Do all my documents need an Apostille for a Turkish citizenship application?

Yes, if your country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Core documents like your birth certificate, marriage certificate, and criminal record check must have an Apostille certificate to be considered valid by Turkish authorities. This authenticates the document internationally, replacing the need for longer consular legalization chains.

What is the difference between a notarized translation and a certified sworn translation for Turkey?

A simple notarized translation is not sufficient. Turkish law requires translations to be performed by a 'Yeminli Tercüman'—a certified sworn translator officially registered with Turkish courts. Their signature and stamp provide the legal force, and they are personally liable for the accuracy of the translation. This applies to every part of your document, including the Apostille stamp itself.

How long does it take to get an Apostille for Turkish citizenship?

The timeline varies by country. In the United States or United Kingdom, it can typically take between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the state or authority processing it. For non-Hague countries requiring full consular legalization, the process can take several months. At Kurucuk & Associates, we strongly advise starting this process early to avoid delays in your citizenship application timeline.

Where can I get a certified translation for my Turkish citizenship application?

You must use a sworn translator ('Yeminli Tercüman') based in Turkey. While you can search for them individually, our law firm, Kurucuk & Associates, includes this service as part of our comprehensive application package. We have a trusted network of certified translators who are familiar with the specific terminology required by the Population and Citizenship Affairs Directorate, ensuring your documents are accepted without issue.

My country is not in the Apostille Convention. What should I do?

For countries not party to the Hague Convention, a two-step 'consular legalization' process is required. First, your documents must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your home country. Second, they must be certified by the Turkish Consulate or Embassy with jurisdiction over your area. This process is more complex and time-consuming than an Apostille, and our team can manage it entirely on your behalf.

Do I need to Apostille and translate my passport for the application?

Your original passport does not need an Apostille. However, a notarized copy of the biographical page of your passport must be made, and that notarized copy then requires a certified translation into Turkish by a sworn translator.

Are the Apostille and translation rules the same for the investment route?

Yes, the documentary requirements are equally strict across all pathways, including the fast-track Citizenship by Investment program. Whether you are investing $400,000 in real estate or $500,000 as a bank deposit, your personal documents (birth certificate, criminal record, etc.) must be apostilled and certified translated to the same standard. The investment-specific documents, like the Certificate of Conformity, are issued in Turkey and do not require this process.

Apostille & Translation Requirements for Turkish Citizenship Applications in 2026

Özgür Kurucuk
1 minute ago
3 min read

Securing Turkish citizenship by Investment is a transformative decision, opening doors to global mobility, a dynamic economy, and a rich cultural life. However, the journey hinges on one critical, and often complex, first step: preparing your documents. At Kurucuk & Associates, we have guided countless applicants to success, and we can confirm that improperly legalized or translated paperwork is the most common reason for rejection.

This definitive guide for 2026 demystifies the Apostille and translation requirements, ensuring your application starts on solid ground.

Why Apostille and Certified Translation are Non-Negotiable

Turkey is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. This means that to be considered valid, public documents from other member countries must bear an Apostille certificate—a specialized stamp that authenticates the document's origin. Simply having a document notarized is not enough for the Turkish authorities.

Furthermore, every single foreign document, including the Apostille certificate itself, must be translated into Turkish by a certified sworn translator (Yeminli Tercüman). This is not a mere formality; it is a strict legal requirement to ensure all information is accurately presented for official review.

Your Document Checklist: What Needs an Apostille and Translation?

Whether you are applying through the popular investment route, by marriage, or naturalization, the following core documents must be apostilled and certified translated:

Birth Certificate:
Required for every applicant, including dependent children.
Marriage Certificate:
Essential if your spouse is included in the application.
Criminal Record Check (Police Clearance):
This must be recent—typically issued within the last six months—from your home country and any country you've resided in over the past five years.
Passport Bio Page:
A notarized copy of your passport's information page will need a certified translation.
Divorce Decree or Death Certificate:
If applicable, to confirm your current marital status.

Navigating the Apostille Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process varies slightly depending on your country of origin, but the general framework is consistent:

Obtain Original Documents:
Secure official, sealed copies from the relevant government agency (e.g., vital records office for birth certificates).
Submit for Apostille:
Send the original document to the designated authority in your country. In the U.S., this is often the Secretary of State; in the U.K., it's the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Receive the Legalized Document:
The authority will attach the Apostille certificate, making it legally valid for use in Turkey.

What if My Country is Not in the Hague Convention?

For countries not party to the Apostille Convention, a longer process of "consular legalization" is required. This involves authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the document's country of origin, followed by final certification by the Turkish Consulate. Our team at Kurucuk & Associates can manage this complex chain on your behalf.

Certified Translation: Your Bridge to Turkish Authorities

Once your documents are apostilled, the next crucial step is translation. A certified translation for Turkish authorities must be performed by a Yeminli Tercüman who is officially registered with the Turkish courts. Their signature and stamp give the translation its legal force.

This step applies to every word on your document, including seals and the Apostille certificate itself. The translator will provide a bound copy of the original and the translation, certifying its accuracy.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Using Non-Sworn Translators:
Online translation services or uncertified translators are not acceptable and will lead to application rejection.
Expired Criminal Records:
A police clearance certificate that is more than six months old at the time of application is invalid.
Incomplete Document Sets:
For family applications, every member must provide a full, individual set of apostilled and translated documents.
Incorrect Financial Document Translation:
For the investment route, bank letters and transfer receipts must also be translated to prove the funds meet the minimum investment amount.

Ready to Begin Your Journey with Confidence?

Don't let document complexity stand between you and your future. Contact Kurucuk & Associates today for a comprehensive consultation. Let our expertise in Turkish immigration law ensure your application is perfect from the very first document.