How to Obtain Turkish Citizenship by Investment

Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program is one of the most accessible and rewarding routes out there.

Whether you’re an investor, a business owner, or simply looking for a fresh start, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become a Turkish citizen through investment—step by step.

Why Consider Turkish Citizenship?

Before diving into numbers and documents, let’s look at why more people are choosing Turkey:

• Strategic Location: Turkey connects East and West—giving you access to both Europe and Asia.

• Travel Perks: Turkish citizens can travel visa-free or visa-on-arrival to 110+ countries.

• Business Opportunities: From tourism and real estate to tech and energy, Turkey’s economy is filled with potential.

• Cultural Lifestyle: From ancient ruins to seaside resorts, Turkey offers rich traditions, delicious food, and beautiful scenery.

• Family Inclusion: Your spouse and children under 18 can get citizenship with you.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for Turkish citizenship by investment in 2025, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Meet the minimum investment threshold me set by the government

• Have no criminal record or legal issues internationally

• Complete the investment legally and officially documented

• Hold your investment for at least 3 years (in most cases)

Investment Options for Turkish Citizenship

Turkey offers multiple investment routes—you can choose the one that suits your goals best.

1. Real Estate Investment

Buy property worth at least $400,000 USD (or equivalent in Turkish Lira).

You can invest in:

• Apartments, villas, land

• Commercial buildings

• Multiple properties, as long as the total value qualifies

Key rules:

• Property must not be sold for at least 3 years

• A valuation report must confirm the property’s worth

• The purchase must be registered in the land registry (Tapu)

2. Bank Deposit

Deposit a minimum of $500,000 USD into a Turkish bank.

Conditions:

• Funds must stay in a fixed account for 3 years

• You can earn interest while it’s held

• Deposit can be in USD, EUR, GBP, or Turkish Lira

3. Fixed Capital Investment

Invest $500,000 or more in a Turkish company, machinery, or industrial asset.

This is for serious investors in manufacturing, tech, or local business development.

You’ll need a certificate of investment from the Ministry of Industry and Technology.

4. Government Bonds

Buy $500,000 worth of Turkish government bonds and commit to holding them for 3 years.

You’ll receive regular interest, and the principal is returned after the holding period.

5. Job Creation

Start a business and create jobs for at least 50 Turkish citizens.

You’ll need to register a legal company, pay salaries, and meet local labor laws.

This option shows your long-term commitment to the country.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Turkish Citizenship by Investment

Here’s a simplified roadmap from decision to citizenship:

Step 1: Choose Your Investment Path

Select the route that fits your goals—real estate, banking, capital, or job creation.

Step 2: Open a Turkish Bank Account

You’ll need this to make your investment and pay for any required fees.

Step 3: Get a Tax ID Number in Turkey

This is required for any financial transaction or legal process.

Step 4: Complete Your Investment

Make the purchase, deposit, or transfer. You’ll receive a certificate of eligibility once it’s verified.

Step 5: Apply for a Residency Permit

Before applying for citizenship, you must first apply for temporary residence (short-term permit).

Step 6: Submit Your Citizenship Application

Submit all documents to the Provincial Directorate of Census and Citizenship.

Step 7: Wait for Approval

If your documents are complete and verified, citizenship is usually granted in 3 to 6 months.

Documents You’ll Need

• Valid passport

• Birth certificate

• Biometric photos

• Proof of investment (purchase deed, bank statement, etc.)

• Proof of address

• Marriage certificate (if applying with spouse)

• Children’s birth certificates (for family applications)

• Clean criminal record check

• Health insurance (for residency stage)

How Long Does the Process Take?

Here’s a rough timeline:

Investment Completion 2–4 weeks

Residency Permit 1–2 weeks

Citizenship Processing 3–6 months

Total: 4 to 7 months from start to finish.

Can I Include My Family?

Yes! Your spouse and children under 18 can also apply for citizenship as dependents under your application—with no additional investment required.

Can I Keep My Other Citizenship?

Yes. Turkey allows dual citizenship, so you don’t have to give up your current nationality.

Just be sure your home country also permits dual citizenship to avoid complications.

Do I Need to Live in Turkey to Apply?

No. You can complete the entire process without living in Turkey.

But once you become a citizen, you’ll enjoy full rights—including property ownership, education, and healthcare access—if you decide to move later.

Benefits of Turkish Citizenship by Investment

Here’s a quick list of what you get:

• A Turkish passport

• Visa-free travel to 110+ countries

• Access to public education and healthcare

• Pathway to E-2 visa eligibility for U.S. entry

• Opportunity to live, work, or retire in a beautiful and culturally rich country

Is Turkish Citizenship a Good Investment?

Yes—especially if you’re seeking:

• Global mobility

• A stable and fast-track second passport

• A smart real estate or financial investment

• A family-friendly relocation option

Compared to other citizenship programs, Turkey offers great value with low barriers and fast results.

Conclusion

Turkish Citizenship by Investment is more than just a passport—it’s a doorway to global freedom, business opportunity, and lifestyle flexibility.

With several investment routes, no residency requirements, and one of the fastest approval timelines worldwide, it’s an excellent choice for investors and families alike.

If you’re ready to diversify your options and step into a new future, Turkey could be your next big move.