Why consider Turkish citizenship through real estate?
The property route may be relevant to foreign investors who want to own eligible real estate in Türkiye while applying for citizenship. A purchase should be assessed for its legal and financial merits independently of any citizenship application. Property values, exchange rates and approval outcomes can change.
The USD 400,000 requirement
The official investment guide states that a foreign national may seek exceptional Turkish citizenship after acquiring eligible real estate worth at least USD 400,000 or the equivalent in foreign currency. A restriction against resale for at least three years must be recorded in the title deed. The competent authority must confirm that the investment meets the program conditions. Citizenship is subject to the authorities’ review and decision.
Can more than one property be used?
Multiple acquisitions may be considered together where the applicable title deed and program rules are met. Do not assume that every residential, commercial or land parcel qualifies: nationality-based acquisition limits, title status, previous ownership, valuation and payment evidence should be checked before any commitment.
Step 1 — appoint a lawyer and review the property
A properly issued power of attorney can allow a lawyer to handle specified transactions. Before paying a deposit, check title ownership, mortgages, liens, zoning, building permissions, seller status and whether the particular acquisition can support the citizenship route.
Step 2 — agree terms and arrange the purchase
A reservation document alone does not establish citizenship eligibility. The purchase structure, any notarised promise of sale and its registration, payment evidence and required official documents should be reviewed against the rules that apply to the transaction. Obtain a Turkish tax number and arrange a bank account where needed.
Step 3 — complete payment and title deed procedures
Make and document payment through the required banking channels. The land registry records the transfer and the three-year no-sale undertaking where the acquisition qualifies. Currency conversion and valuation documentation may be required depending on the transaction; confirm current requirements before transfer.
Step 4 — obtain the conformity certificate
Following the title deed procedure, the competent authority assesses the investment and issues a certificate of conformity if the conditions are satisfied. The review period varies by file and authority; a fixed two-to-three-week outcome cannot be promised.
Step 5 — residence and citizenship applications
Once the required investment confirmation is available, the investor can proceed with the applicable residence and exceptional citizenship procedures. Identity checks, biometrics and in-person attendance depend on the applicant’s circumstances and the instructions of the authorities. Eligible family members may be included under the applicable rules.
Step 6 — identity card and passport
After a positive citizenship decision and completion of civil registration, the new citizen may apply for a Turkish identity card and passport under the relevant procedures. Approval is not automatic merely because a property has been purchased.
How long does the process take?
There is no guaranteed three-to-six-month completion period. Property checks, conformity review, residence steps, security checks and the citizenship decision have different timelines. Plan for document preparation and possible requests for further information.
Legal and financial considerations
Turkish citizenship may provide residence and work rights in Türkiye. Passport travel privileges, taxation, healthcare, education and dual nationality depend on current rules and the person’s other nationality and circumstances. Real estate returns are uncertain; obtain independent tax and investment advice before buying.
How IGA Law Firm can assist
Our team can review eligibility, investigate title and transaction risks, coordinate purchase and title deed documentation, apply for the conformity certificate and guide the subsequent residence and citizenship filings. We assess each family and investment individually.
Source and review date
Legal information reviewed on 14 October 2026. This article is a 2025 guide and should be read with the current official requirements.
