Technical Visa May Allow Multiple-Entry 90-day Cumulative Stays

Foreign nationals with Assembly, Maintenance and Service (AMS) visas may now be eligible for multiple-entries and stays up to three months cumulatively over a year, due to an amendment to the regulations. Previously, most consulates issued single-entry AMS visas for stays up to 90 consecutive days. 

Until all immigration officials receive clear guidelines on this change, some officials may or may not grant cumulative stays. It is expected that some immigration officials will not be aware of the change in law for some time. 

The AMS visa requires local entity sponsorship. It is granted to technical workers and permits the assembly, maintenance or service of products entering Turkey such as computer software, hardware, complex machinery, energy equipment and manufacturing equipment. The filing process and documentary requirements vary depending on the consular post. 

What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals 

Foreign nationals and their sponsoring employers should benefit from the possible availability of a multiple-entry AMS visa since it means the same visa may be used for more than one entry into Turkey. 

Employers of AMS visa applicants should contact their immigration professional to ensure they comply with local documentation requirements. 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected]. 

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