Citizenship and Residency Through Property Investment in Turkey

Turkey offers attractive options for foreign investors seeking to obtain citizenship or residency through property investment. These programs have made Turkey a popular destination for international buyers who are interested in not only owning property but also enjoying the benefits of Turkish citizenship or residency.

1. Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program

The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program allows foreign nationals to obtain Turkish citizenship by making a significant investment in the country. The most popular route to citizenship under this program is through real estate investment.

Key Features of the Program:

• Minimum Investment Amount: The primary requirement for obtaining citizenship through real estate investment is purchasing property worth at least $400,000 USD. This investment can be spread across multiple properties, as long as the total value meets or exceeds the required amount.
• Property Holding Period: Investors must retain ownership of the property for at least three years. During this period, the property cannot be sold or transferred to another party.
• Citizenship for Family Members: The investor’s spouse and children under 18 years of age are also eligible for Turkish citizenship under this program. There is no additional investment required for family members.
• Dual Citizenship: Turkey allows dual citizenship, so investors do not need to renounce their original nationality.
• Processing Time: The process for obtaining Turkish citizenship typically takes between 3 to 6 months from the time of application.

2. Residency Permit Options for Property Buyers

In addition to citizenship, Turkey also offers residency permits for foreign property buyers. These permits allow investors to live in Turkey and enjoy various benefits, such as access to healthcare and education.

Key Residency Permit Options:

• Short-Term Residence Permit:
• Eligibility: Foreign nationals who purchase property in Turkey are eligible to apply for a short-term residence permit. This permit is initially valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
• Investment Requirement: There is a 200,000 USD minimum investment amount required to obtain a short-term residence permit. Any property purchase qualifies over this value.
• Renewal: The permit can be renewed annually as long as the property is owned by the applicant.
• Long-Term Residence Permit:
• Eligibility: Foreign nationals who have legally resided in Turkey for eight consecutive years on a short-term residence permit may apply for a long-term residence permit. This permit grants indefinite residency in Turkey.
• Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability, good conduct, and adherence to Turkish laws. They must also have continuously maintained their short-term residence permits during the eight-year period.

3. Step-by-Step Guide on Applying for Citizenship or Residency

1. Applying for Turkish Citizenship by Investment:

Step 1: Property Search and Purchase

• Find a Suitable Property: Identify and purchase property or properties with a total value of at least $400,000 USD. Ensure that the property is free from legal encumbrances and complies with all local regulations.
• Obtain a Valuation Report: A certified property valuation report is required to confirm the value of the property. This report must be prepared by a licensed appraisal company.

Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Conformity

• Application: After purchasing the property, apply for a Certificate of Conformity from the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization. This certificate verifies that the investment meets the criteria for citizenship.
• Required Documents: Provide the property title deed (Tapu), valuation report, and proof of payment. The property must be registered with an annotation stating that it will not be sold for at least three years.

Step 3: Apply for a Residence Permit

• Short-Term Residence Permit: Before applying for citizenship, you must obtain a short-term residence permit. This can be done at the local immigration office, using the property purchase as the basis for the application.

Step 4: Submit the Citizenship Application

• Application Submission: Submit your citizenship application to the Provincial Directorate of Civil Registration and Citizenship Affairs. The application can be made on behalf of the main investor and eligible family members.
• Required Documents: The application must include the Certificate of Conformity, residence permit, passport copies, birth certificates, and biometric photos.

Step 5: Background Check and Approval

• Background Check: The Turkish authorities will conduct a background check on the applicant and their family members. This process includes verifying the legality of the investment and ensuring the applicant poses no security risk.
• Approval and Issuance: Once the application is approved, Turkish citizenship is granted, and the new citizens receive their Turkish passports.

1. Applying for a Residency Permit as a Property Buyer:

Step 1: Purchase Property

• Property Acquisition: Purchase a property in Turkey, on investment value, to qualify for a short-term residence permit.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

• Documents: Prepare the necessary documents, including the property title deed (Tapu), passport copies, proof of address in Turkey, health insurance, and a valid visa or entry stamp.

Step 3: Submit the Residence Permit Application

• Application Submission: Apply online through the Directorate General of Migration Management’s website, filling out the application form and selecting the appropriate type of residence permit.
• Appointment: After submitting the application, schedule an appointment at the local immigration office.

Step 4: Attend the Appointment

• In-Person Submission: Attend the appointment in person, bringing all required documents. The immigration officer will review your application and documents.
• Fee Payment: Pay the necessary fees for the residence permit.

Step 5: Receive the Residence Permit

• Processing Time: The residence permit is typically processed within a few weeks. Once approved, the permit card will be mailed to your address in Turkey.
• Renewal: The short-term residence permit can be renewed annually, provided the property is still owned by the applicant.

Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Program and residency permit options provide significant benefits for foreign property buyers. Whether seeking full citizenship or the right to live in Turkey, understanding the requirements and following the proper procedures will help ensure a successful application process. With proper planning and guidance, investors can enjoy the advantages of Turkish citizenship or residency, making their investment in Turkish real estate even more rewarding.