How Do I Get Turkish Citizenship by Marriage?

Turkish citizenship by marriage is governed under Law No. 5901, which specifies the conditions under which a foreign national may apply for citizenship after marrying a Turkish citizen. However, marriage alone does not automatically grant citizenship.

To become eligible, a foreign spouse must:

• Be married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years.
• Maintain a legitimate and ongoing marital relationship.
• Avoid engaging in any activity that threatens national security or public order.

The process starts with an application to the Provincial Directorate of Civil Registration and Citizenship Affairs. An interview is conducted to ensure the authenticity of the marriage and evaluate whether the couple has a genuine family life.

Can I Live in Turkey If I Marry a Turkish Citizen?

Yes, if you marry a Turkish citizen, you can apply for a Family Residence Permit, which allows you to legally reside in Turkey. This permit is generally issued for one to three years and is renewable as long as the marriage remains valid.

This residence permit is not the same as citizenship. However, it is a necessary stepping stone towards qualifying for Turkish citizenship by marriage. During this period, the authorities assess whether the marriage is authentic and whether the couple genuinely lives together.

How is Turkish Citizenship by Marriage Possible?

Obtaining Turkish citizenship by marriage is a structured legal process. After completing three years of continuous marriage with a Turkish citizen, you may apply for citizenship. The application includes:

1. Proof of legal marriage.
2. Documentation confirming cohabitation and a shared life.
3. Criminal background checks from your country of origin and Turkey.
4. An interview conducted by Turkish authorities.

The goal is to establish the validity of the marital relationship and ensure that the applicant is not involved in criminal activity or security threats.

If all goes well, the citizenship is granted by a Presidential decree, upon approval by the Ministry of Interior.

What Are Conditions for Turkish Citizenship by Marriage?

The following are the key conditions:

• Three Years of Legal Marriage: The marriage must be officially recognized and recorded.
• Cohabitation: You must live together with your spouse. Separate residences may raise suspicions of a fraudulent marriage.
• No Criminal Background: Clean criminal history both in Turkey and in the applicant’s home country.
• Good Moral Character: You must be seen as a law-abiding, ethical individual.
• No Threat to National Security: Associations with criminal organizations or terrorism will immediately disqualify the application.

Authorities may also require:

• Health checkups.
• Participation in an interview.
• Visits to your residence for inspection.

What If a Turkish Citizen Spouse Dies After the Application for Turkish Citizenship by Marriage?

This is a sensitive but important scenario. If your Turkish spouse dies after the application has been submitted but before the citizenship is approved, the application does not automatically get canceled.

The Turkish authorities will examine whether:

• The marriage was genuine and not for the purpose of gaining citizenship.
• The couple lived together and maintained a family life.

If those conditions are proven, the citizenship application may still be accepted and granted posthumously.

What If the Marriage Ends Based on a Court Decision After Acquiring Turkish Citizenship by Marriage?

Once Turkish citizenship is legally granted, it generally remains permanent. However, if the marriage ends in divorce after gaining Turkish citizenship, the following scenarios may arise:

• If the authorities find that the marriage was fraudulent, the citizenship can be revoked by court order.
• If the marriage was genuine, the acquired citizenship will likely remain valid.

Divorce alone does not lead to the loss of citizenship unless it’s proven that the marriage was only for immigration purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I get Turkish citizenship by marrying a Turkish citizen?

Yes, you can. However, you must be married for at least three years, live together, and pass a security and moral character assessment. Citizenship is granted only after verifying the authenticity of the marriage.

Q2: What are the conditions for Turkish citizenship by marriage?

You must:

• Be legally married for at least three years.
• Live in a shared household.
• Have no criminal record.
• Prove good character and integration into Turkish society.
• Not pose any threat to public order or national security.

Q3: Does marrying a Turkish citizen automatically grant citizenship?

No. Marriage to a Turkish citizen does not automatically result in Turkish citizenship. You must go through the legal application process and meet all necessary requirements.

Q4: What happens if the Turkish spouse dies after applying?

The application may still be reviewed and accepted if it is determined that the marriage was genuine. Death of the Turkish spouse does not necessarily cancel the application.

Q5: What if the marriage ends after gaining Turkish citizenship?

If the marriage ends in divorce after the foreign spouse has already been granted citizenship, the status usually remains unaffected unless there’s evidence the marriage was fraudulent. In that case, authorities may initiate a revocation process.

Legal Considerations and Expert Guidance

Navigating the process of obtaining Turkish citizenship by marriage can be complex. Authorities closely scrutinize applications to prevent fraud. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer in Turkey.

They can help with:

• Gathering and translating necessary documentation.
• Representing you during interviews or legal issues.
• Communicating with Turkish immigration offices.

Final Thoughts

For those in a genuine relationship with a Turkish citizen, citizenship by marriage is a viable and rewarding pathway to becoming part of Turkey’s rich cultural and legal fabric. While the process involves several legal checks and evaluations, it ensures that only those with genuine relationships and intentions are granted the privilege of Turkish nationality.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or already in the application process, understanding these rules and seeking expert help can improve your chances of success and ensure a smooth transition to life as a Turkish citizen.

What is Legal Basis for Residency by Property Purchase in Turkey?

The legal foundation for acquiring residency by property purchase in Turkey is outlined in Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection and the Regulation for the Implementation of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection. According to Article 31 of the law, foreign nationals who purchase real estate in Turkey have the right to apply for a short-term residence permit, which can later be extended.

The Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) oversees this process. It grants legal authorization to foreigners to reside in Turkey as long as they meet the conditions set out by the government.

What Are Legal Requirements of Residency by Property Purchase in Turkey?

To obtain a residency permit by property acquisition, applicants must fulfill specific legal criteria:

Ownership Proof

You must provide the title deed (Tapu) registered under your name. The property must be residential, and it should be ready for use.

Legal Entry

You must enter Turkey through legal means. Overstaying a visa or entering unlawfully can disqualify you.

Health Insurance

Valid health insurance that covers the duration of your stay is mandatory for all applicants.

Criminal Record

Applicants are typically expected to have no criminal record in their country of origin or Turkey.

Address Registration

You are required to register your address with the local civil registry.

How Much Do I Need to Invest in Turkey to Get Residency by Property Purchase in Turkey?

Unlike the citizenship-by-investment program which requires a $400,000 investment, residency can be obtained with a much lower budget. There is no fixed minimum investment amount for a short-term residence permit. In practice, most applicants invest at least USD 200,000, depending on the property’s location and quality.

Cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Ankara are popular among foreigners, but less expensive regions like Alanya, Mersin, or Bursa are also great options for cost-effective residency applications.

What Are the Criteria That the Property Must Meet?

To qualify for residency by property purchase in Turkey, the property must satisfy certain criteria:

Type of Property

The property must be zoned for residential purposes. Agricultural or commercial properties generally do not qualify unless proven to be habitable.

Legal Documentation

It should be officially registered with a title deed (Tapu) in your name.

Habitability

The property must be suitable for living and should pass basic municipal inspection standards.

One Owner Rule

Multiple individuals can co-own a property, but only one person can apply for residency under each ownership record.

Family Residency

Your spouse and dependent children under 18 can also apply for residency based on the same property.

How Long Can You Stay in Turkey If You Own a Property?

With an approved residency by property purchase application, you can stay in Turkey for up to one year, with the possibility of annual renewals. After eight years of uninterrupted residency, you may be eligible for long-term residence.

Some key benefits include:

• Living in Turkey full-time or seasonally
• Access to education and healthcare
• Opening bank accounts and utility subscriptions

Residency status does not automatically allow work; a separate work permit is required.

After the Obtaining Residency by Property Purchase in Turkey, Can I Sell or Rent the Property?

Yes, you can sell or rent the property after obtaining residency, but certain conditions apply:

Selling

You are allowed to sell the property; however, selling it may affect the renewal of your residence permit. If you no longer own the property, your basis for residency may be invalidated.

Renting

Renting out the property is generally permitted, provided it complies with municipal laws. You may need to declare rental income and pay related taxes.

How Can I Know My Chance of Success for Residency by Property Purchase in Turkey?

Success depends on several factors:

• Your compliance with legal and procedural requirements
• Proper documentation
• Type and location of the property
• Accuracy of address registration
• No legal violations or overstay history

Consult a Legal Advisor

To ensure a higher chance of success, consult an English-speaking lawyer in Turkey or a specialized residency consultant. They can pre-check your eligibility and help with documentation.

Use of Law Firms

An experienced international law firm can assist with background checks, verifying property documents, and streamlining the application process with Turkish authorities.

How to Apply for Residency by Property Purchase in Turkey?

Step 1: Buy the Property

Choose a legally eligible residential property and complete the sale. Ensure that the Tapu (title deed) is registered under your name.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Prepare the necessary documents, including:

• Valid passport and entry stamp
• Health insurance
• Title deed
• Four biometric photos
• Turkish tax number

Step 3: Online Application

Visit the DGMM e-ikamet system (https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr/) and fill out the short-term residence permit application form.

Step 4: Choose Appointment Date

Select an appointment date with the local Immigration Office. The time and place will be confirmed by the system.

Step 5: Attend Appointment

Go to your appointment with original documents and payment for residence fees. Fees vary depending on your nationality and duration.

Step 6: Await Decision

If approved, your residence card will be mailed to your registered address. Processing usually takes 2 to 6 weeks.

Final Thoughts

Residency by Property Purchase in Turkey is an efficient and rewarding route for foreign nationals seeking to enjoy life in Turkey legally and comfortably. It requires minimal investment compared to citizenship programs and provides flexible living opportunities. With the right legal guidance and a well-chosen property, your application has a high likelihood of success.

Whether you dream of living in Istanbul’s dynamic heart, Antalya’s beachside, or Cappadocia’s unique landscape, buying property in Turkey opens doors to a vibrant life, business opportunities, and cultural immersion. Take the step today toward making Turkey your second home.

How to become a Turkish citizen by buying a real estate in Turkey

Becoming a Turkish Citizen became a very attractive methodology for many foreigners and international individuals by the reason of the new amendments entered into force with the Turkish Citizenship Law in 2019. The new version of the Turkish Citizenship Law allows foreigners to receive citizenship after buying a real estate in Turkey a value of 250.000 USD.

In addition to buying a real estate option, there is another option to deposit an amount of 500.000 USD to a Turkish bank account for a minimum duration of 3 years allows to the foreigners to receive Turkish citizenship.

According to the new law, any foreigner would able to receive Turkish Citizenship after the purchase of a real estate at the value of a minimum of 250.000 USD. The duration of the application process takes around 3 months after the submission of the related applications and after the related assessments the foreigner can receive a Turkish passport.

According to Turkish Law dual citizenship is applicable for many nationals. Accordingly, the foreigners can benefit from dual citizenship with his  new Turkish citizenship by keeping his original passport.

Besides, the foreign individual can receive residence permits during the assessment of his citizenship application based on his /her citizenship application.

The real estate which would be owned by the foreigner by the purpose of acquisition of citizenship needs to be kept on that foreigner’s name for a minimum of 3 years.

The   value of the real estate needs to be evaluated by the registered real estate evaluation officers and the report needs to be submitted to the deed registry office during the application process.

The suppose and children of the applicant who is under the age of 18 would also benefit from the citizenship acquisition process. For more information call us or send us an email [email protected]