Turquoise Card for High-Tech Startups & Angel Investors
Foreign investors and angel capitalists investing a minimum equivalent of $100,000 USD into Turkish technology startups or Technoparks receive top-tier evaluation scores under the Law No. 6735 statutory framework, granting indefinite residency and work autonomy.
Statutory Criteria Under Law No. 6735
Under Law No. 6735 on International Labour Force and Law No. 4691 on Technology Development Zones, strategic technology investors benefit from corporate tax exemption, customs duty waivers, and fast-track residency.
π Statutory Incentives & Corporate Tax Exemptions
100% Corporate Tax Exemption on software/R&D earnings in Technology Development Zones
Bilateral Double Taxation Avoidance Treaty protections with 85+ nations
Fast-Track Ministry of Labour consular dossier approval protocol
VAT and customs duty exemptions on imported hardware and lab equipment
50% Social Security employer contribution subsidization for local engineering staff
π Scoring Matrix & Multiplier Breakdown
| Evaluation Dimension | Awarded Points | Threshold / Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Capital Injection ($250k+) | 40 Points | Direct equity financing verified via Foreign Exchange Purchase Certificate (DAB) |
| High-Skilled Job Creation (10+ Engineers) | 30 Points | Registered employment of local Turkish software developers and scientists |
| Patents & Proprietary IP Assets | 30 Points | PCT/WIPO or Turkish Patent Institute registered intellectual property |
Required Evidence & Dossier Checklist
- β Foreign Exchange Purchase Certificate (DAB) & cross-border bank transfer slips
- β MERSIS Chamber of Commerce Articles of Association and Trade Registry Gazette
- β Technopark / R&D Centre admission certificate and valid tenancy contract
- β Social Security Institution (SGK) workplace registration and payroll records
- β Notarized and apostilled biometric passport copy with clean criminal record
β Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tech investor obtain permanent residency in Turkey?
Yes. The Turquoise Card provides indefinite residence and open-market work rights, transitioning into Turkish citizenship eligibility upon completion of the 3-year monitoring term.
What is the baseline capital threshold for tech angels?
While the statutory baseline starts at $100,000 USD for recognized Technopark ventures, allocations of $250,000 USD or above secure top scores in the Ministry evaluation index.
Are family members covered under the cardholder status?
Yes. The spouse and dependent minor children receive Turquoise Card Relative Cards, granting continuous legal residency and healthcare access.