Step-by-Step Turkish Citizenship by Investment Process
- S. A. Jaffri
- 5 minutes ago
- 6 min read
In a world where mobility, stability, and opportunity matter more than ever, Turkish Citizenship by Investment (CBI) stands out as one of the most practical and rewarding pathways to a second nationality. It allows foreign investors to obtain Turkish citizenship through qualified investments such as real estate purchase or bank deposits, while offering a fast-track route to a Turkish passport—often in as little as four to six months.
At Kurucuk & Associates, a distinguished Istanbul-based law firm with English-speaking lawyers, we’ve helped countless families, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals navigate this process with confidence. Our deep understanding of Turkish regulations and hands-on approach ensures every stage — from investment selection to passport collection — is smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step Turkish Citizenship by Investment process, explaining every detail you need to know — from making the right investment to holding your Turkish passport in hand.
Understanding the Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program
What is the Turkey Citizenship by Investment Program?
The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program allows foreign nationals to obtain Turkish nationality by making a qualifying investment in Turkey. It was introduced under Law No. 5901 and implemented through the Turkish Citizenship Regulation, managed by the Ministry of Interior and the Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs.
It’s not merely a legal process — it’s a bridge between your ambitions and new opportunities. For many global investors, it means access to a vibrant economy, global mobility, and the freedom to build a life in one of the most strategically located countries in the world.
Why It’s One of the World’s Fastest Citizenship Options
Speed, simplicity, and flexibility set Turkey apart. There are no language tests, no residency obligations, and no interviews. Once your investment is completed and documents are ready, citizenship approval usually takes 3 to 6 months.
This efficiency makes Turkey’s CBI program one of the most competitive and investor-friendly in the world, especially when combined with the lifestyle, culture, and business potential the country offers.
Legal Foundation and Key Authorities
The process is regulated and transparent, overseen by major state bodies including:
Ministry of Interior
Directorate General of Population and Citizenship Affairs
Directorate General of Migration Management
Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change (for real estate oversight)
Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BRSA) (for bank deposits)
Every step is legally structured — ensuring your investment is protected and your citizenship secure.
Step-by-Step Turkish Citizenship by Investment Process
1️⃣ Choose Your Investment Route
There are several options available, each designed to suit different investor goals:
Real Estate Investment:
Purchase one or more properties worth at least $400,000 USD. A 3-year no-sale restriction is placed on the title deed (Tapu).
Bank Deposit / Capital Investment:
Deposit a minimum of $500,000 USD into a Turkish bank account for three years.
Job Creation:
Establish a business that creates at least 50 full-time jobs for Turkish citizens.
Your lawyer ensures the investment meets legal standards and secures a Certificate of Conformity, confirming compliance with citizenship laws.
2️⃣ Obtain a Property Valuation Report and Title Deed (Tapu)
For real estate investors, the next step is obtaining an official valuation report (Ekspertiz Raporu). This verifies that your property’s market value meets the $400,000 threshold.
The Title Deed (Tapu) is then registered in your name with a three-year restriction, ensuring compliance with Turkish law.
At this stage, your lawyer conducts full due diligence — confirming that the property has no outstanding debts, liens, or legal issues.
3️⃣ Apply for the Turkish Residence Permit
Before applying for citizenship, you must hold a short-term residence permit.
The main applicant and spouse must visit Turkey for fingerprint submission.
This step typically takes 3–4 weeks, allowing legal stay until citizenship approval.
Kurucuk & Associates manages every form, document, and appointment — making this process simple and efficient.
4️⃣ Submit the Turkish Citizenship Application
After your residence permit is issued, your lawyer files your citizenship application with the Provincial Directorate of Civil Registration and Citizenship Affairs.
Documents Required:
Valid passport (translated and notarized)
Birth and marital status certificates
Criminal record certificate
Proof of investment (bank receipts or title deed)
Biometric photos
Power of Attorney (for legal representation)
This application covers not only the investor but also the spouse and children under 18.
5️⃣ Approval & Passport Issuance
Once your background and security checks are complete, the Council of Ministers grants approval. You’ll receive a Certificate of Citizenship, followed by a Turkish ID card and 10-year passport.
From investment to passport, the entire journey typically takes 4–6 months — making Turkey’s program one of the world’s fastest.
Required Documents & Eligibility Criteria for Turkish Citizenship Application
Eligibility
To qualify, you must:
Invest at least $400,000 (real estate) or $500,000 (bank deposit)
Be of good character, with a clean criminal record
Pass background and financial compliance checks
Hold your investment for a minimum of 3 years
Document Checklist
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
Passport (notarized & translated)
Birth certificate and family record
Marital status certificate
Criminal record clearance
Biometric photos (white background, 50x60 mm)
Power of Attorney (PoA)
Proof of investment (valuation report, bank receipts, Tapu)
Family Inclusion
Your spouse and children under 18 are included in the same application. Each family member receives their own Turkish ID and passport, ensuring a complete relocation solution for families seeking long-term stability.
Investment Options Explained
Legal and Financial Aspects
A successful application requires careful legal and financial structuring:
Minimum Investment:
$400,000 (real estate) or $500,000 (deposit).
Holding Period:
3 years — no sale or withdrawal.
Taxes:
4% property transfer tax, 10–17.5% withholding tax on deposits.
Due Diligence:
Government background checks ensure full compliance.
Legal Fees:
Vary depending on the investment type and family size.
Kurucuk & Associates ensures complete accuracy — from valuation reports to Tapu registration, protecting your interests every step of the way.
Benefits of Turkish Citizenship by Investment
Dual Citizenship:
Keep your existing nationality while enjoying Turkish rights.
Global Mobility:
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 110+ countries.
Access to U.S. E-2 Visa:
Turkish citizens can apply for the E-2 Investor Visa to live and do business in the U.S.
Tax & Lifestyle Benefits:
Turkey offers favorable tax laws, world-class healthcare, and quality education — at a reasonable cost.
Family Security:
Citizenship extends to your spouse and children under 18, ensuring long-term stability and peace of mind.
Common Challenges & How to Avoid Them
Incomplete paperwork:
Missing documents or uncertified translations can delay your case.
Scams and unauthorized brokers:
Avoid offers below the legal threshold — these often lead to rejections.
Valuation errors:
Always work with certified valuation companies and trusted legal advisors.
At Kurucuk & Associates, we ensure full legal compliance, transparency, and accuracy so your investment is secure and recognized by Turkish authorities.
FAQs – Real Answers to Investor Questions
How long does it take to get Turkish Citizenship by Investment?
Most investors receive citizenship approval within 4 to 6 months.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, your spouse and children under 18 are eligible under the same application.
Is the $400,000 property rule still valid in 2026?
Yes, the minimum real estate investment threshold remains $400,000.
Can I sell my property after 3 years?
Yes, once the restriction period ends, you’re free to sell or reinvest.
What are the main risks?
Inaccurate documentation or unverified property valuations can cause delays. Always work with licensed, experienced lawyers.
Why Choose Kurucuk & Associates
Kurucuk & Associates is a respected Istanbul-based law firm with a proven record in Turkish Citizenship by Investment. We’ve successfully represented investors from Qatar, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, ensuring seamless navigation through Turkish legal systems.
Our team handles every stage — from bank account setup to final passport delivery — with professionalism, clarity, and care. We pride ourselves on our honest guidance, transparent processes, and commitment to client success.
Start Your Turkish Citizenship by Investment Journey Today
At Kurucuk & Associates, our experienced lawyers guide you through every legal, financial, and procedural step to secure Turkish Citizenship with confidence.
📞 Contact us today for a private consultation and begin your path toward a new nationality, global opportunities, and a life in Turkey.
