Acquiring Turkish Citizenship Through Investment

Obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment is possible by meeting certain legal requirements. However, it is important to note that every application is subject to the discretion of the authorities. Fulfilling the conditions does not guarantee that citizenship will automatically be granted.

Application Requirements

• Filing an Application: A formal application must be submitted to the relevant authorities.

• Residence Permit: The applicant must obtain a short-term residence permit in Turkey.

• Investment: A qualifying investment must be made, such as purchasing real estate, making a fixed capital investment, or creating employment opportunities.

Applicants who meet these requirements may acquire Turkish citizenship upon the approval of the President.

Investment Options

• Fixed Capital Investment: A minimum of USD 500,000.

• Real Estate Purchase or Preliminary Sale Agreement: Purchasing real estate worth at least USD 400,000 in Turkey, with a restriction placed on the property to prevent its sale for three years.

• Job Creation: Employing at least 50 people.

• Bank Deposit: Depositing USD 500,000 (or its equivalent in foreign currency) into a Turkish bank account and maintaining it for three years.

• Government Bonds: Purchasing government debt securities worth at least USD 500,000 and holding them for three years.

• Venture Capital or Real Estate Investment Fund: Investing a minimum of USD 500,000 into such a fund and keeping the investment for three years.

• Private Pension System: Contributing at least USD 500,000 (or its equivalent in foreign currency) into the private pension system, provided that the funds are placed in schemes approved by the Insurance and Private Pension Regulation and Supervision Authority and maintained for three years.

Challenging a Rejection of Citizenship by Investment

In some cases, the authorities may decide to reject an application. This can happen due to missing or incorrect documents, failure to meet the legal criteria, or simply as a result of the administration’s discretionary power.

If an applicant believes that the rejection decision is unlawful, they have the right to file a lawsuit requesting the annulment of the decision. Such a case must be brought before the administrative courts within 60 days from the notification of the decision. Before initiating legal proceedings, it is also possible to file an administrative appeal requesting the withdrawal of the rejection decision.

If you are considering applying for Turkish citizenship through investment, or if your application has been rejected, seeking professional legal advice may be essential.

Olgun Law – Attorney Ümit Olgun
Administrative, Tax and Citizenship Law Department
Attorney Rabia Kıraç & Trainee Lawyer Tolga Tomur

*Olgun Hukuk is a 30-person firm specializing in citizenship applications and litigation in Türkiye.

*For more information, please contact us via email.

E-MAİL: olgunhukukburosu@gmail.com