1. What are the legal rights and obligations of US citizens and green card holders while living in Turkey?

U.S. citizens and green card holders living in Turkey have the same rights and obligations as Turkish citizens. These rights include freedom of movement, the right to work, and the right to property. Obligations include paying taxes and adhering to local laws. Additionally, U.S. citizens must obtain a valid residence permit before they are allowed to remain in Turkey for longer than 90 days.

U.S. citizens and green card holders should also be aware that although they are protected by local laws, they may not have the same rights or benefits as Turkish citizens. For example, they may not be able to vote or participate in certain activities that are only available to Turkish citizens.

Finally, U.S. citizens and green card holders are required to comply with all U.S. laws while residing in Turkey, including laws related to taxes, financial disclosure, and export control laws.

2. Are there any immigration benefits for US citizens and green card holders in Turkey?

Yes, U.S. citizens and green card holders in Turkey can apply for certain immigration benefits, such as visas, residence permits, and permanent residence.

3. Are US citizens and green card holders allowed to work in Turkey?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders are allowed to work in Turkey. However, they must obtain a work permit before they can start working.

4. Is there a specific quota for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a work visa in Turkey?

No, there is no specific quota for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a work visa in Turkey. The Turkish government generally issues work permits on a case-by-case basis. However, it is important to note that the Turkish government does not issue work visas to any foreign nationals with a criminal record, so it is important to thoroughly check your background when applying for the visa. Additionally, the Turkish government requires that applicants have a valid passport and be able to provide evidence of their qualifications and job offer.

5. Are US citizens and green card holders eligible for free movement within Turkey?

No, US citizens and green card holders are not eligible for free movement within Turkey. A valid visa is required for US citizens and green card holders to enter Turkey and must be obtained before travelling.

6. Is there a specific period of time that US citizens and green card holders can stay in Turkey?

Yes, U.S. citizens and green card holders are allowed to stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. Visitors must have a valid passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Turkey.

7. Can US citizens and green card holders apply for permanent residency in Turkey?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders can apply for permanent residency in Turkey. To do so, they must meet all eligibility criteria, provide the necessary documentation and pay the necessary fees. The Turkish government currently requires all applicants to provide proof of language proficiency, health insurance coverage and a valid residence permit or visa.

8. What are the requirements for US citizens and green card holders to obtain permanent residency in Turkey?

In order to obtain permanent residency in Turkey, US citizens and green card holders must meet the following requirements:

1. Have a valid passport
2. Provide evidence of financial stability
3. Have a valid visa
4. Have a valid work permit (if applicable)
5. Pass an immigration background check
6. Submit proof of health insurance coverage in Turkey
7. Provide a certain amount of money in a Turkish bank account for a minimum of 6 months
8. Pay the residence permit fee
9. Sign a contract with the local immigration authorities that states that the applicant will not stay in Turkey for more than six months in any 12-month period

9. Does Turkey have any special programs that benefit US citizens and green card holders?

Yes. The Turkish government offers several programs to benefit US citizens and green card holders, including a visa-free program, tax benefits, and the ability to open bank accounts in Turkish banks. Additionally, the government has established an official US-Turkey Business Council to promote business and trade between the two countries.

10. Are there any incentives for US citizens and green card holders to invest in Turkey businesses or real estate?

Yes, there are incentives for US citizens and green card holders to invest in Turkey businesses or real estate. According to Invest in Turkey, foreign investors can benefit from a range of incentives, including tax relief, access to financing, and special permits for certain sectors. Additionally, an investor may also benefit from the Investment Support and Promotion Agency of Turkey (ISPAT). This agency provides services such as guidance on market entry, legal and regulatory issues, assistance with the application process for various investment incentives, and more.

11. Is it necessary for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a residence permit in Turkey?

Yes, it is necessary for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a residence permit in Turkey. All foreign nationals planning to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days must obtain a residence permit from the local authorities.

12. Are US citizens and green card holders required to pay taxes on income earned from Turkey?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders are required to pay taxes on income earned from Turkey. For more information on filing taxes for income earned in Turkey, please consult a tax advisor.

13. Are there any restrictions on ownership of property in Turkey for US citizens and green card holders?

Yes, there are restrictions on ownership of property in Turkey for US citizens and green card holders. According to the US Department of State, US citizens and green card holders can own property in Turkey but are limited to one residential property. All foreign purchases of property must be registered with the local land registry office and the buyer must have obtained permission from the Turkish Council of Ministers. Additionally, non-residents may only purchase property in certain areas that are designated for foreign ownership.

14. What type of visas do US citizens and green card holders need to enter Turkey?

US citizens and green card holders need a valid passport and a visa to enter Turkey. Visas can be obtained from the Turkish consulate in the US, or by applying online for an e-visa.

15. Is there a dedicated immigration office or agency that deals with legal matters related to US citizens and green card holders in Turkey?

Yes, the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, Turkey has a dedicated Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management (ACS) which handles a variety of legal matters related to US citizens and green card holders in Turkey. The ACS office can provide assistance with documents such as passports, birth certificates, and social security cards, as well as provide guidance regarding citizenship and naturalization issues.

16. Does the government of Turkey provide any support services for US citizens and green card holders such as legal aid or translation services?

No, the government of Turkey does not provide any support services such as legal aid or translation services for US citizens and green card holders. However, there are several international organizations and non-profit organizations that may provide such services in Turkey.

17. What is the process for applying for citizenship in Turkey for US Citizens and Green Card Holders?

US citizens and green card holders who wish to apply for citizenship in Turkey must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years old
2. Have resided in Turkey for at least 5 years without any interruption
3. Have a valid residence permit
4. Have a valid passport
5. Have proof of a clean criminal record from both Turkey and the US
6. Have proof of income sufficient to support yourself and any dependents in Turkey
7. Have proof of knowledge of the Turkish language
8. Have proof of knowledge of Turkish history, culture, and constitution
9. Pay the relevant application and processing fees
10. Submit a completed application form
11. Attend an interview with a Turkish Consulate or Embassy

Once an applicant is approved for citizenship in Turkey, they must take an oath before a court of law and pay all applicable taxes in order to receive their Turkish passport and ID card.

18. Are there any educational opportunities available for the children of US Citizens and Green Card Holders living in Turkey?

Yes, there are a variety of educational opportunities available for the children of US Citizens and Green Card Holders living in Turkey. The US Embassy Ankara maintains a list of international schools in Turkey, which may offer education in English and/or other foreign languages. Additionally, some of the universities in Turkey may offer degree programs taught in English. There are also several private tutors and language centers based in Istanbul that offer English classes for children.

19. What is the process for registering a business in Turkey as a US Citizen or Green Card Holder?

A US citizen or green card holder wishing to register a business in Turkey must first obtain a residence permit from the Directorate General of Migration Management. The residence permit must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of registration application. The applicant must also register with the local Trade Registry Office, which requires them to submit a number of documents such as a valid passport, proof of residence in Turkey, and proof of financial capacity to operate the business. After the application is accepted, the applicant must pay the registration fee and obtain a tax identification number from the Turkish Tax Administration.

20. Are there any special requirements or restrictions on travel outside of Turkey for US Citizens or Green Card Holders living in Turkey?

Yes. U.S. citizens and green card holders living in Turkey must register with the Turkish government before they are allowed to travel outside the country. In addition, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all travelers should check the latest travel advisories from the US Department of State before planning any travel outside of Turkey.