Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Turkish Citizenship Application Process
- Özgür Kurucuk
- 11 hours ago
- 3 min read
Applying for Turkish citizenship, particularly through the Turkish Citizenship by Investment (TCBI) program, can be a smooth journey when done correctly. However, many applicants encounter unnecessary delays, rejections, or even financial loss due to mistakes to avoid in the Turkish citizenship application. In this guide, we highlight the most frequent Mistakes in Turkish Citizenship Applications and how you can avoid them with the help of English-speaking lawyers in Istanbul, Turkey, such as Kurucuk & Associates Law Firm.
👉 Learn more here: Mistakes in Turkish Citizenship Applications
Understanding the Turkish Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program
Citizenship by Investment Overview
The Turkish CBI Program allows foreigners to obtain Turkish nationality through real estate purchase, bank deposit, job creation, or government bond investment. The most common options include:
Property Investment – Minimum real estate purchase of $400,000.
Bank Deposit Requirement – $500,000 held in a Turkish bank for 3 years.
Why Applicants Choose the Investment Route
Visa-Free Travel to 110+ countries.
Eligibility for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa.
Access to healthcare, education, and lifestyle benefits in Turkey.
Inclusion of spouse and dependent children.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Turkish Citizenship Application That Lead to Delays or Rejections
Mistake 1: Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Failing to submit the correct documents, translations, or notarizations is the number one cause of rejection.
Missing apostille certifications.
Inaccurate Valuation Reports (Ekspertiz Raporu) for property.
Incorrectly notarized Power of Attorney (POA).
Mistake 2: Misunderstanding Investment Requirements
For real estate purchases, the property must be at least $400,000 and registered with a Title Deed Lock (Tapu Kilidi) for 3 years.
For the bank deposit option, funds must be converted into Turkish Lira through the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey (CBRT), with a Foreign Exchange Purchase Certificate issued.
Mistake 3: Using Unverified Agents or Unlicensed Advisors
Working with unauthorized agents often leads to fraudulent promises, undervalued property sales, or non-compliance with Turkish law. Only licensed Turkish lawyers should handle your application.
Errors Specific to Investment Routes
Property Investment Mistakes
Buying property below the minimum investment threshold.
Not verifying encumbrances such as mortgages or liens at the Title Deed Registry (Tapu Kaydı).
Skipping due diligence before purchase.
Bank Deposit Mistakes
Not blocking funds for the 3-year holding requirement.
Failing to secure the Blockage Letter from the bank.
Depositing funds without converting through the CBRT system.
Job Creation & Capital Investment Errors
Not meeting the minimum 50 employees requirement for job creation.
Inadequate compliance with Ministry of Industry and Technology regulations.
Procedural Mistakes in the Application Process
Missing the Residence Permit Step
Applicants often forget that a short-term residence permit is required before filing for citizenship. Both the main applicant and spouse must provide fingerprints in Turkey.
Submitting Outdated Civil Status or Police Clearance Certificates
Certificates must be issued within the last 6 months.
For non-apostille countries, documents must be legalized at the Turkish Consulate.
Ignoring Due Diligence and Background Checks
False information, undisclosed criminal records, or incomplete financial disclosures will lead to rejection. Compliance, KYC, and AML checks are strict.
Strategic Tips to Avoid Mistakes
Work with English-Speaking Lawyers in Istanbul
Firms like Kurucuk & Associates, a trusted law firm in Turkey, guide clients through every step—from Tax Identification Number applications to citizenship submission.
Keep Track of Regulation Changes
The real estate threshold rose from $250,000 to $400,000.
The YUVAM account is no longer eligible.
Policy updates in 2025 may increase thresholds further.
Prepare for Tax Implications
Property transfer tax (Tapu Harcı) – usually 4%.
Withholding tax on bank deposits – between 10% and 17.5%.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
Benefits of Hiring a Turkish Citizenship Lawyer
Accurate application dossier preparation.
Proper handling of Title Deeds, Valuation Reports, and Certificates of Conformity.
Ensuring compliance with Turkish law and avoiding rejection.
Kurucuk & Associates: Your Trusted Partner
As an Istanbul-based law firm with English-speaking lawyers, Kurucuk & Associates specializes in Turkish Citizenship by Investment. The firm ensures your application is compliant, complete, and strategically positioned for approval.
Avoid Mistakes, Secure Your Turkish Passport
The path to Turkish citizenship is rewarding—but only if done right. Our experienced lawyers in Turkey ensure your application is compliant, smooth, and stress-free. Schedule your consultation today.
