According to the Citizenship Decree published on December 12, 2023, in the “Turkish Official Gazette” under No. 32397, several provisions regarding the acquisition of citizenship by foreign citizens have been amended. Turkish citizenship is granted to foreigners who purchase real estate in Turkey worth at least 400 000 USD.
Types of Citizenship in Turkey:
Сitizenship by Invvestment: In 2023, the Turkish government introduced a new accelerated system to become a Turkish citizen. Eligible applicants include anyone who has purchased real estate worth 400 000 USD or more, or deposited 500 000 USD in Turkish banks. Both transactions must remain unchanged for three years. Individuals who invest at least 500 000 USD in fixed capital or employ 50 Turkish citizens are also eligible for citizenship.
Turquoise Card System: Introduced in 2017 under Law No. 6735 “On the International Labor Force.” It allows individuals with skills or achievements in technology, economics, sports, culture, arts, as well as business leaders and investors, to apply for an alternative type of citizenship that grants nearly full rights.
Property Ownership and Residence Permit: Any property owner in Turkey may apply for citizenship provided they have resided in Turkey for at least 4 years within a 5-year period. Article 11 of Law No. 5901 lists the requirements for obtaining continuous residence. There is no minimum property value requirement under this route.
Birth: The simplest way is to be born to a Turkish mother or father. According to Article 1 of Directive No. 403 on Turkish Citizenship, children born to one or both Turkish parents are entitled to immediate Turkish citizenship. If both parents obtain Turkish citizenship, this also applies to their children. Anyone who has lost Turkish citizenship may reapply.
Marriage: Many foreigners have acquired citizenship after 3 years of marriage to a Turkish citizen. Certain conditions apply, including cohabitation, not engaging in behavior harmful to the marriage, and not posing a threat to national security or public order.
Main Steps to Obtain Turkish Citizenship by Investment:
Opening a Bank Account: The account must be opened in a Turkish bank in the investor’s name.
Investment: Complete the required investment transaction, such as title deed transfer, cash payment, government bond/share purchase, etc.
Application for a Residence Permit: Applicants must have a valid residence permit at the time of submitting the citizenship application. However, permit holders may continue to live abroad as long as they wish.
Application for Turkish Citizenship: Once the residence permit is obtained, you may immediately apply for Turkish citizenship. Physical presence is not required during the application process.
Documents Required for Turkish Citizenship (Investment Application):
• Application form;
• Valid passport;
• 4 biometric photos (passport size) for each family member;
• Birth certificate;
• Residence permit or valid tourist visa in your passport;
• If applicable, documents confirming relationship with spouse and children (marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates);
• If applicable, Turkish ID and address of family members in Turkey;
• Tax registration certificate;
• Certificate of conformity/approval;
• Bank statement confirming purchase of at least 400 000 USD;
• Title deed (Tapu) or notarized purchase commitment.
Question: How does the Turkish citizenship application process work?
Answer: If you purchase real estate worth more than 400 000 USD, you must apply to the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (Tapu Office) and request Turkish citizenship. After submission, they review the valuation report and bank transfer documents. The Tapu Office processes the citizenship request within 3–7 days. With this approval, we apply to the Immigration Office the same day. There is no need to wait for an appointment for a long-term residence permit. With this approval and residence permit, we submit the application to the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs the same day. After the title deed application, all processes are handled through a specially developed system at the Citizenship Information Offices in Istanbul and Ankara. Citizenship is granted within 6–9 months.
Q: Does my family also obtain Turkish citizenship?
A: Yes, you may apply for citizenship for yourself, your spouse, and all children under 18 years old (as of the application date).
Q: Can I buy one property for 400 000 USD or several?
A: You may purchase multiple properties totaling more than 400 000 USD. You must apply for each property. The Tapu Office accepts the citizenship application if the declared value exceeds 400 000 USD.
Q: What is the responsibility of the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization?
A: The Ministry verifies the property value stated in the title deed and confirms whether it exceeds 400 000 USD. Licensed appraisers conduct this valuation. The full amount must be paid to the seller via bank transfer.
Q: How is the USD to Turkish Lira exchange rate calculated?
A: The Tapu Office calculates the sale value based on the Central Bank of Turkey exchange rate on the application date.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: It takes approximately 6–9 months. To save time, the government has established a special citizenship office.
Q: Is there any critical ppoit I should know?
A: The Ministry ensures the property value is at least 400,000 USD. Licensed appraisers verify the price and check for price manipulation. A deviation of up to 20% from the sale price may be allowed.
Q: Will my citizenship be granted automatically if I meet all requirements?
A: No. Approval depends on security checks conducted by national security authorities to ensure the applicant poses no threat.
Q: Can I purchase commercial property with rental income and quality?
A: Yes, all types of real estate purchases qualify.
Q: The process seems complicated. Will I receive assistance?
A: The Respect Invest expert team will assist you throughout the entire process.
Q: I do not have time to travel to Turkey. How can I apply?
A: If you grant power of attorney to Respect Invest, we can handle the entire process on your behalf.
Q: How many people can apply under one Tapu?
A: Only one main applicant with first-degree family members.
Q: I previously purchased in Turkey at the required value. Can I apply now?
A: Yes, you may apply if your purchase meets the current requirements of the investment program.
Q: Must I renounce my current citizenship?
A: No. Turkish law allows dual or multiple citizenship. However, you must check your home country’s legislation, as some countries do not recognize dual citizenship or impose restrictions.
Q: Will I need to complete military service?
A: There are several options. If your child obtains citizenship before age 18, they must complete military service upon reaching conscription age. In cases of dual citizenship, military service completed in the other country may be recognized with proper documentation. Individuals over 22 should consult the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs.
Q: Which countries' citiens can apply?
A: Citizens of all countries eligible to purchase property in Turkey for the required amount may apply after making the investment.
Q: Do you parents or children over 18 receive citizenship?
A: No.
Q: What about my d'sabled child over 18?
A: If the child is unable to care for themselves, they may be included in the application with supporting official documentation.
Q: Is it mandatory to live in Turkey?
A: No.
Q: Must I bring my entire family to Turkey at any stage?
A: No. Only the main applicant must be present with the required family documents.
Q: Is there an interview or test?
A: No.
Q: Can I work or do business in Turkey?
A: Yes. However, for professions such as doctors, lawyers, etc., it is necessary to register with the competent bodies of these professional associations to obtain special equivalence certificates.
Q: What documents are required?
A: Respect Invest will assist you in preparing all necessary documents after purchasing property through our company.
Q: The citizenship application process can take up to nine months. Will I receive a residence permit during the application process?
A: Yes. A residence permit (No: 6458/31-J) is issued to you and your family on the same day after property approval, without waiting time.
Q: How can I get Turkish citizenship without taking into account my original citizenship now (stateless)?
A: If you purchase property worth at least 400,000 USD, you may apply with an official document confirming stateless status (issued by the United Nations).
