneurs, while safeguarding the domestic workforce.
"We are issuing work permits for foreign professionals while maintaining a strong commitment to protecting our local labor market," Işıkhan said. He added that international expertise will complement Türkiye’s workforce, particularly in sectors where local talent is insufficient.
With this new visa initiative, Türkiye is poised to strengthen its position as a global player in technology and entrepreneurship, creating an environment that fosters innovation and draws top talent from around the world.
