Turkish Green Passports May Face Tighter Checks After 2026

Visa-free travel to Europe for holders of Turkey’s green passports may become more complex in the coming years, as the European Union prepares to introduce new digital pre-screening mechanisms. While no immediate restrictions are expected, experts warn that travel procedures will likely become more stringent and less flexible over time.

Teuta Narazan, Co-Founder of Vesta Global, said that new control systems planned by the European Union for 2026 could gradually limit the ease of travel for green passport holders. According to Narazan, although a sudden ban or sweeping policy reversal is unlikely, incremental tightening could significantly change the experience of visa-free travel.

No Sudden Ban Expected, But Rules May Narrow

Narazan emphasized that the EU is not expected to abruptly revoke visa-free access for Turkish green passport holders. However, she cautioned that entry conditions may be interpreted more narrowly in the future, potentially resulting in longer processing times, additional questioning at borders, or stricter enforcement of existing rules.

“There is no indication of an immediate or radical change,” Narazan noted, “but we may see a gradual narrowing of how exemptions are applied, with some countries introducing more restrictive interpretations or longer entry procedures.”

Such developments could reduce the predictability that green passport holders have traditionally relied on, particularly for short-notice or frequent travel.

Rising Schengen Applications and Rejection Rates

Data from the European Union shows that Schengen visa demand from Turkey has continued to rise. In 2024 alone, more than one million Schengen visa applications were submitted by Turkish citizens, with approximately 160,000 rejected.

Although official 2025 data have not yet been released, rising appointment demand and capacity constraints suggest that high application volumes and rejection rates will likely persist. This environment has fueled growing interest in alternative pathways for accessing Europe, especially for those facing repeated refusals or delays.

Experts say the increasing strain on the Schengen system is indirectly affecting green passport holders as well, as overall border scrutiny intensifies.

ETIAS to Introduce Mandatory Digital Pre-Screening

A key change on the horizon is the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which the EU plans to implement in 2026. The system will require travelers with visa-free access to complete a digital pre-authorization process before entering the Schengen Area.

Narazan stressed that ETIAS should not be confused with a visa.

“ETIAS is not a visa application,” she said, “but it does mean that travel to Europe will require prior digital approval. Entry will become a more structured and pre-planned process.”

While the existing rights of green passport holders are expected to remain intact, ETIAS will require additional steps for travelers to complete before departure. These include submitting personal data, travel details, and background information for automated security screening.

As a result, spontaneous travel may become more difficult, and last-minute trips could face administrative hurdles.

Investment-Based Residency Gains Appeal

As uncertainty surrounding visa-free travel grows, interest in residency-by-investment programs — often referred to as Golden Visa schemes — has increased. Narazan noted that such programs offer an alternative route for individuals seeking stable and long-term access to Europe.

Through qualifying investments in real estate or financial funds, applicants can obtain residency rights that extend beyond short-term travel privileges. These programs often include family members and provide flexibility for education, work, and long-term residence planning.

“In an environment where visa processes are becoming less predictable, investment-based residency options are increasingly attractive,” Narazan said.

Investment Thresholds Vary by Country

Golden Visa requirements differ significantly across countries. In Greece, the minimum investment ranges from €250,000 to €800,000, depending on the region and property type. Portugal, which has shifted its focus away from residential real estate, offers residency through investment funds starting at €500,000.

For those seeking lower-cost alternatives, Narazan pointed to Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs, where passport options begin at approximately $200,000. These programs provide broader global mobility, although they fall outside the European Union framework.

Preparing for a Post-2026 Travel Landscape

Narazan concluded that ETIAS and rising Schengen rejection rates are reshaping how Turkish citizens approach travel to Europe, even for those holding green passports.

“With ETIAS expected to come into force in 2026, alternative access routes will remain part of the discussion,” she said. “Anyone planning education, work, or long-term residence in Europe should evaluate multiple scenarios in advance.”

Experts advise travelers to stay informed about regulatory changes, ensure compliance with entry conditions, and consider long-term strategies rather than relying solely on short-term visa exemptions.