Legislation
The primary legal documents that regulate the matters related to citizenship are the Constitution and the Citizenship Act. The latter can be updated more frequently than the former.
Eligibility Criteria
Let's have a look at five methods of obtaining citizenship that are available to foreigners.
By Birth
It's impossible to become a citizen of this country by being born here. It's mandatory that at least one of your parents had Turkish citizenship at the moment when you were born.
By Descent
This method is similar to the previous one. However, family relations can be tricky. For instance, the applicant's mother and father might not have been married officially before giving birth to the kid. Or, the applicant might have been raised by a single mother and claims that his father was a Turkish citizen. In such cases, a thorough investigation needs to be completed – and this is classified as obtaining citizenship by descent.
By Marriage
If you tie the knot with a Turkish citizen, be ready to prove that you are genuinely attached to each other, live together as a family for at least three years, and don't have other partners.
By Naturalization
To qualify for this option, it's mandatory to spend in the country at least five years legally. For instance, you can work here as a qualified expat.
By Investment
This one is the most popular method, available to nearly everyone who fails to tick any of the previous boxes. That's why we'll concentrate on it in our article.
Paperwork
To apply for citizenship, it's necessary to prepare the following papers:
- Passport
- 4 passport-style photos
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Tax number
- Document that proves that you have always been law-obedient
- Documents that confirm that you meet any of the above-listed eligibility criteria
The papers need to be translated and notarized.
Application Steps
Foreign investors should stick to the following scheme:
- Decide on the investment route
- Get a local tax ID
- Apply for a certificate of eligibility
- Complete the investment
- Apply for a residence permit
As a resident, you'll be allowed to apply for citizenship.
Duration of the Process
Normally, the authorities take no longer than half a year to review an investor application. You won't be required to stay in the country during this period.
Expenses
The expenses related to obtaining citizenship through investment include the following:
- Entry visa if you need it – $100
- Translation of documents – $400
- Registration fee – $15
- Getting a tax number – $18
- Insuring your health – $150
- Opening a local bank account – $1,000
- Getting a residence permit fee – $108
- Getting a local passport – $165
- Government processing fee – $574
If your dearest and nearest apply together with you, multiply these amounts by the number of applicants.
Benefits of Dual Citizenship
To get a Turkish passport as an investor, you won't have to pass a language test or stay in the country for any specific period.
With a Turkish passport, you'll be able to stay, study, and work anywhere in the country without obtaining any additional permissions. You'll appreciate the high local healthcare and educational standards. You won't face any limitations when concluding deals with properties. After you retire, you'll be eligible for a local pension.
You'll be able to travel to dozens of countries without a visa. It will be easy for you to relocate to the USA.
Limitations and Problems
There are two potential limitations to be aware of:
- All men aged 18 to 41 need to complete military service in Turkey
- You can't include your parents in the application app even if they depend on you
Apart from that, there are hardly any disadvantages.
Potential Loss of Another Country's Citizenship
Your homeland might or might not recognize your dual citizenship. However, the laws can change over time.
One of the most recent examples is Germany. From 2024, its inhabitants are allowed to have dual citizenship in Turkey.
Turkey Dual Citizenship by Investment
There are four options for foreigners. No matter which of them you prefer, you'll be allowed to resell your investment in three years. The laws allow you to make passive income on your investment. If your dearest and nearest apply together with you, the required amount won't increase proportionally to the number of applicants.
Purchasing Real Estate
A foreigner can invest $400,000 in one or several properties, regardless of their type – residential, commercial, or a plot of land. It's the easiest investment route.
Depositing Funds in a Local Bank
The minimum required amount is $500,000.
Investing in Capital
You can invest $500,000 in local government bonds, or in a fund.
Creating Jobs
If you launch a business in Turkey, make sure to hire at least 50 locals.
Detailed Requirements
To apply for Turkish citizenship, it's enough to be at least 18 years old and prove that you're a well-intentioned individual with a legal source of income.
You can invest in the country and submit your application remotely. However, you and your spouse will be required to arrive in Turkey to submit fingerprints and photos for your new passports. Your kids won't have to travel with you.
Renouncing Turkish Citizenship and Regaining It
If you decide to renounce your Turkish passport, you'll be allowed to do so if you:
- Have a passport of another state
- Have completed your military service in Turkey or don't have to do it
If you want to regain your Turkish passport in the future, you'll have the right to do so if you don't pose a threat to national security.
Final Thoughts
Foreigners can apply for a Turkish passport without renouncing their homeland's one. The easiest way to do it is to invest in property. You won't be required to pass a language test or stay in the country for any specific period.