Turkish Citizenship by Investment

At Ketenci & Ketenci, we provide comprehensive legal advisory services for the Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program (TCBI), assisting international investors and their families throughout the entire process with precision, transparency, and regulatory compliance.

Since its launch, the program has successfully attracted thousands of investors worldwide. Our legal team has successfully assisted over 1,000 investors and their families in securing Turkish citizenship through a smooth, end-to-end process.

Our clientele spans a diverse range of backgrounds and nationalities, including individuals from Pakistan, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Algeria, Egypt, Palestine, Morocco, Syria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Malaysia, Bangladesh, China, India, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, the US, the UK, France, Canada, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, Greece, Portugal, Poland, the Caribbean, the CIS countries such as Russia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and various African nations including Nigeria, the Ivory Coast, and South Africa, among others.

With our guidance, clients and their families have successfully obtained Turkish citizenship through property investment, bank deposits, and other alternative avenues.

We understand each of our clients unique needs and specific circumstances, offering tailored advice in accordance with the rules of Turkish immigration law and regulations.

As seasoned immigration lawyers and attorneys in Turkey working internationally for many years, we are well-equipped to assist you and your family in obtaining Turkish Citizenship by Investment.

Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program – 2026 Overview

The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program offers a fast-track route for foreign investors and their families to acquire Turkish citizenship by making a qualifying investment, such as real estate purchase or bank deposit.

The program requires no prior residency, no Turkish language knowledge, and no physical presence in Türkiye. Citizenship is granted for life and can be passed on to future generations.

Legal Framework:

Following amendments to the Turkish Citizenship Code on 18th September 2018, foreign investors meeting any of the following investment criteria can apply for Turkish citizenship, along with their family members:

Investment Options

Applicants may qualify for Turkish citizenship by completing one of the following investment options, each subject to a three-year holding period:

Option (A) involves a property investment of a minimum of $400,000 USD, with a commitment not to sell the property for at least 3 years. This threshold was raised from $250k USD to $400k USD for property investments as of 13th June 2022.

Option (B) requires a minimum deposit of $500,000 USD in a Turkish bank, to be held for at least 3 years. As of January 2022, the funds must be converted to Turkish Lira (TRY).

Option (C) mandates a fixed capital investment of at least $500,000 USD, to be verified by the Turkish Ministry of Industry and Technology.

Option (D) involves purchasing Turkish Government Bonds and Bills worth $500,000 USD, to be held for at least 3 years, as confirmed by the Ministry of Treasury and Finance of Turkey.

Option (E) allows for citizenship through an investment of $500,000 USD in a Turkish real estate investment trust or a Turkish Venture Capital Investment Fund.

Option (F) introduces a new route with a minimum contribution of $500,000 USD into funds determined by the Turkish Insurance and Private Pension Regulation and Supervision Agency, to be kept for at least 3 years in the private pension system.

Turkish citizenship by investment Step-by-Step

Completion of our LSA and KYC Forms
Preparation and collection of the required application documents.
Identifying the eligible investment route with and under our guidance.
Issuance of a Power of Attorney.
Obtaining Turkish Tax Identification numbers.
Opening a new Turkish bank account.
Transfer or deposit of the qualifying investment amount in accordance with program requirements.
Completion and official registration of the investment transaction.
Issuance of a Certificate of Conformity confirming the qualifying investment by the competent authority.
Submission of biometrics and filing of the residence permit application.
Submission of biometrics and filing of the citizenship application following the residence permit stage.
Issuance of the citizenship approvals.
Issuance of Turkish ID cards and passports following final biometric processing.

Turkey Citizenship Scheme Application Timeline

The process from investment completion to the official acquisition of Turkish citizenship typically takes about 3-4 months, followed by the issuance of Turkish ID Cards and Passports for all family members within a week. Biometrics can also be provided at Turkish Consulates globally.

For further, detailed information on the Turkish Citizenship by Investment (TCBI) program and a comprehensive fee quotation for your application, including a full breakdown of costs, please contact us directly.

Benefits of Turkish Citizenship By Investment Program

Türkiye allows dual and multiple citizenship, enabling investors to retain their existing nationalities.
Citizenship is granted for life and may be passed on to future generations.
There is no residency or minimum stay requirement before or after obtaining citizenship.
Eligible family members, including the spouse and children under 18, may be included in the same application.
Turkish citizens enjoy the right to live, work, and reside in Türkiye without restriction.
Access is granted to public healthcare and education systems under the same conditions as Turkish nationals.
The Turkish passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 116 countries, supporting international mobility.
Eligibility for US E2 Treaty Investor Visa following Turkish citizenship acquisition
Türkiye’s strategic location between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East provides long-term lifestyle and business advantages.
The program offers a very structured and timely pathway to citizenship through qualifying investment routes.
Quick issuance of the Turkish Passport within 3-6 months Citizenship extended to all family members following a swift application process
Combining a solid investment with regular income while obtaining a highly sought-after citizenship
No minimum residency requirement in Turkey
Visa-free travel to 116 countries
Eligibility for US E2 Treaty Investor Visa following Turkish citizenship acquisition
Comprehensive medical assistance for life for all family members in Turkish State Hospitals
Inclusion of new Turkey Identity Cards
No requirement to declare wealth or source of investment
Turkey allows Dual & Multiple Citizenships
No compulsory military service for TCBI Applicants
Name Change is possible within the process
Official EU Candidate Country status, with prospective visa-free travel to the EU and all 26 Schengen Zone countries

Eligibility for Turkey Citizenship by Investment Program

The following investment options are officially implemented by the Turkish government as qualifying routes for citizenship:

Purchasing real estate in Türkiye with a minimum value of USD 400,000, subject to a three-year non-sale commitment.
Depositing USD 500,000 into a Turkish bank account, with a mandatory holding period of at least three years.
Investing USD 500,000 in Turkish capital investment funds, real estate investment funds, or real estate investment trusts (REITs) approved by the Capital Markets Board, with a minimum three-year holding period.

Applicants must also maintain a clean criminal record and remain in full compliance with Turkish immigration regulations throughout the process.

Notably, there is no language requirement and no prior residence in Türkiye is required under the investment-based citizenship route.

Tax Overview

Acquiring Turkish citizenship through investment does not automatically create tax residency in Türkiye. Tax residency is determined primarily by physical presence and personal circumstances rather than citizenship status alone. Individuals who do not reside in Türkiye are generally subject to taxation only on income sourced within Türkiye, while those who reside in the country for more than 183 days in a calendar year may be considered tax residents and may be taxed on their worldwide income.

Türkiye maintains an extensive network of double taxation treaties, which may help mitigate double taxation depending on the individual’s situation. Tax treatment varies based on personal circumstances, and professional tax advice is recommended.

Real estate investors should be aware of property tax, rental income tax, and potential capital gains tax when selling the property after three years.

Alternatives to Turkey Citizenship by Investment

If you do not wish to pursue full citizenship through the standard investment thresholds, there are alternative options to obtain legal residency in Türkiye, which may also lead to citizenship over time:

Real estate investments starting from USD 200,000 may qualify applicants for a renewable residence permit, which can serve as a pathway to long-term residency and eventual naturalization.
Marriage to a Turkish citizen, employment-based residence permits, or long-term legal residence may also provide eligibility for citizenship, subject to fulfilling specific conditions.
These alternative routes generally require longer periods of stay and demonstrated integration, such as language proficiency or local ties.

Why Choose Turkey for Citizenship by Investment?

Türkiye has become one of the most strategic and attractive destinations for citizenship by investment, offering a compelling combination of lifestyle, opportunity, and global mobility.

A Muslim-Majority Country with a Western Lifestyle

Turkey is a modern, democratic, and secular nation with a Muslim cultural identity. This unique blend offers a balanced lifestyle that appeals to international investors and families seeking a comfortable and open environment to live and invest in.

Ideal Climate and Family-Friendly Living

With one of the most favorable climates in the world, Turkey provides year-round sunshine, clean air, and diverse living options. From pristine beaches and turquoise coasts to forested mountains and peaceful lakes, the country offers an excellent quality of life for families.

Culinary Excellence and Food Security

Turkey is world-renowned for its cuisine, combining flavors from the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Central Asia. In addition to being a food lover's paradise, the country guarantees national food security and access to healthy, fresh ingredients year-round.

Quality Healthcare and Education

Residents benefit from a well-developed healthcare system with modern hospitals, English-speaking doctors, and affordable care. The country is also home to international schools and universities, especially in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.

Strong Economy and Business Opportunities

Turkey is among the top 20 economies globally and acts as a key hub between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. With a growing market, low barriers to entry, and a vibrant entrepreneurial environment, it offers ideal conditions for doing business or investing.

Global Mobility and Strategic Location

As a G20 and NATO member and EU candidate, Turkey offers strategic advantages. Turkish passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries and benefit from easier access to Schengen visas and long-term travel to countries like the US and UK.

Legal System and Tax Advantages

Turkey offers a stable legal system with strong protections for property and investment. The tax regime is favorable for investors and foreign residents, with no worldwide income tax obligations for non-residents.

Plan Your Future in Turkey

Whether you're seeking a second citizenship, planning to relocate with your family, or looking for a strategic base for global investment, Turkey offers one of the most attractive and well-structured citizenship by investment programs worldwide.

Get in touch with us to learn more about how you can begin your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions – Turkish Citizenship by Investment (TCBI)

Do I need to travel to Turkey to start my citizenship application?

No, physical travel to Turkey is not required to begin your Turkish Citizenship by Investment application. All procedures can be handled remotely through a notarized and apostilled Power of Attorney (PoA), including:

Opening a bank account
Purchasing real estate
Submitting citizenship documents
Completing all related legal procedures

We assist clients worldwide without the need for them to visit Turkey during the initial application process.

Do you offer government-approved properties for Turkish Citizenship?

Yes, we provide a curated selection of Turkish government-approved real estate options suitable for the citizenship program. Our in-house real estate department works exclusively with:

Licensed and reliable developers
New and high-end properties
Projects meeting the legal valuation and title deed criteria

Our legal and property team ensures all due diligence checks are completed before any transaction to safeguard your investment and ensure eligibility for citizenship.

Can I invest in real estate without visiting Turkey?

Yes. You can complete a property investment remotely. We provide end-to-end services including:

Property sourcing and evaluation
Remote title deed transfer
Legal verification of project eligibility
Representation through a Power of Attorney

All legal and property transactions can be handled without your physical presence in Turkey though you are also welcome to visit Istanbul and our offices, and can visit the eligible properties together with our expert team.

Has Turkey changed its official name?

Yes. The country has officially rebranded from "Turkey" to "Türkiye" in international platforms. This change has been recognized by the United Nations and other global institutions.

Can I invest in multiple properties to meet the $400,000 threshold?

Yes. You are allowed to invest in two or more properties, provided that:

The total combined value exceeds $400,000 USD
All properties meet the program’s eligibility criteria (e.g., valuation report, title deed, no restrictions)
The properties are held for at least three years

Is any property worth over $400,000 eligible for citizenship?

Not all. To qualify, a property must:

Have a valid and certified property valuation report
Possess a valid construction/building license
Be free of legal restrictions or mortgages on the title deed

Our legal team ensures your selected property meets all program conditions before proceeding.

Can I earn interest from the bank deposit investment option?

Yes. If you choose the bank deposit route, you can:

Deposit $500,000 in Turkish Lira for a minimum of 3 years
Earn interest income (currently around 15–20% annually depending on bank and term)
Withdraw earnings on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis

We assist with bank account opening, interest rate negotiation, and ongoing compliance.

Is Turkish citizenship valid for life?

Yes. Once granted, Turkish citizenship is permanent and passes on to your future children automatically if born after citizenship is acquired. It is not subject to renewal or expiration.

Can I change my name when I become a Turkish citizen?

Yes. Applicants may legally change their first and last names as part of the citizenship process. The name change must be completed before the application is submitted.

Is there any residency requirement during or after the process?

No. There is no obligation to live in Turkey during the application or after receiving citizenship. You may continue residing abroad without affecting your citizenship status.

How many times do I need to visit Turkey during the process?

While it is ideal to visit once for the initial setup and a second time for biometric registration (fingerprints), your entire application can be processed remotely. If you are unable to travel, we can complete all steps on your behalf.

Who can be included in the same application?

Eligible family members include:

Main investor (applicant)
Spouse
Children under 18 years of age

Children above 18 and parents cannot be included but may apply separately or receive a Turkish residence permit.

Are children born after obtaining Turkish citizenship also citizens?

Yes. Any child born to a Turkish citizen, whether inside or outside Turkey, automatically acquires Turkish citizenship if the parents are married.

Is knowledge of the Turkish language required?

No. There is no language requirement for Turkish citizenship by investment applicants.

What are the tax obligations after acquiring Turkish citizenship?

Turkey does not impose taxes on your foreign income if you reside outside Turkey. You are only taxed on:

Income earned inside Turkey (e.g., rental income from your property)
Capital gains or earnings from Turkish sources

We offer tax planning and advisory services tailored to your case.

Will I be required to perform military service?

No. Male applicants over 22 are exempt from Turkish military service. Male children under 18 may be subject to compulsory service in the future. However, they can legally avoid service by paying a one-time exemption fee (currently around $6,000 USD).

Is Turkish Citizenship by Investment backed by official law?

Yes. The Turkish Citizenship by Investment program is fully regulated and was introduced through the Official Gazette on 18 September 2018. The rules are published and overseen by the Investment Office of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye.

What are the main investment options?

The two most popular investment routes are:

Purchasing property worth at least $400,000 USD
Investing in Real Estate or Private Equity Funds of $500,000 USD and maintain the investment for 3 years

Each option grants you and your eligible family members full Turkish citizenship in approximately 3 to 4 months.

How long does the process take?

From the moment the investment is completed, it usually takes around 90 to 120 days to:

Finalize the application
Receive your Turkish citizenship certificate
Obtain your Turkish passport and ID cards

Is dual citizenship allowed?

Yes. Türkiye allows dual or multiple citizenships. You can retain your existing nationality(ies) and travel on your original passport without any need to renounce.

What is the property tax rate in Türkiye?

A property purchase tax of 4% is applied based on the declared sales value. In practice, this amount is typically split between buyer and seller, meaning a 2% cost for each party.

Is it possible to invest only $200,000 and still get residency?

Yes. While $400,000 is the minimum threshold for citizenship, you may obtain a renewable residence permit in Turkey by:

Investing in real estate valued at $200,000 USD or more
Holding the property legally in your name

This route may later be used for long-term residency or citizenship by naturalization.

Can foreigners buy property in Türkiye?

Yes. Foreign nationals can freely purchase real estate in Türkiye. Properties are fully freehold and can be inherited or sold without restrictions. Turkish law protects foreign property ownership rights.

Can I open a bank account in Türkiye?

Yes. We assist clients in opening Turkish bank accounts remotely through Power of Attorney or with personal presence. Account opening typically takes one working day.

What nationalities can apply?

Most nationalities are eligible. However, citizens of the following countries face restrictions:

Syrians and Taiwanese nationals cannot invest in property but may apply through the bank deposit option
North Korean citizens are not eligible for the program

Is the Turkish passport strong?

The Turkish passport currently ranks 51st globally and provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries, including:

Japan
South Korea
Brazil
Indonesia
Qatar
Bosnia
Montenegro and many other jurisdictions.

Applicants may also apply for long-term visas to the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen countries.

Can US (American) citizens apply for Turkish Citizenship by Investment?

Yes. United States citizens are fully eligible to apply for Turkish Citizenship by Investment without any restrictions. American applicants may obtain Turkish citizenship by fulfilling one of the qualifying investment options, such as purchasing real estate with a minimum value of $400,000 USD or making a $500,000 USD bank deposit in Turkey. The process is straightforward, legally regulated, and typically completed within 3 to 4 months after the investment is finalized. US citizens are allowed to hold dual citizenship under both Turkish and US law. Therefore, American applicants are not required to renounce their US citizenship when acquiring Turkish nationality. From a tax perspective, US citizens should be aware that the United States applies worldwide taxation based on citizenship. However, acquiring Turkish citizenship does not, by itself, create additional tax liabilities in Turkey unless the individual becomes a tax resident in Turkey or earns income sourced from Turkey. Proper tax planning and coordination with US and Turkish tax advisors is recommended. Turkish citizenship offers American investors enhanced global mobility, access to emerging markets, lifestyle and relocation opportunities, and a strategic second passport without residency or language requirements.

Can Chinese citizens apply for Turkish Citizenship by Investment?

Yes, Chinese nationals are eligible to apply for Turkish Citizenship by Investment (TCBI), and many high-net-worth individuals from China have successfully obtained Turkish citizenship through this route. Türkiye offers a streamlined and well-regulated investment citizenship program that does not require any prior residency or language proficiency. Chinese citizens can apply by investing in real estate with a minimum value of $400,000 USD or by placing $500,000 USD in a Turkish bank for a period of at least three years. We have extensive experience advising Chinese applicants and families throughout the process. However, Chinese citizens should note that certain documents, such as birth certificates and marriage certificates, must be translated and notarized in accordance with Turkish requirements. These documents must also be authenticated by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and legalized by the Turkish Consulate in China. Our legal team will guide you through each step, ensuring full compliance and a smooth application process. Once citizenship is granted, Chinese investors may enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 110 countries, access to Türkiye’s strategic business environment, and the ability to include their spouse and children under 18 in the same application.

Case Study: Flexible Application Structure for Chinese Families

Scenario: A Chinese national (husband) applies as the main applicant under the Turkish Citizenship by Investment program and successfully acquires Turkish citizenship through the real estate investment route. His spouse chooses not to apply for citizenship at this stage and instead proceeds with obtaining a Turkish residence permit. This provides her the right to reside legally in Türkiye, with the option to apply for citizenship later if she wishes. This structure offers an ideal solution for families who prefer a phased or selective approach.

Key highlights:

Only one family member, usually the main investor, needs to apply for citizenship.
The spouse can apply for a renewable residence permit without committing to citizenship immediately.
The spouse remains eligible to apply for Turkish citizenship in the future, either through long-term residency or investment, based on her preferences and timing.
This approach is especially beneficial for families from countries like China where dual citizenship policies are restrictive, or where personal or administrative considerations may delay full naturalization.

Why this matters for Chinese investors: For many Chinese families, flexibility in planning citizenship and residency status is important. Türkiye offers a practical path that allows family members to make individual decisions based on personal, legal, or strategic factors. With this approach, Chinese investors can:

Secure Turkish citizenship for the main applicant
Provide legal residence rights for other family members
Maintain alignment with local regulations in China
Keep future citizenship options open without pressure

Our legal team provides tailored guidance for each family member to ensure full compliance with Turkish immigration law while respecting the client’s broader international concerns. For our Chinese clients, we offer dedicated support both in China and in Türkiye. We have a Chinese consultant based in Shanghai and a Chinese-speaking advisor available at our Istanbul office. This allows us to provide seamless communication, culturally sensitive service, and localized support throughout the entire Turkish citizenship or residency application process. Whether you prefer to communicate in Mandarin or need assistance with document translation and legalization, our team is ready to support you every step of the way.

Can citizens of Pakistan, Russia, Nigeria, Iran, or India apply?

Yes. All of the above nationalities are eligible. In fact, Turkish citizenship by investment is especially popular among:

Pakistani and Indian nationals investing in property
Russian nationals (Türkiye remains one of the few accessible CBI programs)
Nigerian citizens, who can apply remotely via Turkish consulates
Iranian and Chinese nationals, subject to careful document review and attestation procedures

We assist clients from all these countries through our specialized regional teams.

How do I begin the Turkish Citizenship by Investment process?

Simply contact our legal team to schedule a consultation. We will assess your eligibility, guide you through investment options, and help you start your application process remotely or in person.

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