Turkish Citizenship by Investment: Current Conditions and Benefits in 2026

Turkish citizenship by investment remains a popular option for foreigners seeking citizenship through investment in real estate, business, or financial assets. Through 2026, the program's basic investment thresholds remain at USD 400,000 for real estate and USD 500,000 for most other investment options. It's important to understand that purchasing real estate or making a deposit does not automatically grant a Turkish passport. The investment must meet legal requirements, and the applicant must complete the required due diligence and citizenship application process.

What investments qualify for Turkish citizenship? The most common option is real estate acquisition. A foreigner can apply for citizenship by purchasing real estate worth at least USD 400,000 and committing not to sell it for at least three years. This doesn't limit the scope of the program to residential properties. The specific property and the structure of the agreement must comply with Turkish law. Therefore, before purchasing, it's important to check both the property itself and its suitability for the citizenship program.

A foreigner may also meet the investment criteria if:

- Makes a fixed capital investment of at least USD 500,000;

- Places a deposit of at least USD 500,000 in a Turkish bank with a commitment not to withdraw it for at least three years;

- Purchases government bonds of at least USD 500,000 and holds them for at least three years;

- Purchases shares of real estate or venture capital funds of at least USD 500,000 and holds them for at least three years;

- Contributes at least USD 500,000 to eligible funds within a private pension system with a requirement to remain in the system for at least three years;

- Creates at least 50 jobs in Turkey.

Thus, the program allows investors to choose not only real estate but also other investment options depending on their financial goals and plans.

The main advantage of real estate is that the investor doesn't simply fulfill the investment requirement for citizenship; rather, they obtain ownership of the asset. This could be an apartment, house, commercial property, or other real estate that meets the program's established requirements. After the required holding period, the investor can dispose of the property in accordance with the law. This makes the program attractive to many foreigners: instead of a non-refundable contribution, funds are invested in an asset that has the potential to generate income or retain its investment value.

So, what are the benefits of Turkish citizenship? One of the main advantages is the opportunity to obtain full citizenship, not just a temporary residence permit. Citizenship allows you to live and work in Turkey without having to renew your residence permit, and enjoy the rights of citizenship under Turkish law.

Another advantage is the ability to include family members in the application process, provided they meet the established requirements. This makes the program attractive not only to the investor but also to families planning to obtain long-term status in Turkey. Furthermore, Turkish citizenship may be of interest to entrepreneurs and investors planning to conduct business in the country, use Turkey as a regional hub, or expand their international operations.

One of the most pressing issues for potential investors is the requirement for permanent residency in the country. The investment program and citizenship procedure do not limit themselves to a requirement of permanent residence in Turkey for a certain number of years. This distinguishes the program from many traditional naturalization procedures, where long-term actual residence is a key criterion. At the same time, obtaining citizenship by investment does not exempt the applicant from completing all required procedures, checks, and providing documents confirming compliance with the program requirements.

Can I sell real estate after receiving citizenship? Yes, but it is important to consider the established holding period for the investment. Real estate acquired through the citizenship program is prohibited from sale for at least three years.

Therefore, the investor must plan not only the purchase itself but also the subsequent management of the asset. Selling the property before the expiration of the established period may affect eligibility for the program.

Is it sufficient to simply buy real estate for $400,000? No. This is one of the most common mistakes. Property price is only one criterion. It's important to check the legal status of the property, the correct execution of the transaction, the property's compliance with the program requirements, the seller and buyer's documents, the source of funds, and the investment confirmation procedure.

It's also important to properly document the property.

Investments at the acquisition stage. An error in the agreement structure or documents can create problems when applying for citizenship. Therefore, before purchasing real estate for the citizenship program, it is advisable to conduct a legal review of the property and the investment structure itself.

In 2026, Turkey's investment program remains a relevant tool for foreign investors, but before beginning the process, it is important to check the current requirements and documents at the time of submission.

This is especially important because regulations, document requirements, and administrative procedures are subject to change. Therefore, relying solely on information from advertising materials or old publications is risky.

It is important for the investor to determine in advance:

- which investment method is most suitable;

- the required investment amount;

- what documents are required to confirm the investment;

- does the selected asset meet the program requirements;

- how to properly formalize the transaction;

- which family members can be included in the application;

- what restrictions will apply to the investment after it has been completed.

Thus, Turkish citizenship by investment can be an attractive option for entrepreneurs, investors, and families seeking to obtain a new citizenship while simultaneously investing in Turkish assets or the Turkish economy.

The Antwort Law team helps investors evaluate the possibility of obtaining Turkish citizenship by investment, select a suitable investment option, review documents, and assist with all stages of the process.

If you are considering purchasing real estate or another investment option to obtain Turkish citizenship, contact Antwort Law for a consultation. We will help you assess your situation, determine the optimal path, and minimize legal risks when applying for citizenship.

Lidia Ivanova

International lawyer
Antwort Law