How to Get Turkish Citizenship: Step-by-Step Process Explained
- Özgür Kurucuk
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
Gaining a second citizenship is an important decision that combines legal procedures, strategic investments, and long-term benefits. Turkey has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for investors, families, and entrepreneurs seeking global mobility, business opportunities, and quality of life. In this guide, we explain How to Get Turkish Citizenship through different pathways, focusing on Turkish Citizenship by Investment (TCBI) — the fastest and most popular option.
At Kurucuk & Associates, a leading Law Firm in Turkey based in Istanbul with English-speaking lawyers, we specialize in providing end-to-end legal representation for investors worldwide.
Why Choose Turkish Citizenship?
Visa-Free Travel and Global Mobility
Access to over 110 countries with visa-free travel or visa on arrival.
Long-term Schengen visa opportunities.
Pathway to the U.S. E-2 Visa Treaty, a major advantage for investors from non-treaty countries.
Strategic Location and Lifestyle Benefits
A bridge between Europe and Asia, perfect for entrepreneurs.
High-quality yet affordable healthcare and education.
Right to live, work, and study in Turkey without restrictions.
Dual Citizenship Advantage
Turkey allows dual citizenship, enabling applicants to retain their original nationality (subject to home country laws).
Pathways to Turkish Citizenship
Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program allows foreign nationals to fast-track their citizenship in 3–9 months without residency or language requirements.
Investment Options
Property Purchase Option
Purchase property worth at least $400,000.
Title deed registered with a 3-year no-sale annotation.
Mandatory Valuation Report (Ekspertiz Raporu) from licensed companies.
Property transfer tax (Tapu Harcı) at 4%, often paid by the buyer.
Bank Deposit Option
Deposit $500,000 in a Turkish bank.
Funds converted into Turkish Lira through the Central Bank of Turkey (CBRT).
Three-year holding requirement with high interest rates (30–40% annually depending on bank).
Requires Foreign Exchange Purchase Certificate and Blockage Letter.
Other Options
Fixed Capital Investment ($500,000+).
Government Bonds purchase.
Job Creation for 50+ Turkish citizens.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Legal Services Agreement
A formal engagement letter is signed with Kurucuk & Associates to define scope, fees, and confidentiality.
Step 2: Power of Attorney (PoA)
If in Turkey: Issued at a notary office with translator assistance.
If abroad: Executed at a Turkish consulate or a local notary (with Apostille).
Step 3: Tax Identification Number (TIN)
Essential for all banking and investment processes in Turkey.
Step 4: Open a Turkish Bank Account
Enables bank deposit option or transferring funds for property purchase.
Step 5: Make the Investment
Property purchase or bank deposit according to eligibility criteria.
For property: Lawyer conducts due diligence on liens, mortgages, or encumbrances.
For bank deposit: Funds converted into TRY via CBRT system.
Step 6: Certificate of Conformity
Issued by relevant authorities (e.g., BRSA for bank deposit, Ministry of Environment for real estate).
Step 7: Obtain Residency Permit
Short-term Turkish residence permit is required before applying for citizenship.
As of 2024, main applicant and spouse must provide fingerprints in Turkey.
Step 8: Citizenship Application Submission
Filed before the Provincial Directorate of Civil Registration and Citizenship Affairs.
Includes notarized and translated documents:
Passport
Birth and marital status certificates
Police clearance (criminal record)
Biometric photos
Step 9: Biometric Data and Final Approval
Main applicant and spouse must provide fingerprints.
Citizenship certificate and Turkish National ID (Kimlik Kartı) are issued.
Applicants can then obtain a 10-year Turkish passport.
Required Documents
For Main Applicant
Passport (translated & notarized).
Birth certificate and civil status certificate.
8 biometric photos.
Police clearance with Apostille or Consular attestation.
Power of Attorney.
For Spouse
Passport (translated & notarized).
Birth certificate.
Police clearance.
8 biometric photos.
For Children Under 18
Passport (translated & notarized).
Birth certificate.
8 biometric photos.
Timeline and Processing
Citizenship by Investment: 3–9 months (fast-track).
Naturalization: 5+ years of continuous residency.
Marriage-based applications: 3+ years of genuine marriage.
Compliance and Risks
Common Pitfalls
Property appraised below $400,000.
Incorrect fund transfers (must be from investor’s personal account).
Incomplete or mistranslated documentation.
Regulatory Updates
Real estate threshold increased from $250,000 to $400,000 in 2022.
YUVAM account no longer valid for citizenship.
Authorities continuously review thresholds and policies (possible future increase).
Why Choose Kurucuk & Associates?
Expertise in Turkish Citizenship Law — specialized legal advisors for investors.
Strong experience in handling Turkish Citizenship by Investment applications.
Full assistance from investment structuring to passport issuance.
Start Your Turkish Citizenship Journey Today
At Kurucuk & Associates, our English-speaking lawyers in Istanbul specialize in guiding international clients through every stage of the Turkish Citizenship by Investment process. From choosing the right investment option to securing your Turkish passport, we ensure a smooth, compliant, and stress-free journey.
