Türkiye Welcomes Chinese Citizens Visa-Free (2026): What This Change Really Means for Travel, Business & Investment
- S. A. Jaffri
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
This is more than just a procedural update—it’s a strategic move that makes travel easier, strengthens economic ties, and opens new doors for investors and entrepreneurs considering Türkiye.
The Legal Decision Behind the Visa Exemption for Chinese Citizens by Turkey
The visa-free policy was introduced through a Presidential Decree published in the Official Gazette on 31 December 2025, and it officially takes effect on 2 January 2026.
Why This Matters Legally
This decision is not temporary or informal. It is firmly based on Article 18 of Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection, which gives the President the authority to determine visa-free entry rules for foreign nationals.
In short, this is a lawfully grounded, transparent, and enforceable regulation.
Who Can Enter Türkiye Visa-Free?
The exemption applies to:
🇨🇳 Citizens of the People’s Republic of China
📘 Ordinary (burgundy) passport holders
Permitted Reasons for Travel
Tourism
Transit through Türkiye
What Is Not Covered
This visa exemption does not apply to:
Employment
Education
Family reunification
Long-term residence
For these purposes, travelers must still apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit.
Understanding the 90 Days Within 180 Days Rule
Chinese citizens may stay in Türkiye up to 90 days within any 180-day period, without applying for a visa.
Important Reminder
This is a rolling calculation, not based on calendar months
Overstaying—even unintentionally—can result in:
Administrative fines
Entry bans
Deportation proceedings
Being mindful of entry and exit dates is essential.
Visa Exemption Summary Table (Visa-free Entry in Turkey for Chinese Citizens)
Category | Details |
Eligible Country | People’s Republic of China |
Passport Type | Ordinary (Burgundy) |
Visa Requirement | Not Required |
Purpose | Tourism & Transit |
Maximum Stay | 90 Days within 180 Days |
Legal Basis | Law No. 6458, Article 18 |
Effective Date | 2 January 2026 |
Why Türkiye Introduced This Policy for Chinese Citizens
Tourism Growth
Türkiye aims to make travel simpler for Chinese tourists, encouraging:
More frequent visits
Longer travel itineraries
Increased spending across tourism sectors
Business & Trade Mobility
Visa-free entry allows Chinese professionals to:
Attend meetings
Explore markets
Build partnerships
—all without the delays of visa applications.
A Gateway for Investors
For many investors, visa-free travel is the first step, not the final goal. It allows them to:
Conduct due diligence
Explore real estate
Assess business opportunities
before moving toward long-term legal status.
From Short Visits to Long-Term Stay in Türkiye
It’s common for visitors entering visa-free to later consider:
Residence permits
Company establishment
Work permits
Why Citizenship by Investment Becomes Relevant
Permanent legal residence
Family inclusion
Business security
Global mobility benefits
Visa-free entry makes planning easier—but status changes still require proper legal steps.
Key Legal Points You Should Not Overlook Being Chinese and Traveling Visa-free to Turkey
Visa-free entry does not grant residence rights
Staying longer than allowed can affect:
Future residence applications
Citizenship eligibility
Re-entry to Türkiye
Transitions must be handled before overstaying
Professional legal advice ensures a smooth and compliant process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Visa-free Entry of Chinese Citizens in Turkey
When does the visa exemption officially begin?
On 2 January 2026.
Does this apply to diplomatic or service passports?
The regulation specifically covers ordinary passport holders.
Can I stay for 90 days continuously?
Yes—provided you do not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
Is business travel allowed under this exemption?
Short-term business visits are acceptable; employment is not.
Can I work in Türkiye visa-free?
No. A work permit is still required.
Can I apply for a residence permit while in Türkiye?
Yes, if you apply before exceeding the allowed stay.
What happens if I overstay?
You may face fines, entry bans, or deportation.
Does this affect Turkish citizenship rules?
No changes to thresholds—but planning becomes easier.
Is this visa exemption permanent?
It remains valid unless amended or revoked by a future decision.
Should I seek legal advice before long-term planning?
Absolutely. Early planning avoids costly mistakes.
A Welcome Change, With Clear Legal Boundaries from Turkey to Chinese Citizens
Türkiye’s visa-free policy for Chinese citizens reflects a modern, open, and strategic approach to international mobility. While travel is now easier, long-term goals still require legal structure and careful planning.
Need Professional Legal Support? Kurucuk & Associates Is Here to Help
Whether you are:
visiting Türkiye for the first time
exploring business or investment opportunities
planning residence or Turkish citizenship
Kurucuk & Associates offers trusted, English-speaking legal services in:
Immigration & residence permits
Company formation
Investment structuring
Turkish Citizenship by Investment
📩 Contact Kurucuk & Associates' Turkish immigration lawyers today for clear, compliant, and personalized legal guidance—so your journey in Türkiye starts on the right legal foundation.