CITIZENSHIP​

Turkey offers a Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) which was launched in 2017. This programme allows foreign investors and their families to obtain Turkish citizenship by making a qualifying investment in the country. The programme is particularly attractive due to Turkey’s strategic geographical location, vibrant economy and cultural richness.

Key Features of Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Programme:

Investment Options:

• Real Estate Investment: Purchase property in Turkey with a minimum value of $400,000. The property must be retained for at least three years.
• Capital Investment: Invest at least $500,000 in fixed capital contributions, as attested by the Ministry of Industry and Technology.
• Bank Deposit: Deposit a minimum of $500,000 in a Turkish bank, maintained for at least three years.
• Government Bonds: Purchase government bonds worth at least $500,000, holding the investment for a minimum of three years.
• Venture Capital or Investment Fund: Invest at least $500,000 in a Turkish real estate investment trust or venture capital investment fund for a minimum of three years.
• Employment Creation: Create jobs for at least 50 Turkish citizens, as confirmed by the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Services.

Residency Requirement:

• There is no mandatory residency requirement, allowing flexibility for applicants who prefer not to relocate.

Application Process:

• Initial Consultation: Engage with a legal advisor or authorised agent to guide the process.
• Document Preparation: Prepare and gather necessary documents, including proof of investment, valid passport, clean criminal record certificate, birth certificate and proof of address.
• Investment: Make the qualifying investment in line with the chosen option.
• Application Submission: Submit the completed application to the provincial directorate of the Immigration Administration in Turkey.
• Approval Process: Turkey conducts a thorough review of the application, confirming compliance with investment requirements.
• Citizenship Certificate: Upon approval, applicants receive a Certificate of Naturalisation, after which they can apply for a Turkish passport.

Processing Time:

• The processing time is typically around three to six months from submission to approval.

Benefits:

• Visa-Free Travel: Turkish passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries, including: Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Singapore. Efforts are ongoing to expand the list of visa-free countries to include the Schengen Area.
• Dual Citizenship: The programme allows dual citizenship, so applicants do not need to renounce their existing nationality.
• Strategic Location: Turkey’s unique position straddling Europe and Asia offers significant business and travel advantages.
• Business Opportunities: Access to a vibrant economy with a strong tourism sector, manufacturing industry and strategic trade routes.
• Quality of Life: High standard of living with excellent healthcare and education systems, a rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes.
• Family Inclusion: Applicants can include their spouse, dependent children under 18, and potentially other dependents, subject to specific conditions.