How To Get Turkish Citizenship by Investment?

The Türkiye Citizenship by Investment Program, initiated in January 2017, aims to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate growth in the real estate sector. This initiative allows individuals from abroad to make significant economic contributions, which in turn supports the development of Türkiye’s economy.

Positioned strategically at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Türkiye’s unique location enhances its cultural and geopolitical importance. Investors enjoy numerous benefits such as visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries, eligibility for the USA's E-2 Investor Visa after a residency period, and the appealing Mediterranean climate.

This article provides a detailed guide on the process and benefits of obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment. For authoritative and official information, prospective investors should refer to the Investment Support and Promotion Agency of Türkiye's guide on acquiring property and citizenship.

Next, we will explore the specific requirements and the application process for acquiring Turkish citizenship through property investment.

Eligibility and Investment Requirements

To be eligible for the Türkiye Citizenship by Investment Program through real estate acquisition, applicants must meet certain financial and legal criteria. The fundamental requirements are straightforward:

1. Legal Eligibility: Applicants must possess a valid passport and must come from a country that is allowed by Turkish law to purchase property in Türkiye.
2. Financial Threshold: The property purchased must have a minimum value of $400,000 USD. This valuation must be confirmed through an appraisal conducted by an independent surveyor certified by the Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BDDK).

The property must be registered in the applicant's name and this registration must be maintained for at least three years post-purchase. This stipulation is designed to ensure that investments contribute to the economic stability of the country before any benefit in the form of citizenship is granted.

At Capitol Estate, we are equipped to guide our clients through the intricacies of the property selection process. Our expertise ensures that the properties not only meet the legal valuation requirements but are also aligned with our clients' investment goals.

The Property Purchase Process

Purchasing a property in Türkiye that qualifies for the Citizenship by Investment Program involves several critical steps:

• Selection of Property: Identifying a property that meets both the investment criteria and personal or business needs of the investor is crucial. Capitol Estate provides expert advice and options that adhere to legal standards and maximize investment potential.
• Financial Transactions: All financial transactions must be conducted through banks to ensure transparency and legality. This includes the transfer of purchase funds, which must be traceable and verifiable by Turkish authorities.
• Obtaining a Compliance Certificate: After the purchase, a compliance certificate must be obtained from the local Cadastre and Land Registry Office. This certificate is a crucial document that proves the property meets all legal requirements for the citizenship application.

Navigating the property market in Türkiye can be challenging, but with professional assistance from Capitol Estate, investors can ensure a smooth transaction and compliance with all necessary legal frameworks.

Residency and Citizenship Application Process

Once the property purchase has been completed and the Compliance Certificate obtained, the next steps involve securing residency and applying for citizenship:

• Residence Permit Application: Initially, the investor must apply for a Residence Permit. This is a prerequisite for applying for citizenship and involves registering the property and the investor’s address with the local authorities.
• Citizenship Application: Following the issuance of the Residence Permit, the citizenship application can begin. This process includes submitting all necessary documents to the Turkish government, such as proof of investment, property deeds, and the Compliance Certificate.

At Capitol Estate, we provide comprehensive support to our clients throughout this process. From the initial application for the Residence Permit to the final submission of the citizenship application, our dedicated team ensures that all paperwork is accurately prepared and submitted in accordance with Turkish legal standards.

Post-Application Requirements and Benefits

After submitting the citizenship application, the process typically takes three to five months for approval. Successful applicants are granted full citizenship, which includes:

• Visa-Free Travel: Turkish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 destinations worldwide.
• Family Inclusion: Citizenship extends to the applicant’s spouse, dependent children under 18, and children of any age living with disabilities.
• Economic Opportunities: Citizenship offers access to a transcontinental Eurasian hub, positioned strategically between Europe, Western Asia, and the Middle East.

It’s important to maintain the investment for a minimum of three years to fulfill the program requirements. During this period, investors must retain ownership of the property without selling it.