Understanding Turkish Citizenship Law: 2025 Guide to Legal Pathways & Investment

Understanding Turkish Citizenship Law: 2025 Guide to Legal Pathways & Investment. Turkey offers multiple legal avenues to acquire citizenship, each grounded in national legislation and overseen by the Ministry of Interior’s General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs. Understanding Turkish citizenship law is crucial for individuals and families exploring Turkish nationality for personal, professional, or investment purposes. This article outlines the core legal principles, pathways to citizenship, application processes, and key updates affecting eligibility in 2025.

Key Principles of Turkish Citizenship Law

Key principles of Turkish citizenship law stem from the Turkish Constitution and the Law No. 5901 on Turkish Citizenship. Citizenship may be granted automatically by birth, or later through legal procedures such as investment, naturalization, or marriage. Fundamental principles include:

• The right to hold dual nationality (unless prohibited by another state)
• Equal treatment of foreign and local applicants under the law
• Legal protection of nationality rights

The 7 Primary Pathways to Turkish Citizenship

1. Citizenship by Birth (Jus Sanguinis)

A child born to a Turkish mother or father, whether in Turkey or abroad, automatically acquires citizenship by birth. This principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood) is central to Turkish nationality law.

2. Citizenship by Investment: The Golden Visa Program

Known as the Golden Visa, citizenship by investment allows foreigners to acquire Turkish nationality through qualifying financial contributions, such as real estate purchase or capital deposit. It’s one of the fastest and most efficient citizenship-by-investment programs globally.

3. Citizenship Through Marriage

Foreigners who have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years can apply for citizenship through marriage, provided the marriage is genuine and ongoing. Cases of fraud or forced marriage are investigated thoroughly.

4. Citizenship by Naturalization (Ordinary Naturalization)

Citizenship by naturalization is available to foreigners who have resided legally in Turkey for at least five continuous years. Applicants must demonstrate good character, sufficient Turkish language skills, and financial self-sufficiency.

5. Exceptional Service Citizenship

Granted to individuals providing exceptional service in fields such as science, sports, culture, or national interest. This route is at the discretion of the Council of Ministers and does not require long-term residence.

6. Citizenship for Stateless Persons and Refugees

Turkey offers a humanitarian path to citizenship for stateless persons and refugees through administrative channels, especially under UN agreements or long-term residency status.

7. Facilitated Naturalization for Special Categories

Special naturalization rules apply to descendants of Ottoman nationals, foreign Turks, and individuals born in Turkey but not automatically granted citizenship. The process is more flexible and expedited.

Recent Changes in Turkish Citizenship Law

2022 Investment Threshold Adjustments

As of 2022, the minimum real estate investment was increased to USD 400,000, and the minimum bank deposit to USD 500,000 for citizenship by investment. These thresholds remain valid in 2025.

Enhanced Due Diligence Requirements

Applicants must pass enhanced due diligence, including background checks, source-of-funds verification, and absence of criminal records.

Digital Application Processes

New technologies introduced in 2024 have streamlined the digital application process, allowing online submissions, status tracking, and integration with e-Government platforms.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

Applicants should consult a legal expert to determine eligibility and select the most appropriate pathway.

2. Document Preparation and Authentication

Required documents include passports, marriage certificates, birth certificates, proof of investment, and clean criminal records. All must be notarized and translated into Turkish.

3. Application Submission and Processing

Applications are submitted to the Provincial Directorate of Population and Citizenship or Turkish consulates abroad.

4. Security Screening and Interviews

The Turkish National Police conducts background checks. In certain cases, applicants are interviewed to confirm their intent and suitability.

What are the Key Requirements for Acquiring Turkish Citizenship Through Investment?

Minimum Investment Amounts and Types

Applicants must meet the following investment thresholds:

• Purchase real estate worth at least USD 400,000 (held for 3 years)
• Deposit USD 500,000 in a Turkish bank for 3 years
• Invest USD 500,000 in government bonds or venture capital funds
• Establish a company employing at least 50 Turkish nationals

Application Process

Investment must be completed first, followed by citizenship application through the Ministry of Interior. Legal guidance is essential to meet procedural and documentation requirements.

Additional Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must not have committed crimes, be a security threat, or violate Turkish laws. Clean background and financial records are crucial.

Investment Maintenance

Assets must be held for a minimum of 3 years. Early liquidation may result in revocation of citizenship or denial of application.

Family Inclusion

Spouse and children under 18 can be included in the same application, provided legal documentation supports the relationship.

Turkish Citizenship with Property Purchase

One of the most popular options, Turkish citizenship with property purchase allows foreigners to buy residential or commercial property for at least USD 400,000. Multiple properties can be combined, and the title deed must state the citizenship intention.

Can I Include Family Members in my Citizenship Application and What are the Requirements?

Eligible Family Members

The applicant may include:

• Spouse (legally married)
• Children under 18 years of age
• Disabled children over 18 (with medical reports)

Requirements for Including Family Members

Proof of relationship, identity documents, birth certificates, and apostilled family records are required.

Additional Notes

Each family member undergoes the same due diligence process. Family inclusion increases legal complexity, making professional assistance essential.

Turkish Citizenship with Bank Deposit

Key Requirements for Citizenship by Bank Deposit

A foreigner must deposit USD 500,000 (or equivalent in TRY) into a Turkish bank for 3 years without withdrawing. The account must be confirmed by the Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BRSA).

Application Process Highlights

• Open a Turkish bank account
• Deposit required funds
• Obtain a conformity certificate from BRSA
• Submit citizenship application

Advantages of Bank Deposit Route

No property purchase or employee hiring required. Returns on deposits are available, and the process is transparent and fast-track.

Important Notes

The funds must be held in a fixed-term account and cannot be withdrawn or transferred for the 3-year period.

Benefits of Turkish Citizenship

Global Mobility and Visa-Free Travel

Turkish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries, with ongoing negotiations for Schengen access.

Access to European Markets

As a candidate for EU membership and part of the Customs Union, Turkey offers favorable trade and mobility conditions.

Strategic Geographic Location

Sitting at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Turkey provides excellent logistical advantages for businesses and travelers.

Quality Healthcare and Education

Citizens receive access to free or subsidized public healthcare and world-class private education institutions.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Documentation Requirements

All foreign documents must be apostilled and translated. Incomplete applications can result in delays or denials.

Language Requirements

For naturalization, applicants must demonstrate basic Turkish speaking ability. Exemptions apply in investment-based citizenship.

Investment Compliance

Violating the holding period or transferring assets prematurely can void citizenship eligibility.

Tax Implications of Turkish Citizenship

Turkish Tax Residency

Citizenship alone does not create tax residency. Individuals who reside in Turkey for more than 183 days in a calendar year become tax residents and are subject to global income taxation.

International Tax Planning

Dual nationals should consult tax advisors to optimize international obligations and avoid double taxation. Turkey has double tax treaties with over 85 countries.

Future Outlook for Turkish Citizenship Law

Potential Program Modifications

While the current system is stable, future adjustments may include higher investment thresholds, stricter vetting, or sector-specific eligibility. Investors should act promptly to secure their status under current terms.

Reach Us for Turkish Citizenship by Investment

If you’re considering applying for Turkish citizenship by investment or exploring alternative legal pathways, our experienced legal team can assist you throughout the entire process. Contact Ongur & Partners for personalized guidance, document review, application assistance, and ongoing compliance advisory. Your citizenship journey begins with the right legal foundation.