Overview of Turkish Citizenship Law In 2025

Turkey’s nationality system is primarily based on the principle that children born to Turkish citizens automatically acquire Turkish citizenship regardless of their place of birth. In addition to this traditional pathway, Turkey has implemented a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program that has evolved significantly since its launch in 2017. This program allows eligible foreign investors to obtain Turkish citizenship by making a qualifying financial contribution to the country’s economy. Turkish Citizenship Law

Recent Amendments and Updates

In response to economic shifts and the need to secure foreign exchange reserves, Turkey has introduced several amendments to its citizenship law. Key changes include:

• Increased Investment Thresholds:
  • The minimum real estate investment has increased from US$250,000 to US$400,000.
  • Other investment options, such as bank deposits, government bonds, fixed capital investments, and investment fund contributions, now require a minimum of US$500,000.
  • These investments must be held for at least three years to retain citizenship benefits.
• Foreign Currency Requirement:
  • Investors must make contributions in foreign currency rather than Turkish Lira. This ensures that foreign funds are exchanged into Turkish Lira through local banks and the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey.
  • For example, deposits and government debt investments must be converted into Turkish Lira upon transfer.
• Clarified Property Criteria:
  • Only properties with structured titles, such as those with condominium ownership, construction servitude, or existing buildings, qualify for citizenship through real estate investment.
  • Unstructured lands or properties without proper building permits are no longer eligible.

These amendments, introduced in recent years with notable updates in 2022 and early 2024, reflect Turkey’s effort to enhance due diligence while streamlining the process for foreign investors.

Investment Pathways

Turkey offers several routes to obtain citizenship through investment, each with its own requirements and benefits. The main options include:

• Real Estate Investment:
  • Purchase property worth at least US$400,000.
  • The property must be held for a minimum of three years.
  • Investors can buy a single property or multiple properties, provided they are registered under the same application.
• Capital Investment Options:
  • Make a fixed capital investment of at least US$500,000.
  • Deposit at least US$500,000 in a Turkish bank account for three years.
  • Invest in government bonds or shares in a real estate investment or venture capital fund with a minimum of US$500,000.
• Job Creation:
  • Establish a business that creates full-time employment for at least 50 Turkish citizens, verified by the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Services.

These investment pathways aim to boost Turkey’s economy while attracting high-quality foreign capital.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

The Turkish CBI program offers several advantages:

• Rapid Processing: Citizenship and a Turkish passport can typically be obtained within three to four months after applying.
• Family Inclusion: The principal applicant can include their spouse and dependent children under 18. In some cases, additional family members can be included.
• Global Mobility: Turkish passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 120 countries, facilitating international travel.
• Dual Citizenship: Turkey allows dual citizenship, so investors do not need to renounce their original nationality.
• No Residency Requirement: Investors are not required to live in Turkey before or after obtaining citizenship.

Drawbacks

Despite its advantages, the program has some challenges:

• Mandatory Holding Period: Investments must be held for at least three years, limiting financial flexibility.
• Currency Volatility: Since investments must be made in foreign currency and converted into Turkish Lira, investors face exchange rate risks.
• Political and Economic Factors: Investors must consider Turkey’s dynamic political climate and economic fluctuations, which could impact property values and investment stability.

Application Process and Required Documentation

The Turkish citizenship by investment application process is straightforward but requires careful documentation. It typically involves:

1. Investment Decision: Choose the preferred investment route (real estate, capital investment, or job creation).
2. Document Collection: Gather required documents, including passports, birth certificates, proof of funds, and a clean criminal record. Real estate investors need additional documents such as a land registry certificate, valuation report, and notarized purchase contracts.
3. Investment Completion: Finalize the investment and obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from the relevant Turkish authority.
4. Residence Permit Application: Apply for a temporary residence permit as part of the citizenship process. Biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs, is collected.
5. Citizenship Application Submission: Submit the completed application and required documents to the appropriate governmental office.
6. Approval and Passport Issuance: Once approved, applicants receive a Turkish passport valid for ten years.

Given the complexities of the process, working with legal and financial advisors specializing in Turkish immigration can be highly beneficial.

Impact on Foreign Investors

Recent changes in Turkey’s citizenship law aim to:

• Enhance transparency and security by strengthening due diligence requirements.
• Attract more foreign direct investment by mandating foreign currency contributions.
• Support the Turkish economy by converting foreign currency into Turkish Lira, boosting local financial institutions.

Government officials emphasize that these measures protect national interests while providing a structured framework for investors. However, some critics argue that political risks and currency fluctuations remain significant considerations for potential investors.

The latest amendments to Turkish citizenship law reflect the country’s commitment to attracting and regulating foreign investment. By increasing investment thresholds, requiring foreign currency contributions, and refining eligibility criteria, Turkey aims to enhance the quality of its Citizenship by Investment program while ensuring economic and political stability.

For investors seeking a second passport with benefits such as visa-free travel, family inclusion, and access to a dynamic Eurasian market, Turkish citizenship by investment remains an appealing option. However, applicants should carefully evaluate potential risks and complexities. Consulting experienced professionals can help navigate the evolving legal landscape and ensure a successful application.