Turkey

What makes Turkey stand out is the breadth of benefits it offers compared to other citizenship by investment countries. First and foremost, the process is fast and does not require the applicant to reside in Turkey before or after citizenship is granted. Applicants can also hold dual citizenship, making it possible to maintain ties with their home country while enjoying the perks of a Turkish passport.

Turkish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 100 countries, including Japan, Singapore, and much of South America and Africa. Importantly, Turkey also has an E-2 Treaty Visa agreement with the United States, giving Turkish citizens a direct route to establish businesses or live in the U.S. 

On a domestic level, Turkish citizenship provides full access to the country’s public healthcare and education systems, as well as pension schemes. The cost of living is comparatively lower than in many EU countries, yet the standard of living in cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara is modern, cosmopolitan, and family-friendly.

Financially, the program offers clear advantages. Turkey does not tax worldwide income, which makes it attractive for international investors with global business interests. There is also no inheritance tax, and many investors are able to generate returns through real estate investments, given the steady demand for property in Turkey’s key cities and coastal areas. Furthermore, Turkey’s Customs Union with the EU ensures businesses and investors enjoy direct access to European markets, strengthening its appeal as a base for international trade.

While many investors consider Golden Visa Europe programs such as those in Portugal, Cyprus, or Greece, Turkey offers a unique value proposition: direct citizenship rather than just residency. This distinction saves years of waiting and provides faster access to visa-free travel, international business opportunities, and EU markets. Additionally, the relatively low investment threshold makes it one of the most cost-effective passport by investment programs worldwide.

Launched in 2017, the Turkey Citizenship by Investment program quickly established itself as one of the most affordable and efficient pathways to a second passport. Unlike many EU residency by investment programs, Turkey offers direct citizenship instead of a long waiting period for residency. With approvals typically completed in three to six months, this program allows investors and their families to gain the advantages of global mobility, access to EU markets, and a high standard of living without the need for a prolonged stay in the country.

Applicants can choose from a variety of qualifying investments, ranging from real estate purchases to bank deposits and government bonds. The most popular option remains real estate, which allows investors to combine lifestyle and financial growth while securing Turkish citizenship.

The Turkish government has designed the program to be straightforward and accessible. Applicants must simply demonstrate good character and prove the legal source of their funds. The main applicant can include their spouse and children under the age of 18, as well as dependent children with disabilities regardless of age, under one application.

One of the major strengths of the Turkish Citizenship by Investment program is its efficiency. The process usually takes between three and six months, and applicants are not required to travel to Turkey at any stage. With the support of legal and advisory experts, investors can handle everything remotely through a power of attorney.

The journey begins with selecting the investment option - most often a real estate purchase - followed by obtaining a tax ID, opening a bank account, and submitting the necessary applications for residence permits and ultimately citizenship. Once citizenship is granted, applicants can apply for their Turkish passports, either in Turkey or at local embassies abroad.

Required Documents

To apply for the Turkey Citizenship by Investment program, applicants and their dependents will need to provide the following:

• Valid passport copies for all family members included in the application
• Birth certificates or official family registry documents
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Family registration certificate proving parent–child relationships
• Certificate of residence or proof of current address
• Criminal record certificate (optional but can help expedite approval)
• Biometric photographs (six per family member)
• Sworn translations of all documents into Turkish
• Powers of Attorney for the applicant and spouse (to authorize representation in Turkey)
  
  

Note: Certain documents must be apostilled or legalized by the Turkish Consulate to be accepted

Turkey is one of the most strategically positioned nations in the world, bridging Europe and Asia. Its rich cultural heritage, vibrant modern cities, and stunning natural beauty make it a destination where history meets opportunity. From the bustling metropolis of Istanbul to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, Turkey offers a lifestyle that combines tradition with cosmopolitan living. Its dynamic economy, growing global influence, and strong ties with both the European Union and international markets make it an attractive place not only to live but also to invest.