Turkish Citizenship by Property Investment is a program that allows foreign investors to obtain Turkish citizenship by purchasing real estate in Turkey. This is one of the most popular routes to acquire Turkish citizenship. Here’s a detailed overview of the process:
Key Requirements:
- Minimum Investment: To qualify, you must purchase real estate in Turkey worth at least $400,000.
- Holding Period: The property must be kept for at least three years. You cannot sell the property during this period.
- Single or Multiple Properties: You can buy a single property or multiple properties as long as the total value reaches $400,000.
- Property Type: The property can be residential, commercial, or land.
- Valuation Report: A certified property valuation report is required to ensure that the property value meets the investment threshold.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Choose and Purchase Real Estate
- Select a property that meets the investment criteria. The total value must be at least $400,000, and payments should be made through a Turkish bank.
- Get a Property Valuation Report
- Obtain an official appraisal report from a licensed agency in Turkey to verify the property’s value. This report will be submitted as part of your citizenship application.
- Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility
- After purchasing the property, apply to the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization to receive a Certificate of Eligibility. This certificate confirms that your real estate investment qualifies you for the Citizenship by Investment program.
- Obtain a Residence Permit
- You must first apply for a short-term residence permit. This is a necessary step before applying for citizenship.
- Submit Citizenship Application
- Once the property purchase and residence permit are in place, you can apply for Turkish citizenship through the Provincial Directorate of Census and Citizenship. The application can include your spouse and children under 18 years old.
- Application Processing
- The Turkish government will review your application, conduct background checks, and verify that all requirements are met. This process usually takes 3-6 months.
- Receive Turkish Citizenship
- Once approved, you will be granted Turkish citizenship. Your spouse and children under 18 are also eligible for citizenship under your application.
- Apply for Turkish Passports
- After obtaining citizenship, you can apply for Turkish passports for yourself and your family at a local passport office.
Benefits:
- Visa-Free Travel: Turkish citizenship allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 110 countries.
- Dual Citizenship: Turkey allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your original nationality while becoming a Turkish citizen.
- Family Inclusion: Your spouse and children under 18 can also obtain Turkish citizenship through your investment.
- Permanent Residence: You can live, work, and study in Turkey without restrictions.
- Access to Healthcare and Education: As a Turkish citizen, you gain access to Turkey’s healthcare system and education benefits.
By investing in Turkish real estate, you not only secure a valuable asset but also gain the opportunity to become a Turkish citizen, along with the many benefits that come with it.
