Turkey presents a range of opportunities for foreigners looking to acquire citizenship, whether or not for business, lifestyle, or strategic journey benefits. With its unique position between Europe and Asia, vibrant culture, and rising economy, Turkish citizenship is an attractive option. In case you’re a international national interested in becoming a Turkish citizen, the application process is straightforward, particularly should you meet specific criteria. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the right way to apply for Turkish citizenship as a foreigner.
Pathways to Turkish Citizenship
There are several legal routes to buying Turkish citizenship, each with its own set of requirements. The commonest strategies include:
Citizenship by Investment
Citizenship by Marriage
Citizenship by Birth or Descent
Citizenship by Long-Term Residency
Exceptional Citizenship (granted by the President)
Let’s focus on the most popular route for many foreigners: citizenship by investment, and then briefly touch on different paths.
Citizenship by Investment
One of many fastest and most popular ways to obtain Turkish citizenship is through investment. This program requires a financial contribution to the Turkish financial system, and it comes with several investment options:
Buy real estate worth not less than $400,000, with a commitment to not sell it for at least three years.
Deposit at least $500,000 in a Turkish bank and keep the funds for at least three years.
Invest $500,000 in government bonds or Turkish firms, also with a minimum three-12 months commitment.
Create jobs for a minimum of 50 Turkish citizens.
Once you make the required investment and full all paperwork, you may apply for citizenship, normally without the need for Turkish language proficiency or residence previous to the application.
Steps to Apply for Turkish Citizenship
Regardless of the tactic, the application process generally includes the following steps:
Collect Required Documents
You’ll want:
Legitimate passport
Birth certificate
Proof of legal entry and residence (if applicable)
Marital standing certificate
Proof of address in Turkey
Biometric photos
Police clearance from your home country
Documents related to your investment (if applicable)
Translate and Notarize Documents
All documents not originally in Turkish must be translated and notarized. This step is critical and must be done through licensed translators.
Submit Application to the Directorate General of Civil Registration and Citizenship Affairs
Applications must be filed at a local office or Turkish consulate abroad. If you happen to’re making use of through investment, you’ll must first receive a Certificate of Eligibility from the related authority (such because the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization for property investors).
Background Checks and Evaluate
The government conducts a background check to ensure you don’t pose a national security risk. This process can take several months.
Approval and Citizenship Certificate
Once approved, you’ll be issued a Turkish citizenship certificate. You can then apply for a Turkish passport and enjoy the benefits of dual citizenship, if allowed by your country.
Different Routes to Citizenship
Marriage to a Turkish Citizen: After three years of marriage and cohabitation, you can apply for citizenship, provided the relationship is real and stable.
Long-Term Residence: Living in Turkey legally for five consecutive years may make you eligible, especially should you can show integration, stable income, and good conduct.
Distinctive Citizenship: Granted to individuals with distinctive contributions in areas like sports, arts, or science, or those deemed beneficial to national interest.
Final Notes
Turkey does not require applicants to resign their previous citizenship, making it a dual citizenship-friendly country. The process, while bureaucratic, is quite accessible for many who meet the eligibility requirements. Whether you are looking to invest, live, or start a new life in a culturally rich and strategically located country, Turkish citizenship offers a wonderful opportunity.
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