How to get Citizenship in Turkey?

Obtaining Turkish Citizenship by Buying Real Estate

With the decisions taken in September 2018, some regulations were made regarding the transition of foreigners to Turkish citizenship. In the investment program that allows foreigners to acquire citizenship with the law that entered into force in 2018, the citizenship fee in Turkey was determined as 250,000 USD.

With the new regulation that will be effective as of 13 June 2022, the minimum purchase amount for the Turkish Citizenship program has been 400,000 USD.

Foreigners who have purchased at least USD 400,000 worth of real estate in Turkey or have made a commitment to purchase a property worth USD 400,000 from a notary will be able to directly become Turkish Citizens.

Applying for Turkish citizenship is a very easy process with the consultancy of reliable experts and with the right legal support. As AxA Property, we are always ready to help you.

Citizenship by Investment

In 2018, the Turkish Government started a new system for those who want to become Turkish citizens.

According to this system, Turkish citizenship is given to foreigners who buy real estate worth at least 400,000 USD or invest at least 500,000 USD in Turkey, provided that their investments are not touched for 3 years.

Those who invest at least 500,000 USD in fixed capital or employ 50 Turkish personnel can also benefit from this system.

Turquoise Card System

Introduced in 2017, the Turquoise card system is a system to attract people such as scientists, artists and athletes to the country and to eliminate the obstacles and lengthy bureaucratic processes that foreign investors and capital owners may encounter in obtaining work and residence permits in Turkey. It is also possible to apply for Turkish citizenship with this system.

Real Estate and Residence Permit Holders

Any property owner who has obtained a 5-year residence permit in Turkey and has spent 5 years of this permit in Turkey without interruption can apply for citizenship. There is no minimum amount for property value.

Citizenship by Birth

It is easiest to register in the registry of the Republic of Turkey by being born within the borders of Turkey to a Turkish mother and a Turkish father.

If a mother and father’s application for Turkish citizenship is approved, this right of application is also granted to children. In addition, those who have lost their Turkish citizenship can also benefit from this right.

Citizenship Acquired Through Marriage

Many foreigners acquire Turkish citizenship after 3 years of marriage to a Turkish citizen. Certain conditions are sought for applicants, such as continuing the marriage within the family unit, refraining from behavior that may harm the marital union, and not presenting a threat to national security or public order.

Required Documents for Turkish Citizenship Application

Preparing documents for citizenship requires special knowledge and experience. We recommend that you seek legal assistance from a lawyer, as each person has different circumstances and status.

Required documents are as follows:

• Application form

• Valid passport

• 4 passport photos of each family member

• Birth certificate

• Residence permit or valid Tourist Visa registered on your passport

• If married, the identity of the spouse and, if any, children under 18 years of age and the original of official documents proving family ties (marriage certificate or birth certificates of children)

• If their relatives are Turkish citizens, photocopies of identity cards and residence addresses in Turkey

• Payment receipt for application

• Valuation report

• Receipt showing that 400,000 USD has been paid

• If the purchased property is under construction or at the project stage; Notarized commitment to purchase property.

Frequently asked questions about How to get Citizenship in Turkey?

1-How long does it take to finalize citizenship procedures?

If the documents required for citizenship applications are complete, the process is completed within 2 to 6 months. The government opened private offices to reduce this time.

2-Do I have to pass any stage or test for citizenship?

No. There is no such test or stage.

3-Will I get citizenship for sure when I fulfill all the requirements?

No. The citizenship approval process is linked to verifying and confirming through national security archives that you do not pose a threat to national security.

4-Which nationalities are accepted for Turkish passport applications?

All citizens who buy real estate in Turkey can apply!

5-Does Turkey allow multiple citizenship?

Yes. On the other hand, you should contact the consulate of your nationality as some countries do not allow multiple citizenship.

6-Can I work in Turkey if my citizenship is accepted?

Yes. However, in professions such as doctors and lawyers, it is necessary to apply to bar associations for a special equivalence certificate.

7-Can I buy more than one real estate to reach the USD 400,000 limit?

You can purchase more than one real estate with a total value of at least 400,000 USD. But you must apply for all of them at the same time.