The digital nomad visa turns Turkey into the new Mecca of dream destinations

Digital nomads are constantly looking for places that offer a balance between an efficient work environment and an attractive lifestyle. In addition to established destinations such as those in Indonesia, Thailand, Spain, Portugal, Mexico or Colombia, some newer ones also appeared in Turkey.

Turkey and its popular destinations now also accessible for digital nomads Collage

High quality internet, affordable cost of living, co-working spaces and overall quality of life are priorities for nomads. And a rich local culture, favorable weather, accessibility, good health services and friendly visa regulations are also essential. Essentially, they want tourist destinations that provide them with safety, comfort and opportunities for personal and professional development.

No wonder, in this context, digital nomads prefer dream destinations such as: Bali in Indonesia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Lisbon in Portugal, Medellín in Colombia, Barcelona in Spain and Mexico City in Mexico, appreciated for their combination of excellent infrastructure and vibrant lifestyle.

Recently, however, other ideal tourist destinations have appeared in Turkey with the introduction of the new visa for digital nomads. Cities such as Istanbul, Antalya, Mugla and Izmir seem attractive to remote workers from various countries, and because they offer them the opportunity to live and work for an extended period. The Turks’ initiative brings more flexibility and options for those who want to explore new cultures and benefit from modern facilities in a dynamic environment.

Istanbul: the metropolis of opportunities, on two continents, on the banks of the Bosphorus

Turkey, the gateway to East or West, located at the confluence of Europe and Asia, presents itself as a paradise for digital nomads thanks to its favorable climate, rich culture, captivating history and bustling cities.

Istanbul, the cultural and tourism capital of Turkey, has become a magnet thanks to its fast internet connection, varied accommodation, vibrant expat community and modern co-working spaces. Outside of work, the city offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from award-winning restaurants to delicious street snacks such as: “simit”, the famous fish sandwiches – “balik ekmek” – in Karaköy and Eminönü, “ori kumpir” in Ortaköy and “kokoreç”.

Istanbul Turkey Collage Istanbul Go Turkiye

Istanbul Turkey Collage Istanbul Go Turkiye

In addition, old Constantinople / Byzantium is a city with a vast history, which includes the Byzantine, Ottoman and modern periods, offering impressive monuments such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace or the Blue Mosque. It is also a mosaic of cultures and traditions, reflecting influences from Europe, Asia and the Middle East, not to mention the spectacular landscapes, colorful neighborhoods, transport infrastructure, including water, accommodation, etc.

Izmir: gastronomic delights directly on the shores of the Aegean Sea

Izmir combines urban dynamism with the charm of a coastal resort, boasting modern infrastructure and renowned cuisine. The Urla district, recently included in the Michelin Guide, offers delicacies such as “boyoz”, a crispy pastry, and “kumru”, a local sandwich. In addition, Izmir-style stuffed mussels, “söğüş” and “kokoreç” should not be missed.

As one of Turkey’s most cosmopolitan cities, it has a rich history dating back to Antiquity, when it was known as Smyrna – an important commercial and cultural center of the Roman and Byzantine Empires. The ancient ruins of the Agora, for example, are testimonies to this historical legacy.

Izmir Turkey Collage Izmir City And Izmir GoTurkiye

Izmir Turkey Collage Izmir City And Izmir GoTurkiye

Pleasant Mediterranean climate and access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, through its popular resorts such as Çeşme and Alacati, the Izmir International Film Festival and the Izmir Music Festival attract artists and visitors from all over the world.

And for nature and photography lovers, Mount Pagos or Mount Kadifekale offer a spectacular panorama over the city of Izmir.

Muğla: Unforgettable Culinary Adventures on the “Turquoise Coast”

In southwestern Turkey, Muğla Province attracts tourists with its picturesque cities, Dalaman, Bodrum and Marmaris. The Aegean cuisine of this region stands out for its fresh seafood and olive oil dishes. Bodrum’s local markets offer regional delicacies such as “otlu börek”, and restaurants serve international dishes.

Mugla Turkey Collage Mugla GoTurkiye

Mugla Turkey Collage Mugla GoTurkiye

It stands out for its spectacular coastline and dreamy beaches, which is why it is also called the “Turquoise Coast” of the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. It includes famous beach destinations such as Bodrum, Marmaris and Fethiye, but also fascinating historical sites such as the ancient city of Knidos and the Lydian Citadel of Fethiye. Also special about Muğla is its natural landscape with extensive pine forests, as well as its spa centers and its famous thermal baths. It is surrounded by Köyceğiz-Dalyan National Park and Ölüdeniz Nature Reserve.

Antalya: the center of the Turkish Riviera

Antalya, known for its long beaches and historic cities, is a popular destination for digital nomads. Here you can enjoy the delicious “gözleme” filled with cheese or potatoes, along with a Finike orange juice. Turkish ice cream, including the unique version from Antalya, is ideal for hot summer days.

Antalya Turkey Collage Antalya Go Turkiye

Antalya Turkey Collage Antalya Go Turkiye

Located on the “Turkish Riviera”, Antalya is one of the most popular tourist destinations not only in Turkey, but also in the world, being a corner of paradise on the Mediterranean coast. However, it has some lesser-known gems such as the Old Town – Kaleiçi – the historic center of Antalya, with narrow cobbled streets and restored Ottoman houses that stand out for their charming and authentic atmosphere in contrast to the modernity of other areas of the city -, the spectacular Düden waterfall, which flows directly into the Mediterranean Sea, the underground city of Olympos, the ruins of the Temple of Apollo near the antiquities of Side, the Köprülü Canyon National Park ideal for hiking, rafting and wildlife watching.

Turkey digital nomad visa

Digital nomads can obtain the new Turkish visa through the Digital Nomad GoTürkiye platform. Eligible are citizens of various European and North American countries, between the ages of 21 and 55, who, in addition to a valid passport, must be university graduates and demonstrate that they have a monthly income of $3,000 or an annual income of 36,000 dollars.

The documents required for those who want to obtain a digital nomad visa to live in Turkey in one of the mentioned tourist destinations also include a biometric photo.