Acquiring Turkish citizenship opens the door to a new life and countless business and social opportunities in a country that uniquely bridges Europe and Asia. For many foreign nationals, the most popular route is the Turkish Citizenship by Investment program, offering a swift path to a second passport.
However, the application process involves complex legal procedures, meticulous paperwork, and strict government timelines. Any mistake or omission can lead to significant delays or even the rejection of your application. This is where working with an experienced Turkish citizenship lawyer is not just an option, but a crucial step for success.
As Aslan Duran Law Firm, this guide will walk you through the requirements, processes, and benefits of acquiring Turkish citizenship, and explain how we can ensure your journey is as smooth and efficient as possible.
Ways to Acquire Turkish Citizenship
Turkish citizenship can be acquired through several legal paths. Each route has its own specific application requirements, processes, and documentation. At Aslan Duran Law Firm, we analyze your unique situation to determine the most suitable path for you and provide expert legal guidance at every stage of the process.
Below are the most common ways to become a Turkish citizen.
Turkish Citizenship by Investment
This is the most popular and expedited program designed for foreign investors. By making a qualifying investment in Turkey, applicants, along with their spouse and children under 18, can acquire Turkish citizenship. The most common option is the purchase of real estate valued at a minimum of US$400,000.
Turkish Citizenship by Marriage
Foreign nationals who have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years and are living together in a genuine marital union can apply for citizenship. The authorities will conduct an investigation to ensure the marriage is legitimate and not one of convenience entered into solely for the purpose of acquiring citizenship.
Turkish Citizenship by Marriage article.
Turkish Citizenship by Residency (Naturalization)
Foreign nationals who have legally and continuously resided in Turkey for five years with a valid residence permit can apply for citizenship through naturalization. Applicants must also demonstrate an intention to settle in Turkey, be of good character, and have a basic proficiency in the Turkish language.
Turkish Citizenship by Descent
Individuals who were born to a Turkish mother or father are considered Turkish citizens by birth, regardless of their place of birth. They can have their citizenship officially registered by applying through Turkish consulates abroad or Population Directorates within Turkey.
Turkish Citizenship by Investment: Requirements and Process (2025 Update)
Among the routes to exceptional acquisition of Turkish citizenship, the “Citizenship by Investment Program” is the most preferred. This program offers foreign nationals who make a significant economic contribution to Turkey—and their families (spouse and children under 18)—the opportunity to become Turkish citizens without language requirements or long waiting periods.
How Much Investment is Required? (Investment Types)
As of 2025, the minimum investment amounts and types to qualify for the Turkish citizenship program are as follows:
- Real Estate Investment: Purchase one or multiple real estate properties (residential, commercial, or land) with a total value of at least US$400,000. A restriction must be placed on the title deed(s) stating that the property cannot be sold for three years.
- Bank Deposit: Deposit at least US$500,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency into a Turkish bank account, with the condition that the funds will not be withdrawn for three years.
- Government Bonds: Purchase at least US$500,000 worth of government bonds, with the condition that they will be held for three years.
- Investment Fund Share: Acquire at least US$500,000 worth of shares in a Real Estate Investment Fund (REIF) or a Venture Capital Investment Fund (VCIF), with the condition of holding them for three years.
- Job Creation: Establish a business and create employment for at least 50 Turkish citizens, as verified by the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Services.
Step-by-Step Application Process: Citizenship in 4 Steps
When guided by a lawyer, the process becomes streamlined and straightforward:
- Make the Investment & Obtain the Certificate of Conformity: First, one of the investments listed above is made. For example, a property is purchased, and the title deed transfer is completed. Afterwards, a “Certificate of Conformity” is obtained from the relevant authority (e.g., the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre) to officially verify that the investment meets the program’s requirements.
- Apply for a Short-Term Residence Permit: To file for citizenship, the investor must hold a valid residence permit. At this stage, a special short-term residence permit is applied for on behalf of the investor and their family, which is typically issued quickly.
- File the Citizenship Application: Once the residence permit is obtained, the Turkish citizenship application is filed with the Provincial Directorate of Population and Citizenship, along with all required documents.
- Application Review and Approval: The application file undergoes a security screening and is then submitted to the Presidency of the Republic of Turkey for final approval. Upon the issuance of the approval decree, the process is complete, and the applicant officially becomes a Turkish citizen.
What are the Main Required Documents?
The main documents required during the application process include (additional documents may be requested based on the specific case):
- Citizenship Application Form
- Valid Passport (with a notarized Turkish translation)
- Biometric Photographs (for each applicant)
- Birth Certificate
- Marital Status Certificate (Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Death Certificate, etc.)
- Documents Proving the Investment (Title Deed, Bank Statement, Certificate of Conformity, etc.)
- Valid Residence Permit Card
Important Note: All official documents issued from outside of Turkey (e.g., birth certificate, marital status certificate) must have an Apostille certification or be authenticated by the Turkish Consulate in the country of issue. They must also be translated into Turkish by a sworn translator in Turkey and notarized.
Turkish Citizenship by Marriage
Marrying a Turkish citizen is one of the most common paths to acquiring citizenship. However, unlike the investment route, this process is based on the authenticity and continuity of the marital union over a specific period. The Turkish authorities meticulously investigate applications to prevent sham marriages entered into solely for citizenship purposes.
- A Marriage of at Least Three Years: The applicant must have been married to a Turkish citizen for a minimum of three years at the time of the application.
- A Genuine Marital Union: The marriage must be ongoing, and the couple must be living together as a family. A formal marriage without actual cohabitation is not sufficient.
- No Threat to National Security: The applicant must not pose any threat to Turkey’s national security or public order.
Foreign spouses who meet these conditions can apply through the local Provincial Directorate of Population and Citizenship. The process typically involves a formal investigation, which may include separate and joint interviews with the couple, to verify the authenticity of the marriage. Following a positive evaluation and security screening, the application is forwarded to the Ministry of Interior for the final decision.
How Long Does the Turkish Citizenship Application Process Take?
The duration of the Turkish citizenship application process varies significantly depending on the application route and the completeness of the submitted file.
- Citizenship by Investment: This is the fastest method. If all documents are in order, the process is typically completed within 3 to 6 months.
- Citizenship by Marriage: Due to the required investigation and interview stages, this process is longer and generally takes between 1 to 2 years.
- Citizenship by Residency (Naturalization): This is the longest path, with processing times ranging from 2 to 5 years, depending on the specifics of the case and the workload of the authorities.
The Role and Importance of a Citizenship Lawyer
The Turkish citizenship application process involves complex procedures and strict legal requirements where errors are not easily forgiven. Engaging an expert lawyer is the most critical factor for success.
- Determining the Correct Application Path: Your lawyer analyzes your specific situation to identify the fastest and most suitable route to citizenship for you and your family.
- Preparing a Flawless Application File: We ensure all required documents, including Apostilled certificates and certified translations, are prepared meticulously and submitted correctly the first time.
- Active Follow-Up of the Process: We proactively track your application through the various government directorates, preventing unnecessary delays and keeping you informed at every stage.
- Minimizing Risks: Working with an experienced lawyer minimizes the risk of rejection due to procedural mistakes, saving you valuable time and money.
Aslan Duran Law Firm – Turkish Citizenship Lawyer and Expert in Ankara
Aslan Duran Law Firm provides comprehensive legal consultancy services to foreign clients and their families who wish to invest in Turkey or start a new life here. From our office in Ankara, the heart of Turkey’s administrative system, we meticulously manage your entire citizenship application process.
Our English-speaking team ensures clear communication, while the strategic oversight of our former judge founding partner provides an unparalleled level of legal integrity and foresight for your application. Contact us today to begin your journey to becoming a Turkish citizen with a trusted legal partner by your side.
While we provide in-depth guidance on Turkish Citizenship by Investment and other routes to obtaining a passport, you can learn more about our full range of services as a leading English speaking law firm in Ankara.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Turkish Citizenship
Can I have dual citizenship after acquiring Turkish citizenship?
Yes, the Republic of Turkey allows for dual citizenship. You are not required to renounce your current citizenship to become a Turkish citizen. However, you should check the laws of your country of origin, as some countries do not permit their citizens to hold a second nationality.
If I become a Turkish citizen, will my sons have to do mandatory military service?
For the Citizenship by Investment program, the rules are quite favorable. If your sons are under the age of 18 when your application is finalized, they are generally exempt from mandatory military service. Likewise, if you (the main applicant) acquire citizenship after the age of 22, you are also exempt.
Do I have to live in Turkey to get or keep my citizenship by investment?
No. One of the most significant advantages of the Turkish Citizenship by Investment program is that there is no minimum residency requirement. You do not have to live in Turkey before, during, or after the application process to obtain or maintain your citizenship.
If I apply for citizenship by investment, can my family get citizenship too?
Yes. When you, as the main applicant, apply for Turkish citizenship by investment, your application automatically includes your legal spouse and all of your children who are under the age of 18 at the time of application.
Do I need to learn Turkish for the Citizenship by Investment program?
No. There is no Turkish language requirement for applicants applying for citizenship through the investment program. This is a key advantage compared to other routes like naturalization by long-term residency.
Our Articles on Turkish Citizenship
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Conclusion
Acquiring Turkish citizenship is a significant life decision and a valuable investment in your future. While the pathways, especially the Citizenship by Investment program, are well-defined, the legal and bureaucratic procedures can be complex and demanding for foreign nationals.
Working with a knowledgeable and experienced legal team is the most crucial factor in ensuring a smooth, efficient, and successful application. At Aslan Duran Law Firm, we are dedicated to being your trusted partner on this important journey, providing clear guidance and professional representation from start to finish.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step towards your new future as a Turkish citizen.