Türkiye Citizenship by Investment: Latest Rules, Pitfalls, and the Role of Legal Advisors

1. Introduction: Why Choose Turkish Citizenship by Investment?

Türkiye’s citizenship by investment (CBI) program has rapidly gained international popularity, offering foreign investors and their families a straightforward path to a Turkish passport—alongside access to a vibrant economy, dynamic property market, and global mobility benefits.
However, the process involves detailed legal procedures, evolving regulations, and common mistakes that can cause costly delays or rejections. This guide covers the latest requirements and the crucial role of legal advisors.

2. Current Rules and Investment Options (2025 Update)

a) Minimum Investment Requirements

• Real Estate Purchase:
  • Minimum USD 400,000 worth of residential or commercial property.
  • Property must not have been sold to another foreigner in the last three years.
• Bank Deposit:
  • Deposit at least USD 500,000 in a Turkish bank for three years.
• Government Bonds:
  • Purchase at least USD 500,000 in Turkish government bonds, locked for three years.
• Job Creation:
  • Create at least 50 full-time jobs for Turkish citizens.
• Venture Capital Investment or REIT Participation:
  • At least USD 500,000 investment.

b) Who Qualifies?

• Primary investor, spouse, and children under 18 are eligible.
• Applicants must have a clean criminal background and valid entry to Türkiye.

3. Step-by-Step Legal Process

Step 1: Investment & Documentation

• Complete qualifying investment (property, deposit, bonds, etc.).
• Obtain valuation report and official receipts for real estate.
• Secure all necessary documents:
  • Passports, birth/marriage certificates, photos, proof of funds.

Step 2: Certificate of Conformity

• Relevant Turkish authority (Tapu Office, bank, ministry) issues a “certificate of conformity” confirming investment meets CBI rules.

Step 3: Residence Permit Application

• Apply for a short-term residence permit for all family members (can be fast-tracked with a lawyer).

Step 4: Citizenship Application

• File the citizenship application with all supporting documents at the Provincial Directorate of Population and Citizenship.

Step 5: Background Checks & Approval

• Security checks and due diligence conducted by Turkish authorities.
• Approval typically in 3–6 months; some cases take longer if documents are missing or need correction.

4. Common Pitfalls and Mistakes

• Buying ineligible property:
  • Not all properties qualify. Avoid projects that cannot provide a valid title deed, correct valuation, or were previously used for CBI.
• Incorrect or incomplete documentation:
  • Untranslated, missing, or unapostilled documents cause major delays.
• Paying in cash or unofficial channels:
  • All transactions must be via Turkish banks and officially recorded.
• Misuse of power of attorney:
  • Improper POA or using unregistered intermediaries can void your application.
• Assuming citizenship is guaranteed:
  • All applications are subject to government approval and background checks.

5. Tax and Legal Considerations

• No requirement to reside or pay Turkish taxes unless you spend more than 183 days/year in Türkiye.
• Global income is not taxed unless you are a Turkish tax resident.
• Inheritance and property taxes apply to real estate holdings.

6. The Importance of Legal Advisors

• Due diligence:
  • Ensure all investments are eligible, legal, and risk-free.
• Document management:
  • Translation, notarization, apostille, and application assembly.
• Dealing with authorities:
  • Lawyers accelerate all steps, prevent errors, and respond to official queries.
• Protecting your rights:
  • Clarify all terms and conditions, and avoid “guaranteed” scams.

7. FAQ

Can I buy several smaller properties to reach the minimum investment?
No. As of 2024–2025, only a single property purchase or multiple properties completed on the same day with a single title deed transfer can qualify.

Can I sell my property after getting citizenship?
You must retain the investment for at least three years; early sale voids citizenship.

Can I include parents or adult children?
No, only spouse and children under 18 qualify automatically.

Stj.Öğr.Esmanur AKTAŞ