In a significant move aimed at bolstering its position as a global hub for technology and innovation, Türkiye unveiled a new TechVisa program on Monday, specifically designed to simplify work permits for foreign entrepreneurs and skilled professionals. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Industry and Technology in collaboration with the Labor and Social Security Ministry, aims to attract high-value tech startups by offering streamlined bureaucratic processes and valuable incentives.
The TechVisa program, which has been under development for two years, grants three-year work permits to foreign entrepreneurs and expert employees working in high-value sectors, particularly those looking to establish businesses in Türkiye. By doing so, the country hopes to enhance its entrepreneurial ecosystem and foster greater innovation within its tech industry.
Comprehensive Incentives to Drive Innovation
One of the most attractive features of the TechVisa program is its wide range of incentives. Companies established within Türkiye’s tech parks or incubators will be exempt from corporate taxes, while employees will benefit from income tax waivers. These measures are intended to encourage the growth of tech startups and foster a nurturing environment for innovative ideas to flourish.
Speaking at the launch event held at Istanbul Airport, Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır described the initiative as a cornerstone for Türkiye’s technological future. “It aims to enable professionals and entrepreneurs to feel at home and make long-term plans in Türkiye,” said Kacır. “The biggest beneficiaries of this program will undoubtedly be Turkish tech startups and our skilled workforce.”
A Vision for Türkiye’s Entrepreneurial Future
Kacır emphasized that the program reflects Türkiye’s ambition to be at the forefront of the global tech revolution. “The world is undergoing rapid transformation, and technological advancements have placed entrepreneurship at the heart of the new global order,” he noted, highlighting that high-value, innovative startups are instrumental in generating economic growth and societal value.
With the TechVisa program, Türkiye seeks to position itself as a key player in the global tech ecosystem. The program also offers six months of legal, financial, and technical consultancy to entrepreneurs as they establish their companies in Türkiye. This support will help entrepreneurs navigate the country’s comprehensive public incentive programs and expedite their integration into Türkiye’s dynamic tech ecosystem.
Streamlined Procedures and Support for Entrepreneurs
Labor and Social Security Minister Vedat Işıkhan, who also spoke at the event, stressed the program’s commitment to accelerating work permit procedures for foreign professionals. “The TechVisa is designed to meet the fast-moving demands of the tech sector by reducing bureaucratic barriers,” said Işıkhan. He underscored that the permits will address skills gaps by attracting international expertise without compromising the protection of Türkiye’s domestic workforce.
“We are issuing work permits for foreign workers while maintaining a strong focus on protecting local labor,” Işıkhan stated. He added that where local labor supply is insufficient, the TechVisa will fill the gap with complementary international expertise, ensuring a balanced approach to workforce development.
Positioning Türkiye as a Global Technology Center
The TechVisa program is part of Türkiye’s larger strategy to become a global center for technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Kacır expressed confidence that this new initiative will attract foreign investment, foster collaboration between startups and investors, and drive the rapid expansion of the country’s tech industry.
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