Turkish Passport by Investment: What You Need to Know
- Özgür Kurucuk
- Sep 26
- 4 min read
The Turkish Passport by Investment is one of the fastest-growing opportunities for global investors who want second citizenship and broader mobility. In simple terms, this pathway is directly tied to the Turkish Citizenship by Investment (TCBI) program, which allows foreign investors to acquire Turkish nationality through qualifying investments such as real estate or bank deposits.
Why are you here? Likely because you’re curious about the benefits, requirements, and process of securing a Turkish passport through investment. In this guide, you’ll learn the eligibility criteria, investment routes, costs, legal process, and advantages of holding a Turkish passport, along with expert insights to help you avoid mistakes and make informed decisions.
What is Turkish Passport by Investment?
Definition & Connection to Turkish Citizenship by Investment
A Turkish Passport by Investment is granted once an applicant successfully completes the Turkish Citizenship by Investment program. By meeting the investment threshold (real estate, bank deposit, or business investment), investors become Turkish citizens and gain the right to apply for a Turkish passport.
Why it Matters in Global Mobility
Holding a Turkish passport unlocks visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 110+ countries, including Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and most Latin American nations. It also provides access to a 5-year Schengen visa and eligibility for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa, making it especially valuable for entrepreneurs from non-treaty countries like India and China.
Common Misconceptions Clarified
Myth: You must live in Turkey.
Reality: No mandatory residency is required.
Myth: It takes many years.
Reality: The process can be completed in 6–9 months.
Myth: Only real estate is eligible.
Reality: Bank deposits and job creation are also valid.
How to Obtain a Turkish Passport by Investment
Minimum Investment Requirements
Real Estate Purchase: Minimum $400,000 (property must be held for 3 years; valuation report required).
Bank Deposit Option: Deposit $500,000 in a Turkish bank, converted into Turkish Lira, held for 3 years.
Job Creation: Employ at least 50 Turkish citizens.
Government Bonds or Funds: Minimum $500,000 investment in approved instruments.
Step-by-Step Process
Engagement & Legal Agreement – Hire a licensed Turkish law firm (like Kurucuk & Associates, English-speaking lawyers in Istanbul) to draft the service agreement.
Power of Attorney (PoA) – Issued at a notary in Turkey or at a Turkish consulate abroad.
Obtain Tax ID & Open Bank Account – Required for investment and compliance.
Make the Investment – Real estate purchase or bank deposit.
Certificate of Conformity – Issued by the relevant authority confirming compliance.
Residence Permit – Short-term permit required before citizenship filing.
Citizenship Application Submission – Includes biometrics and complete documentation.
Final Approval & Passport Issuance – Receive Turkish ID and 10-year passport.
Timeline: How Long It Takes
Fast-track via investment: 6–9 months.
Other routes (naturalization/marriage): Several years.
Benefits of Turkish Passport by Investment
Visa-Free Travel Destinations
Visa-free/visa-on-arrival: 110+ countries (Japan, Singapore, Brazil, South Korea).
Schengen: Long-term multiple-entry visas available.
USA Access: E-2 Treaty Investor Visa eligibility.
Business & Real Estate Opportunities
Turkey’s economy sits at the crossroads of Europe & Asia.
Profitable real estate market, especially Istanbul.
Double taxation treaties with 80+ countries.
Family Benefits
Citizenship covers spouse & children under 18.
Access to affordable world-class healthcare.
Education opportunities, including international schools and top universities.
Costs, Legal Process & Documents
How Much Does It Cost?
Real Estate Investment: Minimum $400,000 + 4% property transfer tax.
Bank Deposit Option: $500,000 (TRY conversion, 3-year block).
Legal Fees: Vary depending on services; expect professional representation.
Required Documents
Valid passport (notarized & translated).
Birth certificates (with apostille/consular attestation).
Marriage/divorce certificates if applicable.
Criminal record clearance (recent, apostilled).
Biometric photos (50x60mm).
Power of Attorney.
Legal Steps & Compliance
Due diligence checks by Turkish authorities.
Source of funds verification to comply with AML laws.
3-year no-sale lock on properties or no-withdrawal lock on deposits.
Expert Insights on Turkish Citizenship by Investment
Case Studies & Real-Life Examples
Real Estate Pathway: Investors in Istanbul luxury apartments not only qualified for citizenship but also earned ROI through rental yields.
Bank Deposit Pathway: Investors benefit from high TRY interest rates (30–40% annually), despite currency fluctuation risks.
Mistakes to Avoid
Buying property below $400,000 (valuation report critical).
Using unlicensed agents offering illegal “buyback guarantees.”
Submitting incomplete or unverified documents.
FAQs about Turkish Passport by Investment
How long does the Turkish Passport by Investment process take?
On average, 6–9 months after making the qualifying investment.
Can my family apply with me?
Yes, your spouse and children under 18 are included.
Does Turkey allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Turkey permits dual and multiple citizenships.
Can I sell my property after citizenship?
Only after the 3-year lock period.
Is Turkish Citizenship by Investment recognized internationally?
Yes, Turkey’s program is globally recognized and trusted.
Get Expert Help with Turkish Citizenship by Investment Today
Our experienced team at Kurucuk & Associates, a leading law firm in Istanbul, Turkey, specializes in guiding international investors through the Turkish Passport by Investment process. Contact us for a reliable consultation and start your journey toward a stronger global future.
