Turkey is a country that has been attracting people from all over the world for many years. Its rich history, culture, and natural beauty make it a desirable place to live. In recent years, Turkey has also become a popular destination for those seeking to obtain Turkish citizenship. There are several ways to become a Turkish citizen, including by marriage, by naturalization after living in Turkey for a certain amount of time, or by investment. This blog post will provide you with an overview of the requirements for each method and give you some essential information to get you started.

Different Ways of Getting Turkish Citizenship

Turkey offers several ways to obtain citizenship, each with its own specific requirements and processes. Whether you're seeking citizenship through marriage, birth, naturalization, or investment, understanding the available options can help you navigate the path to becoming a Turkish citizen.

Getting Turkish Citizenship by Birth

Turkish citizenship by birth is primarily granted to individuals born within Turkey to Turkish parents. However, there are specific circumstances where children born to foreign parents in Turkey may also be eligible for citizenship.

If both parents are Turkish citizens, their child automatically acquires Turkish citizenship at birth. Even if one parent is a Turkish citizen and the other is a foreigner, the child may still be eligible for citizenship under certain conditions, such as if the child is born in Turkey and the foreign parent has a residence permit.

It's important to note that the specific rules and regulations regarding citizenship by birth can be complex. If you have questions or concerns, it's advisable to consult with a Turkish immigration lawyer for expert guidance. 

Getting Turkish Citizenship by Marriage

Marriage to a Turkish citizen can be a pathway to obtaining Turkish citizenship. However, there are specific requirements and conditions that must be met.

To be eligible for citizenship by marriage, you generally need to have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years. Additionally, you must have lived together in Turkey as a family during this period.

The Turkish authorities will also conduct checks to ensure that you do not pose a threat to the country and that your marriage is genuine. It's important to note that polygamy is not allowed in Turkey, so having multiple partners may disqualify you from citizenship.

The documentation required for citizenship by marriage typically includes:

  • Standard form VAT-6
  • Translated and notarized passport
  • Birth certificate
  • Identity registry copy
  • Marital status certificate
  • Residence permit in Turkey

If the authorities determine that your marriage is not genuine or that you have other intentions, your application for citizenship may be rejected.

It's highly recommended to consult with Turkish immigration lawyers for expert guidance on the specific requirements and processes involved in obtaining citizenship by marriage.

As a Turkish citizen, you will benefit from the power of the Turkish passport, which allows visa-free travel to many countries worldwide. Additionally, children born to at least one Turkish citizen automatically acquire Turkish citizenship.

Getting Turkish Citizenship by Property Purchase

Purchasing a property in Turkey can be a pathway to obtaining citizenship, and actually it is a very popular way in recent years! The Turkish government offers a citizenship program for foreign investors who purchase real estate valued at USD 400,000 or more.

The process for obtaining citizenship through property purchase involves several steps:

  • Property Purchase: Find and purchase a property in Turkey that meets the minimum value requirement.
  • Documentation: Gather the necessary documents, such as proof of property ownership, passport, and bank statements.
  • Application: Submit your citizenship application to the relevant Turkish authorities.
  • Approval: Await the decision on your citizenship application.

It's important to note that the specific requirements and procedures may change, so it's advisable to consult with Turkish immigration lawyers for the most up-to-date information.

By obtaining Turkish citizenship through property purchase, you can enjoy the benefits of living in Turkey, including a strong economy, beautiful landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage.

In addition to citizenship by ownership, foreign citizens who have made significant investments in Turkey may also be eligible for citizenship. Those who own and hold at least 3 years of venture capital investment fund participation shares or real estate investment fund participation worth a minimum of USD 500,000 can be considered for citizenship.

Getting Turkish Citizenship by Descent

If you have Turkish ancestry, you may be eligible for Turkish citizenship by descent. This pathway allows individuals with Turkish roots to claim citizenship based on their family lineage.

To apply for citizenship by descent, you will need to provide evidence of your family relationship to Turkish citizens. This typically involves presenting birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and other documents that demonstrate your lineage.

The process of obtaining citizenship by descent generally involves the following steps:

  • Document Verification: The Turkish authorities will verify the authenticity of the documents you provide.
  • Information Request: You may be asked to provide additional information related to your family history.
  • Evidence Presentation: You must present clear evidence to prove your Turkish ancestry.
  • Application: Submit your citizenship application to the relevant authorities.

There are specific conditions for eligibility for citizenship by descent:

You must prove that you were born in Turkey or outside the country to a Turkish parent.
If you were born to a foreign mother and a Turkish father, you may be eligible for citizenship.
It's important to note that citizenship by descent is not available to children born in Turkey to foreign parents.

For expert guidance on the specific requirements and procedures for citizenship by descent or investment, it's recommended to consult with Turkish immigration lawyers.

Other Conditions for Getting Turkish Citizenship

In addition to the specific requirements outlined for each citizenship pathway, there are some general conditions that apply to all applicants:

  • Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for Turkish citizenship.
  • Residence: You must have lived in Turkey with a valid residence permit for at least five years.
  • Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate a basic knowledge of the Turkish language.
  • Financial Stability: You must prove that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself in Turkey.
  • Criminal Record: You must have a clean criminal record and provide a good conduct certificate issued by the police.

Exceptional Citizenship Criteria for Turkish Citizenship 

In certain cases, foreigners may be eligible for exceptional Turkish citizenship. One such condition is investing USD 500,000 in state borrowing instruments from the Ministry of Treasury and Finance and holding them for at least three years.

Benefits of Turkish Citizenship

Obtaining Turkish citizenship offers several benefits, including:

E-2 Visa Eligibility: Turkish citizens can more easily obtain an E-2 visa for the United States, which allows them to enter the country as entrepreneurs and expand their businesses.

Visa-Free Travel: Turkish citizens can enjoy visa-free travel to many countries worldwide.

Right to Vote: You can participate in Turkish elections and referendums.

Access to Public Services: You can access public services such as education and healthcare.

If you are interested in learning more about the conditions for obtaining Turkish citizenship or the benefits it offers, please feel free to contact specialized lawyers. The lawyers can provide you with expert guidance and assistance throughout the application process.

Istanbul.com is the Biggest Source on the Internet about Everything about Istanbul and Turkey!

There you have it! This blog post has explored the different pathways to obtaining Turkish citizenship. From marriage and descent to investment and naturalization, there are several options available. Remember, Istanbul.com is your one-stop shop for everything related to Turkey, especially to Istanbul! We are passionate about this beautiful country and its vibrant culture. Whether you're planning a visit, considering a move, or simply curious about Turkish citizenship, we have a wealth of information and resources to help you.

Explore our website for comprehensive guides on Istanbul, travel tips, cultural insights, and much more. We also offer a range of services to make your Turkish adventure seamless, from finding the perfect attractions to guided tours in Istanbul! We'll be here to guide you every step of the way!

Frequently Asked Question

Is a visa required?
EU nationals visiting Turkey for tourism or industry will no longer require a visa for stays of up to ninety days within a 180-day time frame.
In Istanbul, what language do they speak?
Turkish is the primary language of Turkey, and English is commonly spoken in Istanbul; tourists are often shocked by how well most Turks speak English. An endeavor to use Turkish, on the other hand, is deeply appreciated and regarded as good manners.
What is Turkey’s Local Currency?
The Turkish Lira is the Republic of Turkey's official currency. Cash can be exchanged for Turkish Lira at swap offices and financial institutions.