In recent years, Turkey has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for investors and entrepreneurs seeking a second citizenship.
Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, combined with a thriving real estate market and a dynamic economy, has made Turkish citizenship by investment a popular choice among global investors.
Introduced in September 2018 and refined through subsequent amendments, Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers a fast-track route to citizenship for individuals and families willing to make qualified investments in the country.
Whether you’re looking for greater global mobility, an alternative residence, or lucrative property investments, this comprehensive guide explains how to obtain Turkish citizenship through investment, its Benefits of Turkey Citizenship, the eligibility requirements, and current property market trends.
Turkey Citizenship by Investment
Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program allows foreign investors to acquire Turkish citizenship by making a qualifying investment in the country’s economy.
The most common route is through real estate acquisition, although other investment options are available. The process is straightforward and efficient, typically granting citizenship within 6–9 months after application submission.
To apply, an investor must:
- Select a qualifying investment option.
- Complete the investment transaction.
- Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility.
- Apply for a residence permit.
- Submit the citizenship application.
The program is open to all nationalities, with no restrictions based on country of origin, and does not require applicants to renounce their current citizenship.
6 Benefits of Turkey Citizenship
Choosing Turkish citizenship by investment comes with a range of personal, financial, and strategic advantages. Here are six Benefits of Turkey Citizenship:
- first Benefits of Turkey Citizenship is Visa-Free Travel: Turkish passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 114 countries, including Asia, Africa, South and Central America.
- second Benefits of Turkey Citizenship is Fast Processing Time: Citizenship can typically be obtained within6–9 months, making it one of the quickest CBI programs globally.
- third Benefits of Turkey Citizenship is No Residency Requirement: Applicants are not required to reside in Turkey before or after obtaining citizenship.
- fourth Benefits of Turkey Citizenship is Dual Citizenship Allowed: Turkey permits dual or multiple citizenships, allowing investors to retain their original nationality.
- fifth Benefits of Turkey Citizenship is Access to a Dynamic Property Market: Investors benefit from Turkey’s flourishing real estate market, with high rental yields and growing capital appreciation potential.
- sixth Benefits of Turkey Citizenship Family Inclusion: The main applicant’s spouse and children under 18 years of age and Disabled dependents (any age) are eligible can be included in the same application, with citizenship rights extended to them.
Investment Requirements for Citizenship in Turkey
To qualify for Turkish citizenship, applicants must make one of several approved investments. The most popular and accessible route is via real estate purchase, although other options exist.
As of 2024, the main investment options include:
- Real Estate Investment: Purchase property worth a minimum of $400,000 USD and hold it for at least 3 years.
The real estate option remains the most popular due to its simplicity, attractive property prices, and potential for rental income or resale after the mandatory holding period.
Individual Cost Calculation for Turkish Citizenship
The total cost of obtaining Turkish citizenship by investment depends on the chosen investment route, associated fees, taxes, and legal expenses. Here’s an estimated total for the real estate route:
- Estimated Total: From $410,000 to $420,000+ USD for a single applicant (excluding optional family members).
Note: These figures are estimates and subject to currency fluctuations, market conditions, and individual circumstances.
Despite inflationary pressures and currency fluctuations, Turkey’s property market remains one of the most accessible in Europe and the Middle East, with strong rental yields and resale potential.
Notable Market Trends:
- Increased demand for newly built and branded residences.
- High interest from Middle Eastern, Russian, and European investors.
- Growing popularity of smart homes and serviced apartments in urban centers.
- Rising property prices, particularly in Istanbul’s business and coastal districts.
Stages of Obtaining Turkey Citizenship by Investment
Acquiring Turkish citizenship through investment is a structured and transparent process, governed by official regulations. Below is a step-by-step outline of the stages involved:
- Selecting the Investment Type:
Applicants must choose a qualifying investment option typically real estate, bank deposit, government bonds, capital investment, or job creation in line with the current legal thresholds. - Opening a Turkish Bank Account:
Before proceeding, the investor must open a bank account in Turkey for the investment transaction, providing valid identification, proof of address, and source of funds documentation. - Completing the Investment Transaction:
The applicant carries out the investment, whether purchasing real estate, transferring funds to a Turkish bank, or making a capital commitment. In property transactions, a formal valuation report from a certified appraiser is mandatory. - Obtaining the Certificate of Conformity:
The respective authority (such as the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change for real estate, or the Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency for deposits) issues a Certificate of Conformity confirming the investment meets the citizenship program’s legal requirements. - Applying for a Short-Term Residence Permit:
Although no physical residency is required, the applicant must hold a valid residence permit at the time of citizenship application. A short-term permit, typically granted within a few days, suffices. - Submitting the Citizenship Application:
The investor, with legal counsel, files the citizenship application at the Provincial Directorate of Civil Registration and Nationality, including personal, financial, and background documents. - Security Clearance and Background Checks:
Turkish authorities conduct a due diligence review to verify the applicant’s clean legal record and source of funds. - Approval of Citizenship and Issuance of Documents:
Upon approval (typically within 6–9 months), the investor and eligible family members are granted Turkish citizenship and issued official ID cards and passports.
Other Ways to Obtain Turkey Citizenship
Aside from investment, Turkish nationality can be obtained through several alternative legal pathways:
- Birth:
Individuals born to at least one Turkish parent automatically acquire citizenship, regardless of the place of birth. - Marriage:
Foreigners married to Turkish citizens can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage, provided the relationship is ongoing and genuine. - Long-Term Residence:
Foreign nationals who have resided legally in Turkey for five uninterrupted years, with proven financial self-sufficiency and no criminal record, may apply for citizenship by naturalization. - Exceptional Circumstances:
Granted in special cases for individuals with significant contributions to Turkey’s economy, culture, or national interests — including renowned scientists, artists, business leaders, and athletes. - Adoption:
Foreign minors adopted by Turkish citizens acquire Turkish citizenship automatically upon adoption.
Turkish Passport Costs
As of 2025, the Turkish passport ranks 45th among the world’s most powerful travel documents, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 114 countries.
Current Passport Fees:
- 10-year passport: $150–$200 USD
- 5-year passport: $100–$130 USD
- Application processing time: Typically, 7 to 14 business days within Turkey
Passports are biometric and meet international travel and security standards, valid for up to 10 years.
Dual Citizenship in Turkey
Turkey permits dual and multiple citizenship under its national laws. Investors acquiring Turkish citizenship are not required to renounce their original nationality unless their country of origin mandates it.
Key Points:
- Dual citizens must inform Turkish authorities of their foreign citizenship for civil registry records” Mandatory disclosure of other nationalities”
- Dual nationals enjoy full rights in Turkey, including property ownership, business operation, and inheritance.
- Military service obligations may apply to male citizens under certain conditions, depending on age and service status in their original country.
This legal flexibility makes Turkey particularly attractive for investors from jurisdictions that tolerate dual nationality.
Who Can Get Turkey Citizenship by Investment
The Turkish CBI program is open to virtually all foreign nationals, subject to the following eligibility criteria:
- Applicants must be 18 years or older.
- Must possess a clean criminal record and clear security background.
- Must be able to prove the legal origin of investment funds.
- Must satisfy one of the approved investment options in full compliance with Turkish law.
- Applicants can include their spouse and dependent children under 18 in the same application, and Disabled dependents (any age) are eligible.
- Restricted nationalities: In rare cases, applicants from certain sanctioned countries (North Korea, Syria) may face limitations, though exemptions exist.
Investment Facts about Turkey Citizenship by Investment
The Turkish CBI program has demonstrated remarkable success since its inception. Here are key facts to know:
- Over 35,000 foreign investors have obtained Turkish citizenship since 2017.
- 95% of applicants choose the real estate investment route, benefiting from strong market demand and rental yields.
- Istanbul accounts for 80% of citizenship-linked property sales, followed by Antalya and Izmir.
- Applicants primarily come from Middle Eastern countries, Russia, China, and Central Asia.
- The program offers one of the fastest application processing times globally, averaging 6–9 months.
- The property resale restriction period was extended to 3 years as of recent regulatory updates in 2022.
Conclusion
Contact Global today for a personalized, confidential consultation and take the first step toward securing your Turkish citizenship and expanding your global footprint.
Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program stands out for its combination of fast-track citizenship, competitive investment thresholds, and strategic global mobility Benefits of Turkey Citizenship.
It offers an efficient, legally secure, and profitable route to a valuable second passport, family security, and enhanced business opportunities.
Whether you’re an investor seeking geographic diversification, global visa access, or a lifestyle upgrade in one of the world’s most dynamic emerging markets, Turkish citizenship is a proven and reliable option.
At Global, we provide bespoke consultancy services for investors worldwide — from property sourcing and legal advisory to application management and post-citizenship services. Our dedicated team ensures a seamless, transparent, and successful citizenship acquisition experience.
FAQs
How much do you need to invest in Turkey to get citizenship?
To qualify for Turkish citizenship by investment, you must invest a minimum of USD 400,000 in real estate. This property must be held for at least 3 years.
Alternative options include capital investment, bank deposits, or job creation, though real estate remains the most popular route.
How long does it take to get citizenship in Turkey by investment?
The standard processing time for Turkish citizenship by investment is 6 to 9 months from the submission of a complete application, including due diligence and security clearance procedures.
If a child was born in Turkey, will they receive Turkish citizenship?
A child born in Turkey does not automatically acquire citizenship unless at least one parent is a Turkish citizen. However, children included in an investor’s approved citizenship application will be granted citizenship alongside their parents.
What taxes must be paid when becoming a Turkish citizen?
There are no special taxes or financial obligations for acquiring Turkish citizenship itself. However, standard taxes apply on real estate transactions, including:
- Title Deed Transfer Tax: Does not detail taxes but implies they apply.
- Annual Property Tax: Real property tax is levied at rates that range from 0.1% to 0.3%, depending on the type of property.
- Capital Gains Tax:
If the property is sold within 5 years, Turkish citizens who own property in Turkey are required to pay property tax.
Additionally, capital gains tax considerations apply when selling certain assets, with exemptions and reductions available to help minimize tax liability.
Is it possible to have dual citizenship in Turkey?
Yes. Turkey allows dual and multiple citizenships. Investors are not required to renounce their original nationality unless their home country mandates it. Dual citizens enjoy full civil rights in Turkey, including property ownership, business operation, and inheritance rights.
Can you get Turkish citizenship by buying property?
Yes, buying property is the most common route to Turkish citizenship by investment. The minimum qualifying real estate investment is USD 400,000, and the property must be retained for at least 3 years
Investors can purchase residential, commercial, or land properties, subject to government-approved valuation.