What is a Blue Card?
The Blue Card is an identity document issued to persons who are Turkish citizens by birth but later renounce their Turkish citizenship and their children. While Blue Card holders can benefit from many citizenship rights in Turkey, they are considered equal to Turkish citizens except for some political rights (such as voting, being elected as a member of parliament).
The Blue Card is regulated under Article 28 of the Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901 and grants residence, work and education rights in Turkey to persons living abroad who have lost their Turkish citizenship.
Who is issued a Blue Card?
The Blue Card is issued to the following people:
- Persons who have voluntarily renounced their Turkish citizenship.
- Children under the age of 18 of persons who renounced Turkish citizenship.
- Children over 18 years of age of persons who renounced Turkish citizenship (Turkish citizens by birth).
- Descendants of persons who have renounced Turkish citizenship (but with certain limitations).
Blue Card holders have almost the same rights as Turkish citizens, but they also have some special rights.
What are the Rights of Blue Card Holders?
Blue Card holders have the following rights
- Indefinite right of residence in Turkey.
- Right to work in Turkey (without the need for a work permit).
- The right to purchase immovable property in Turkey.
- The right to benefit from the social security system.
- The right to health care.
- The right to education and training.
- The right to benefit from tax exemptions applicable to Turkish citizens.
However, Blue Card holders cannot benefit from the following rights:
- The right to vote and be elected.
- The right to become a civil servant.
- The obligation to (and the right to) perform military service.
How to Apply for a Blue Card?
The Blue Card application can be submitted to the consulates of the Republic of Turkey abroad or to the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs in Turkey. The application process consists of the following steps:
- Preparation of Necessary Documents:
- Identity document or passport.
- A document indicating that you have previously renounced Turkish citizenship (Certificate of Renunciation of Citizenship).
- Blue Card application form.
- Passport size photograph (biometric).
- Making an Application:
- The application is made to the Population Directorate in Turkey or the relevant Turkish consulate abroad.
- Evaluation of the Application:
- Documents must be complete at the time of application.
- The competent authorities assess whether the applicant is eligible for a Blue Card.
- Issuance and Delivery of the Blue Card:
- After the application is approved, the Blue Card is issued and delivered to the applicant.
Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents during the application process may result in the rejection of the application or prolong the process.
Documents Required for Blue Card Application
The following documents must be submitted when applying for a Blue Card:
- Blue Card Application Form
- Former Turkish citizenship ID or identity card
- Certificate of Denaturalization
- Passport or identity document of the country of residence
- Biometric passport photo
- Applicant’s birth certificate (where required)
The complete preparation of these documents ensures that the application is completed quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Card
Is it possible to stay in Turkey indefinitely with a Blue Card?
Yes, Blue Card holders can reside in Turkey indefinitely. There is no restriction on the duration of their stay in Turkey.
Is it Necessary to Obtain a Work Permit with a Blue Card?
No, Blue Card holders can work in Turkey without a work permit. However, they cannot be civil servants.
Can Immovable Property be Purchased with a Blue Card?
Yes, Blue Card holders can buy immovable property (house, land, etc.) in Turkey. They have equal rights with Turkish citizens.
Are Blue Card Holders Taxpayers in Turkey?
Yes, Blue Card holders can be taxpayers if they earn income in Turkey. However, they can benefit from some tax exemptions like Turkish citizens.
Can Children of Blue Card Holders Become Turkish Citizens?
Children of Blue Card holder parents are not directly entitled to Turkish citizenship. However, in case the mother or father regains Turkish citizenship, citizenship applications can be made for the children.
Does the Blue Card need to be renewed?
As the Blue Card is valid indefinitely, it does not need to be renewed. However, re-application is required in cases of loss or wear and tear.
Is it Possible to Cancel the Blue Card?
The Blue Card may be canceled in the following cases:
- The person voluntarily requests cancellation.
- The person regains Turkish citizenship.
- The Blue Card was obtained under false or false pretenses.
If the person wishes to return to Turkish citizenship, he/she can apply to the relevant institutions and start the citizenship process.
The Blue Card is an identity document that offers many advantages in Turkey for those who renounce their Turkish citizenship. Applications can be made through Population Directorates in Turkey or Turkish Consulates abroad. While Blue Card holders have many rights such as work and residence, they are only deprived of political rights.
Submitting the application with complete and correct documents will ensure that the process is completed quickly. If you need legal assistance with your Blue Card application, you should consult a specialized lawyer.
