What is a Turkish Green Passport? Who Can Obtain It?

The green passport, officially known as the special passport (hususi pasaport), is a special type of passport issued by the Republic of Turkey to certain government officials, former state authorities, and individuals meeting specific criteria. Compared to the standard (maroon) passport, the green passport offers more advantages, such as visa-free travel to many countries, making international trips much easier.

Who Can Obtain a Green Passport?

A green passport is granted to individuals and their family members who meet certain criteria. The eligible groups include:

1. Government Employees and Retirees

• Civil servants working in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-degree positions,

• Retired civil servants from these ranks,

• Former government employees from these ranks who do not work in another job.

2. Former State Officials

• Former members of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM),

• Former ministers.

3. Mayors

• Mayors of metropolitan, provincial, and district municipalities (for the duration of their office).

4. Employees of State-Owned Banks

• Employees working in specific positions at T.C. Ziraat Bankası, Türkiye Halk Bankası, and Türkiye Emlak Bankası.

5. Certain Exporters and Businesspeople

• Company officials who have achieved specific export volumes in the last three years,

• Individuals approved by the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM) for meeting the required export criteria.

6. National Athletes

• Individuals officially awarded the "State Athlete" title.

7. Family Members of Eligible Individuals

• The spouse of the passport holder,

• Children under 25 years old who are still students,

• Disabled or dependent children (without age restrictions).

How to Apply for a Green Passport?

Those who wish to obtain a green passport must complete specific documents and apply to the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs (NVİ).

Required Documents:

✅ Service-Stamped Passport Request Form:

• For employees: A document obtained from the employer, approved within the last 60 days,

• For retirees: A document approved by the Social Security Institution (SGK).

✅ National ID Card:

• Original and a photocopy.

✅ Biometric Photos:

• Two recent biometric photos taken within the last six months, complying with ICAO standards.

✅ Passport Booklet Fee Receipt:

• As of 2025, the fee is 1,135 TL.

✅ Student Certificate (For Children Under 25):

• Must be obtained from e-Government (e-Devlet) or the relevant school.

✅ Previous Passports (If Available):

• Original copies of any previously issued green passports.

✅ Parental Consent Form (For Applicants Under 18):

• A notarized parental approval document.

Once the application is submitted, the passport is delivered within 5-7 business days via PTT (Turkish postal service) to the specified address.

Countries Allowing Visa-Free Travel with a Green Passport

Green passport holders can travel visa-free to over 160 countries. Some of the most popular visa-free destinations include:

European Countries:

• Germany

• France

• Italy

• Spain

• Netherlands

• Switzerland

• Greece

• Belgium

Asian Countries:

• Japan

• South Korea

• Malaysia

• United Arab Emirates (UAE)

American and Latin American Countries:

• Brazil

• Argentina

• Chile

• Panama

African Countries:

• Morocco

• South Africa

However, while many countries offer visa-free entry to green passport holders, they may impose time limitations on stays. For example:

• Schengen countries allow stays of up to 90 days without a visa.

• Japan permits visa-free stays for up to 90 days.

• The UAE allows visa-free travel for up to 90 days.

Important Note: Visa policies may change. Always check official sources or consulates for the most up-to-date travel regulations before your trip.

Advantages of a Green Passport

✅ Visa-Free Travel:

• Provides easy access to numerous countries without requiring a visa,

• Eliminates the hassle of consulate procedures.

✅ Faster Processing at Airports:

• Allows for faster entry through immigration,

• Reduces travel-related administrative burdens compared to visa applications.

✅ Longer Validity Period:

• Generally issued for five years.

✅ Exclusive Privileges:

• Some countries offer VIP lanes and faster clearance for green passport holders.

Disadvantages of a Green Passport

❌ Limited Eligibility:

• Only available to specific professional groups and government employees.

❌ Linked to Employment Status:

• Government employees must return the passport upon leaving their position.

❌ Limited Stay Duration in Visa-Free Countries:

• Most countries restrict visa-free stays to 90 days or less.

Conclusion & Summary

The green passport is a valuable privilege granted by the Republic of Turkey to specific government employees, exporters, former state officials, and select individuals. It provides visa-free travel, expedited processing, and international benefits, making global mobility much easier.

However, it is restricted to eligible individuals, has a fixed validity period, and some countries impose specific limitations on visa-free stays.

Those holding a green passport should regularly check visa policies, renew their passports on time, and ensure they comply with international travel regulations before planning their trips. 📌