Türkiye Tech Visa Attracts 5,000 Developers, Minister Says
Türkiye’s tech visa program has attracted nearly 5,000 developers, boosting R&D spending to $20 billion and expanding its startup ecosystem, Minister Kacır said.
RUKAIYA KADIVAL 
ISTANBUL: Nearly 5,000 technology developers have relocated to Türkiye under its Tech Visa Program since its launch in September 2024, Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır said on Tuesday, highlighting the initiative’s role in expanding the country’s innovation ecosystem and attracting global talent.
The visa program, designed to simplify work permits for foreign entrepreneurs and skilled professionals, offers three-year work authorizations to individuals establishing or working in high-value technology sectors. The initiative forms part of Türkiye’s broader strategy to strengthen its position as a global hub for startups and advanced technologies.
Tech Visa Program Gains Traction
According to Kacır, the program has already enabled thousands of developers to relocate and continue their work within Türkiye’s growing tech ecosystem. The initiative focuses on attracting early-stage startups and scaling companies by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and improving ease of doing business.
The visa framework also provides incentives such as corporate tax exemptions for companies operating in designated technoparks and incubators, along with income tax waivers for employees. These benefits are aimed at lowering operational costs and enhancing competitiveness for technology-driven firms.
The government’s approach emphasizes creating a supportive environment for innovation, particularly for foreign entrepreneurs seeking to establish or expand operations in emerging markets.
R&D Spending and Workforce Expansion
Kacır highlighted significant growth in Türkiye’s research and development landscape, with total R&D spending rising sharply from $1.2 billion to $20 billion. Private sector contributions now account for $14 billion of that total, reflecting increased participation from industry players.
The country’s R&D workforce has also expanded substantially, exceeding 300,000 personnel. This growth underscores Türkiye’s focus on building a strong talent base to support innovation and technological advancement.
Officials view the increase in R&D investment as a critical factor in improving productivity, fostering new technologies, and enhancing the country’s global competitiveness in high-value sectors.
Technoparks and Startup Ecosystem Growth
The number of companies operating within Türkiye’s technoparks has surged from just 56 two decades ago to nearly 8,700, indicating rapid expansion of the country’s startup infrastructure.
Technoparks play a central role in the government’s innovation strategy by offering tax incentives, research support, and collaboration opportunities between academia and industry. These hubs are designed to accelerate product development and commercialization for emerging businesses.
The growth in technopark participation aligns with broader efforts to attract international startups and integrate them into Türkiye’s innovation ecosystem.
Government Initiatives to Support High-Growth Firms
Türkiye has introduced several programs to nurture high-potential startups, including the “Turcorn 100 Program,” which aims to create billion-dollar companies. According to Kacır, more than 70 startups have already emerged from the country’s initial group of unicorns.
These initiatives focus on providing financial support, mentorship, and access to global markets, enabling startups to scale more rapidly and compete internationally.
The government’s strategy combines policy support, infrastructure development, and financial incentives to drive long-term growth in the technology sector.
Infrastructure Plans and Future Positioning
As part of its efforts to strengthen the innovation ecosystem, Türkiye plans to transform Atatürk Airport into “Terminal Istanbul,” a large-scale entrepreneurship hub. The project is expected to provide additional infrastructure for startups, investors, and technology companies.
The initiative reflects Türkiye’s ambition to position itself as a central hub for global technology and innovation, leveraging its geographic location and expanding talent pool.
Officials said the Tech Visa Program, combined with rising R&D investment and infrastructure development, is intended to attract international talent and capital, supporting sustained growth in the country’s technology sector.
The program’s early traction suggests increasing global interest in Türkiye’s evolving startup ecosystem, as policymakers continue to focus on strengthening the country’s role in the global innovation landscape.
