Turkish Citizenship by Investment & Residency-to-Citizenship Pathway

Turkey continues to attract foreign investors with its strategic location, economic potential, and attractive citizenship-by-investment programs. As of 2025, foreigners who meet certain criteria may acquire Turkish citizenship through real estate or other financial investments. In this article, we explain the process, required documents, legal conditions, and potential risks of this route—alongside the alternative residency-based citizenship path.

1. What Is Citizenship by Investment?

This legal pathway allows foreigners to obtain Turkish citizenship by making qualifying investments. The process is regulated under amendments introduced in 2018 and remains in effect as of 2025.

2. Investment Options for Citizenship

 Real Estate Investment (Most Common Option)

• Purchase property/properties in Turkey worth at least USD 400,000.
• Place a 3-year no-sale restriction on the title deed.
• Pay via bank transfer and obtain an official valuation report.

 Alternative Options:

• Minimum USD 500,000 fixed capital investment,
• USD 500,000 bank deposit in Turkish banks,
• Creation of 50 full-time jobs,
• Purchase of government bonds or investment fund shares.

3. Application Process & Required Documents

Steps:

1. Complete the investment,
2. Gather documents (title deed, valuation, payment proof),
3. Obtain short-term residence permit,
4. Submit citizenship application to the Directorate of Population and Citizenship.

Key Documents:

• Valid passport and notarized translation,
• Turkish tax ID,
• Residence permit card,
• Title deed, appraisal report, payment receipts.

4. Citizenship Through Long-Term Residence

Foreigners who reside legally in Turkey for 5 consecutive years may also apply for citizenship without investment.

Conditions:

• Continuous legal residence for 5 years,
• Proof of intention to stay (e.g., utility bills, bank activity),
• Clean criminal record,
• Basic knowledge of Turkish language.

5. Benefits and Risks

Benefits:

• Turkish passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 110+ countries,
• Full access to healthcare, education, and inheritance rights,
• Entire family (spouse and minor children) may apply together.

Risks:

• Property value must be accurate and market-based,
• Early sale (before 3 years) may cancel citizenship,
• Legal guidance is essential to avoid errors or rejection.

6. Services by Türeli & Ceylan

• Full legal guidance through the entire investment process,
• Document collection and property legal due diligence,
• Coordination with the Land Registry and Immigration Offices,
• Citizenship application submission and follow-up.