How to apply for Turkish citizenship

Article 20 of regulation regarding implementation of “the Law for Turkish Citizenship” enacted in 2010 specifying requirements for foreigners to acquire Turkish citizenship, was amended by the presidential decree signed by President Erdogan on 19 September 2018.

As stipulated in Article 20 of the Regulation Implementing the 2010 "Law on Turkish Citizenship", foreigners can acquire Turkish citizenship under certain conditions. These conditions were amended by the Presidential Decree signed by President Erdogan on 19 September 2018. The decree, number 106, was published in the Official Gazette and came into force on that date. 

According to the new decree, foreigners who own real estate in Turkey worth at least USD 400,000 (instead of USD 1 million) can apply for Turkish citizenship. The minimum threshold has been raised from 250,000 USD to 400,000 USD in 2022. 

It is no secret that Turkey has become increasingly attractive to foreign investors in recent years. A stable political climate, booming economy and strategic location have helped make the country a desirable destination for investment. However, foreign investors should be aware that they must meet certain requirements to obtain Turkish citizenship. One of these conditions is a minimum financial investment. In order to obtain citizenship, a foreign investor must make a capital investment of at least USD 500,000 or purchase a property worth at least USD 400,000.

In addition, the investment must be held for at least three years. While these requirements may seem daunting, they are entirely achievable for those who are serious about pursuing Turkish citizenship.

Buying a property is an important life decision. It is a new beginning, a new place to call home or an investment. But what if buying a property could also lead to citizenship? 

That is the case in Turkey. 

The procedure is relatively simple: applicants must submit an application form, a passport photo and (if applicable) a copy of their marriage certificate (if married) to the Turkish government. The owner or investor of real estate in Turkey can obtain Turkish Citizenship along with his spouse, (if married) and any dependants (children) that are under the age of 18 years old.

Once the application is approved, the applicant will be asked to attend an interview. If all goes well, they will receive their Turkish passport in the post shortly afterwards. There are some caveats, such as the property cannot be sold for at least three years after purchase, but for many people the advantages of Turkish citizenship outweigh the potential disadvantages. So if you are thinking of buying a property abroad, consider Turkey as your destination of choice.