Can You Get Turkish Citizenship by Buying Property?
- Özgür Kurucuk
- Oct 8
- 4 min read
In 2026, Turkish Citizenship by Buying Property continues to be one of the most reliable, profitable, and straightforward ways for global investors to secure a Turkish passport. As an authority in Turkish Citizenship Law, Kurucuk & Associates, a leading law firm based in Istanbul, has guided countless foreign investors through every legal and procedural stage of this high-value opportunity — ensuring compliance, security, and peace of mind.
This comprehensive guide explains how the Turkish Citizenship by Investment (TCBI) program works, focusing on the real estate investment route, updated regulations, step-by-step processes, and the advantages of becoming a Turkish citizen through property ownership.
With the vision to empower investors worldwide, Kurucuk & Associates proudly says:
“Turkish Your Investment” — turn your property into citizenship and your investment into opportunity.
Overview: Turkish Citizenship by Investment in 2026
Turkey’s citizenship framework, governed by Law No. 5901 and its subsequent regulations, offers investors multiple routes to acquire nationality. Among these, property investment stands as the most popular option — allowing qualified foreigners to obtain Turkish citizenship by purchasing real estate valued at a minimum of USD 400,000 (or equivalent in Turkish Lira).
The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program is internationally recognized for its:
Fast-track processing (typically 6–9 months)
Inclusion of family members (spouse and children under 18)
No mandatory residence requirement
Access to over 110+ visa-free and visa-on-arrival destinations
The Real Estate Investment Route: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Legal Engagement & Power of Attorney
The process begins with a Legal Services Agreement between the investor and Kurucuk & Associates, defining the scope, confidentiality, and responsibilities. Once executed, a Power of Attorney (PoA) is issued either in Turkey or through a Turkish Consulate abroad to authorize the firm to represent the client throughout the process.
Step 2: Tax Number & Bank Account
Every applicant must obtain a Turkish Tax Identification Number and open a bank account in Turkey. This step ensures legal traceability of funds and compliance with Turkish banking regulations, including Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) checks.
Step 3: Property Selection and Valuation
Investors can purchase one or multiple properties whose total appraised value meets or exceeds USD 400,000.A licensed property valuation company prepares an official valuation report (Ekspertiz Raporu) confirming the property’s market value.
Due diligence is critical here — verifying clear title deeds, absence of encumbrances, and registration eligibility for the citizenship program.
Step 4: Currency Conversion and Investment Confirmation
Funds must be transferred from the investor’s personal account abroad to their Turkish bank account, then converted into Turkish Lira through the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey (CBRT) system. The bank issues a Foreign Exchange Purchase Certificate (Döviz Alım Belgesi) and a Blockage Letter, proving the investment meets the program’s conditions.
Step 5: Title Deed Transfer & 3-Year Restriction
After completing the purchase, a Title Deed (Tapu) is registered in the investor’s name with a 3-year no-sale annotation (Tapu Kilidi). This restriction is mandatory to maintain eligibility under the Citizenship by Investment Regulation.
Step 6: Certificate of Conformity
Once the property transaction is finalized, the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change issues a Certificate of Conformity, verifying compliance with the Turkish Citizenship Regulation. This is a crucial step that certifies the investment’s eligibility.
Step 7: Residence Permit & Citizenship Application
The investor and their spouse must visit Turkey to submit fingerprints for a short-term residence permit, followed by the citizenship application at the Provincial Directorate of Civil Registration and Citizenship Affairs.
The full application package includes notarized and translated passports, marriage and birth certificates, police clearance documents, biometric photos, and the Certificate of Conformity.
Why 2026 Is a Strategic Year to Invest
The year 2026 marks a stable and mature phase for the Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program, with the real estate sector continuing to show strong returns.
Key trends making 2026 an attractive year include:
Resilient Property Market:
Despite global currency fluctuations, Turkish real estate remains a hedge against inflation and offers long-term capital gains.
Potential Threshold Adjustments:
Experts anticipate possible increases beyond USD 400,000 in the coming years — making early investment more cost-effective.
Strong Lira Interest Rates:
Investors opting for alternative bank deposit options still benefit from high Turkish Lira yields while retaining eligibility.
Enhanced Due Diligence Procedures:
Ensuring program integrity, Turkey’s authorities have streamlined processing and strengthened verification systems.
Benefits of Turkish Citizenship
a. Global Mobility
Turkish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries, including Japan, Singapore, Brazil, and South Korea. Additionally, holders of a Turkish passport are eligible to apply for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa, allowing them to live and invest in the United States — a major advantage for non-EU nationals.
b. Family Inclusion
Citizenship extends to the investor’s spouse and children under 18, ensuring full family relocation and residency rights.
c. Dual Citizenship Flexibility
Turkey permits dual citizenship, allowing investors to retain their original nationality — an important distinction from jurisdictions requiring renunciation.
d. Economic & Lifestyle Benefits
Citizens gain full access to Turkey’s healthcare, education, and social security systems, alongside lucrative business and real estate investment opportunities across Europe and Asia.
Kurucuk & Associates — Your Trusted Legal Partner in Istanbul
With deep expertise in Turkish investment law and citizenship applications, Kurucuk & Associates provides end-to-end legal representation, from property due diligence to passport issuance.
Our English-speaking lawyers in Istanbul manage every stage — ensuring compliance with Turkish regulations and delivering a seamless process tailored to your goals.
Whether you are a high-net-worth individual seeking global mobility or an investor exploring property opportunities, our team ensures each step of your citizenship journey is legally sound, transparent, and efficient.
Secure Your Turkish Citizenship by Buying Property in 2026
Investing in Turkish real estate not only provides a second passport but also access to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program offers unmatched flexibility, family inclusion, and dual nationality benefits — making it a cornerstone of modern global residency planning.
For investors looking to buy property in Turkey and obtain citizenship through a trusted legal route, partnering with Kurucuk & Associates ensures every procedural, financial, and legal aspect aligns with Turkish and international standards.
