How to obtain Turkish citizenship: all methods and requirements

In recent years, the process of obtaining Turkish citizenship has become much more accessible for foreign citizens, leading to a variety of options for acquiring it. Based on data from five years ago, it can be noted that about 70% of applications were submitted for reasons related to marriage or naturalization. Today, however, the situation has changed significantly, and nearly half of the applicants are investors and business owners. In this article, we will take a detailed look at all the available ways to obtain Turkish citizenship, as well as find out what documents may be needed in this process and what advantages Turkish citizenship will provide you.

Conditions for obtaining Turkish citizenship

Turkish legislation (Law No. 5901) provides several methods for obtaining citizenship. The main ways to acquire citizenship include the following:

• NaturalizationThis process requires the applicant to have lived in the country for at least five years with a long-term residence permit, and it is necessary to have a permanent place of residence and a stable source of income.
• InvestmentsOne of the popular options is to purchase real estate for an amount starting from 400,000 US dollars, which also grants the right to apply for citizenship.
• MarriageGetting married to a Turkish citizen is another way to obtain citizenship status.

In addition to the methods mentioned above, we can also include a number of exceptional scenarios, which we will discuss below.

Obtaining citizenship through naturalization

To obtain citizenship through naturalization, several conditions must be met:

• You must reside in Turkey for at least five years.
• During this period, an absence from the country of no more than six months is allowed. If the reason for your absence is medical treatment abroad, this period may be extended.
• It is important to note that the time spent on a student visa is counted at a rate of 0.5, while the period of residence for other reasons is counted in full. Time spent on a tourist visa is not taken into account.

Citizenship through investment

This method of acquiring citizenship is becoming increasingly popular. It involves investing funds into the Turkish economy, for example, through purchasing real estate or starting a business. This option is suitable for both entrepreneurs and those seeking a better quality of life in another country.

Citizenship through marriage

If you are married to a Turkish citizen, this can also be a basis for obtaining citizenship. You must present official documents confirming the marriage and comply with the required duration of cohabitation.

Exceptional cases and nuances

There are also other special circumstances that allow for obtaining citizenship. For example, citizenship can be granted to individuals adopted by Turkish citizens. It is also worth noting that dual citizenship is permitted in Turkey, so you will not need to renounce your original citizenship.

Advantages of living in Turkey

The issue of obtaining Turkish citizenship goes beyond legal aspects. Turkey is a country with a rich cultural heritage, a pleasant climate, and a high standard of living. Many choose this country for living and working due to the low cost of living, beautiful nature, and business opportunities.

Documents for obtaining citizenship

Before applying for citizenship, it is necessary to prepare a complete set of documents: passport, registration certificates, marriage documents (if applicable), as well as financial papers confirming your investments. Careful preparation of these documents will help avoid potential delays and rejections.

Possible reasons for denial of citizenship

Despite the fact that the citizenship application process has become simpler, there are still grounds for a rejection. This can happen due to a lack of documents or the presence of offenses in your history in Turkey.

Responsibility after obtaining citizenship

After successfully obtaining citizenship, it's important to remember that men who become citizens in adulthood may be called up for military service. This aspect should also be considered when making the decision to obtain citizenship.

Thus, although the process of obtaining Turkish citizenship has become more accessible and diverse, it is important to carefully study all the nuances, from choosing the method of acquisition to the complete set of necessary documents. Turkey offers many opportunities for living and doing business, making citizenship in this country quite attractive for foreign nationals.

Ways to legalize your stay in Turkey

For those planning to start a new life in Turkey, it's important to know that there are many ways to legalize your stay in this country. In this article, we will explore the key methods that allow you to be in Turkey legally.

• Acquisition of real estate followed by obtaining a residence permit;
• Opening a new business or relocating an existing one;
• Investing funds in the country's economy;
• Obtaining employment based on an official permit;
• Marriage to a citizen of Turkey;
• Application for citizenship for the whole family;
• Obtaining an education at local educational institutions;
• The presence of close relatives who are citizens of Turkey (parent, brother, sister, or child).

Knowledge of the Turkish language

One of the main requirements is having a sufficient level of proficiency in the Turkish language. There will be no need to take special tests, as the language level will be assessed during the interview with the immigration inspector.

Financial viability

You also need to be able to support yourself and your dependents. Proof of income is not required if you have no funds at the time of application; however, having a sought-after profession will be taken into account by the committee.

Coming of age and legal status

According to the law, you must be of legal age. If you are stateless, the age of majority is determined by the norms of Turkey.

Security check

Your security status should also be positive — you must not pose a threat to public order or national security. This will be verified through appropriate inquiries to the Ministry of Interior of Turkey.

Moral qualities

Moreover, it is very important to demonstrate high moral qualities and to be an honest person. There are no special checks for these character traits; there will only be a few simple questions in the format of a friendly conversation during the interview.

Citizenship through investment

Obtaining Turkish citizenship is possible through investment. Foreigners can participate in a simplified citizenship program within a period of 6 to 12 months. To do this, one of the following conditions must be met:

• Purchase real estatefor an amount of no less than 400 thousand US dollars. It can be sold after three years while retaining the right to citizenship. This is the most common and least expensive method.
• Invest in stocksTurkish companies with at least 500 thousand dollars, which will also allow obtaining citizenship status.
• Create at least 50 jobs.in Turkey.
• Invest from 500 thousand dollars (or an equivalent amount in another currency) as a deposit in a Turkish bank, on the condition that these funds remain in the account for three years.
• Buy government bondsin an amount of no less than 500 thousand dollars.

Choosing the right option

These opportunities allow investors to confidently consider obtaining citizenship and living in the country with legal status. Anyone wishing to live in Turkey can explore the listed options to choose the one that best suits themselves and their family.

Investment opportunities in Turkey

In Turkey, there is a unique approach to investments that involves investing funds in dollar equivalents with the condition that these funds cannot be withdrawn for three years. Private investors have the opportunity to acquire a share in investment or venture funds, with the minimum amount for such an investment being500 thousand US dollars, also with a similar deadline restriction.

Real estate in Antalya

In the real estate market in Antalya, you can find a wide range of properties — over 4,500 listings, with prices starting from175,000 dollarsFor example, new residential complexes that include swimming pools and even cinemas are of interest. The completion of one of these projects is expected to take place inin the year 2025and it includes more406 apartmentsstarting at205,000 dollars.

Resort complexes are also available, built in the rapidly developing area called Belek. The construction is expected to be completed inthe third quarter of 2024Here it is presented60 apartmentsand one of them is offered at a price565,000 dollarsThis property stands out due to the presence of a pool, balcony, and terrace, and is located just a short distance from...a seven-minute walkfrom the beach in Side. The total area of the villa is202 square metersoffering three bedrooms for comfortable living.

Projects in Antalya

You might also be interested in a residence project located near Antalya Airport, managed by a well-known international hotel chain. The completion of this complex is scheduled forthird quarter of 2024and it consists of43 apartmentsThe starting prices begin at233,000 dollarsA new gated residence with income potential is opening in the center of Antalya.20%, available fromspring of 2024where apartments can be bought starting from166,000 dollars.

Don't forget about the project for a private residence with its own pool in Aksu, the construction of which is scheduled for2024 yearHere it is planned36 apartmentswhere the starting price is114,000 dollarsBeach lovers should pay attention to villa complexes with pools in Belek. This area offers...86 optionsthat can also provide the opportunity to obtain Turkish citizenship.

Ways of obtaining citizenship

• Regarding marriage:Foreigners can obtain citizenship by marrying a Turkish citizen. It is enough to live in a legal marriage.three yearsHowever, permanent residence in the country is not mandatory.
• Procedure for addressing:If a foreign spouse is outside of Turkey, they can submit documents at the consulate, provided that the Turkish citizen is present at their place of residence.
• Place of marriage registration:The place of marriage registration doesn't matter in this case.

Citizenship by descent

There is a possibility of obtaining citizenship by descent. Currently, for citizens belonging to Turkic peoples, there is a temporary provision in the Turkish citizenship law. However, there are no special simplifications for them, and such foreign citizens must stay in the country under the general conditions. Belonging to Turkic peoples is considered a positive factor in the decision-making process.

Periodically, special programs are launched in Turkey aimed at granting citizenship to representatives of certain ethnic groups, such as Uyghurs from East Turkestan and Meskhetian Turks.

Obtaining Turkish citizenship

Acquiring Turkish citizenship by birth is an automatic process that takes place at the moment of the child's birth. This process can be classified into two main types: by descent and by place of birth.

Citizenship by descent

Citizenship by descent applies in cases where one of the child's parents is a citizen of Turkey. In such situations, it does not matter whether the parents are officially married or where the child was born. What matters is that one of the parents holds Turkish citizenship.

Citizenship by place of birth

Citizenship by place of birth applies to those children who were born in Turkey and do not have citizenship from either of their parents. Such children have the legal right to apply for Turkish citizenship.

Adoption and citizenship

There are also options for obtaining citizenship through the adoption process. If a Turkish citizen decides to adopt a minor child from another country, the child automatically receives Turkish citizenship after the process is confirmed.

Turquoise card

One of the forms of legal status in Turkey is the turquoise card. The turquoise card (in English - turquoise card, in Turkish - turkuaz kart) grants its holder the right to:

• permanent residence;
• possibility of work;
• business management;
• receiving social benefits.

However, it is worth noting that holders of the turquoise card do not have the right to participate in elections and are exempt from military service.

Exceptional categories of foreigners

In Turkey, there are several unique categories of foreigners who have the opportunity to obtain citizenship based on special conditions offered by the country's ministries or approved by the government. These categories include:

• Individuals actively involved in the development of production infrastructureincluding construction, import of goods, or investment projects in the Turkish economy.
• Foreigners who have a significant influence on various fieldssuch as science, culture, economy, technology, and social initiatives. In such cases, the relevant ministries send official invitations for citizenship applications.
• Refugees located in Turkeyhave the right to apply for citizenship.
• Foreigners in need of obtaining citizenship under rare and exceptional circumstancesthat are not accounted for in the existing legislation.

Advantages of living in Turkey

Why should one consider living in Turkey? Since 2017, the number of residence permits issued has significantly increased — from about 600,000 in 2017 to over one million foreign citizens residing in the country by 2024.

Emigrants highlight several key advantages of living in this country:

• Nature and climate.Turkey is washed by three seas: the Mediterranean, the Aegean, and the Sea of Marmara. The Mediterranean climate predominates here, while the Black Sea coast experiences a moderate maritime atmosphere. Summer temperatures are not excessively high, and winters usually pass without snow. If you prefer continental weather, you can enjoy true winter cold and warm summers in cities away from the coast. Thus, the mountainous regions offer excellent opportunities for winter sports.
• Care for the residents.In this country, all systems are organized to ensure maximum comfort for residents. This applies to both management companies and other city services that facilitate interaction with the population. Beaches in coastal areas are often free and well-equipped, featuring showers, restrooms, and sports facilities. Emigrants note the quality of public transport and the high level of services provided.
• Comfortable housing.Most new residential complexes being built in the country are usually equipped with various internal infrastructure: there are swimming pools, playgrounds, green areas, gyms, and spacious parking lots.
• Food products.In Turkey, fruits and vegetables are available year-round at very reasonable prices. In season, you can easily enjoy fresh fruits picked straight from the trees that can be found on the streets.
• People.In Turkey, kindness and hospitality are commonplace. The locals are friendly and polite towards tourists, and despite the predominance of Islamic culture, they treat representatives of other faiths with respect and patience.
• The wealth of historical and cultural heritage.Turkey is one of the oldest inhabited territories. Over the centuries, Ottoman, European, Middle Eastern, and Asian traditions have intersected here, leading to the formation of a unique cultural wealth, represented by numerous historical monuments.

Conclusion

Thus, life in Turkey attracts not only with its luxurious climate and natural beauty but also with a multitude of amenities for comfortable living, while fostering a favorable atmosphere for immigrants. This country, with its deep historical roots, rich nature, and friendly inhabitants, offers a wonderful opportunity for living and working.

Turkey as a Center for Medical Tourism

Turkey currently holds a strong position among the main destinations for medical tourism on a global level. This is due to the presence of numerous both public and private medical institutions that boast the latest technologies and highly qualified specialists. For example, the cost of dental services here is significantly lower than in the capital of Russia, making Turkey a popular alternative for those seeking quality medical care at reasonable prices.

It is also worth noting that the Turkish government actively regulates the pricing of pharmaceutical products by setting maximum limits. As a result, patients can expect significantly lower prices for medications compared to Russia.

Education in Turkey

In the educational sector, Turkey offers high-quality education for both local citizens and international students. The country has both public and private institutions where instruction is provided in various languages.

Graduates of Turkish schools acquire all the necessary knowledge and skills for successful studies at European universities. The higher education degree obtained in Turkey meets European standards, which facilitates the transfer of students to educational institutions in other European countries without the need to take additional exams.

Moreover, the tuition fees here are significantly lower than at most European universities, and the government provides grants to both local and international students.

Obtaining a Residence Permit

Foreign citizens can obtain a residence permit in Turkey quite easily: they just need to purchase or rent property. The process of obtaining a residence permit (ikamet) allows them to live in Turkey with rights similar to those of the country's citizens.

The minimum property value for this procedure is200 thousand dollarsAnd it's important to understand that only one object is taken into account.

Advantages of Turkish Citizenship

The advantages of Turkish citizenship are diverse:

• The possibility of retaining citizenship of one's home country, as Turkey allows.dual citizenship.
• The possibility to apply for citizenship for several family members at the same time.
• Visa-free access to116 countriesincluding Singapore, Japan, and Hong Kong.
• The option to obtain an E-2 visa for employment in the USA for up to five years with the possibility of extension (this option is not available for citizens of Russia and Belarus).
• Obtaining a tourist visa for a period of up to ten years.

Business in Turkey

Turkey attracts businessmen with attractive conditions:

• Low tax rates.
• Government subsidies.
• Special zones for trade and manufacturing activities.

Business support infrastructures are developing. The customs union between Turkey and the European Union opens up additional opportunities for exporters and importers, while the country's advantageous geographical location contributes to effective international logistics.

Documents for Obtaining Citizenship

At the stage of obtaining Turkish citizenship, it is important to prepare the necessary package of documents along with the application, which should be completed using VAT Form 6. The list of required documents includes:

• A foreign passport with a remaining validity of more than six months.
• Six photographs measuring 3 by 4 cm.
• Birth Certificate.
• Documents confirming marital status (for example, marriage certificate, divorce certificate, or proof of single status).

In the case of submitting an application on behalf of another person, a power of attorney confirming the authority will be required.

Obtaining a certificate of no criminal record

Obtaining a certificate of no criminal record in the country where the applicant holds citizenship is an important step in the citizenship application process. If family members are also mentioned in the application, spouses will need to gather a similar set of documents.

In the case of children, it is necessary to include the consent of the other parent, as well as marriage or divorce certificates. All collected documents will need to be apostilled in the country of origin, then translated into Turkish and notarized in Turkey.

Documents for naturalization and investment citizenship

When submitting documents for obtaining citizenship through naturalization, it is necessary to provide a residence permit in Turkey (ikamet), which will also be included in the set of documents.

If we are talking about citizenship obtained through investment, it will be necessary to provide documents confirming the amount of the investment, as well as a residence permit and a special certificate of the investment made, issued by the relevant ministry. For example, if the investment is in real estate, such a document must confirm compliance, issued by the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization.

Issuance of a certificate

To obtain this certificate, you need to have a title deed (tapu) and a compliance document issued by the agency responsible for financial control.

Ekaterina Maslova, a sales manager in Thailand and Europe, emphasizes that when submitting an application, it is necessary to have the originals of all collected documents.

After the immigration inspector checks all the documents, the applicant must pay a state fee of 100 Turkish lira at the tax office and present the receipt to the inspector.

The verification process and statuses

Once all the documents are accepted, the applicant receives a unique number that allows them to track the status of their application with the Department of Population and Citizenship Affairs.

The verification process usually takes between three to six months, after which an interview is scheduled.

Forms to fill out and complete lists of necessary documents for various cases of obtaining citizenship can be downloaded from the official website of the Turkish Migration Management.

Reasons for denial of citizenship

Refusal of citizenship can occur in a number of cases. The main reasons for such a situation are often related to the fact that the issued tourist visa does not confirm the applicant's intention to stay and reside in the country.

The main requirement for obtaining citizenship is having a serious intention to live in Turkey. A tourist visa, in this context, cannot be considered as proof of such intentions.

Family circumstances

Another common reason for denial of citizenship based on family circumstances can be a divorce during the application review process or if one of the spouses has already filed for divorce.

The legislation clearly states that at the time of submitting the application, one must have been married for at least three years, and the marriage cannot be fictitious.

However, nowhere does it say that the candidate must remain married during the review of their application. Leonid emphasizes the need for a serious approach to preparing all documents and grounds for the expressed intention to avoid a denial of citizenship.

Challenging a citizenship denial

In the event of a denial of citizenship based on family circumstances, there is an opportunity to challenge such a decision. However, as a rule, such denials may be issued if security services determine that the spouses do not live together. In this situation, the applicant has the option to file an appeal if they can provide evidence of cohabitation and confirm the legality of the marriage.

Citizenship is often denied to individuals with a criminal record, but it is important to note thatNot every type of conviction is a reason for denial.Consultation with lawyers who specialize in citizenship issues can increase the chances of successfully challenging such a decision if it is related to a criminal record.

Deadlines for appealing a denial

If citizenship has been denied, the applicant has a period of 60 days to appeal this decision and submit additional documents or explanations justifying the denial.

Regarding dual citizenship, it is worth noting that Turkish legislation allows for more than one citizenship. This means that the right to foreign citizenship will not affect the process of obtaining Turkish citizenship.

Nevertheless, due to the principle of reciprocity in international law, if there is a rule of single citizenship in the country from which the application originates, Turkey may refuse to grant its citizenship.

Countries with a ban on dual citizenship

Among the countries where dual citizenship is not allowed, we can highlight states such as:

• Austria
• Georgia
• Montenegro
• Tanzania
• Azerbaijan
• India
• Netherlands
• Thailand
• Bahrain
• Indonesia
• Nepal
• Ukraine
• China
• Poland
• United Arab Emirates
• Japan
• Jiluti
• Kazakhstan
• Saudi Arabia
• Venezuela
• Andorra
• Estonia
• Malaysia
• Slovakia

Call to the army for new citizens

It is also necessary to consider the issue of military conscription for men who have obtained Turkish citizenship upon reaching adulthood. In Turkey, mandatory military service applies to all men who are 21 years old or older.

According to law 6519, adopted on January 22, 2014, foreigners who moved to Turkey and obtained citizenship after turning 22 are exempt from military service. The conscription primarily concerns men who have reached the age of 21, unless there are special circumstances that require an extension of the conscription age.

If a foreign citizen entered Turkey at the age of less than 21 and later became a citizen, for example, at 30 years old, he will still have to serve in the military, as he arrived in the country before reaching 22 years of age.

Turkish legislation provides for the possibility of exemption from mandatory military service for a certain fee. The amount required for this is reviewed every year, and in 2024 it is set at 217,870 lira, which is equivalent to over 6,500 dollars.

This option is provided for in the legislative initiatives regarding military service in Turkey, and its implementation requires the submission of a corresponding application to the local military commissariat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that obtaining Turkish citizenship opens up numerous opportunities and prospects for you. As we have analyzed, there are several ways to become a citizen of this amazing country. Whether through naturalization, investment, marriage, or other unique circumstances, the options are diverse and cater to a wide range of needs and situations.

Currently, there is a noticeable increase in interest from investors and entrepreneurs. In recent years, there has been a shift from traditional methods of obtaining citizenship, such as marriage or naturalization, to more economically efficient options related to investments. This indicates that Turkey is becoming an attractive and accessible country for foreign citizens seeking new opportunities.

Important considerations

Nevertheless, before making a final decision, it is important to carefully analyze all the conditions and requirements. Special attention should be paid to the documents needed for the application and the possible reasons for rejection. It is important to remember that by becoming a citizen of Turkey, you will gain not only status but also the opportunity to participate in the economic and social life of the country.

Conclusions

Thus, obtaining Turkish citizenship can be not only a desire but also a wise investment decision. I sincerely hope that this article will help you choose the most suitable path for obtaining citizenship and serve as a support during this important stage of your life.

Take the opportunity and discover all the riches and benefits that life in Turkey has to offer, a country that awaits you with open arms.