Changes in the Turkish Citizenship by Investment Law

As of January 1, 2023, new laws come into force when applying for Turkish citizenship by investing in real estate. Before we tell you about the changes, let us remind you that from June 13, 2022, an amendment was made to Article 20 of the Citizenship Law, which Turkish citizenship can now be obtained by investing in real estate of the cadastral value of at least 400,000 USD. The minimum amount remains the same, but stricter regulations have been introduced, which came into force on January 1, 2023.

Changes in Citizenship Law in Turkey

1. A participant in the investment program must purchase real estate from a Turk by birth who has owned the residence for at least three years.

2. Real estate is not eligible for citizenship if it has already been used in the investment program by other participants. That is, this or that real estate for obtaining Turkish citizenship counts only once.

3. Shared purchases of real estate will not be counted. This means that if the property is in joint ownership and even if the total cadastral value of the objects will be above 400 000 U.S. dollars, none of the owners will be able to obtain Turkish Citizenship through investment.

Note - The spouse and children under the age of 18 will be able to get citizenship together with the owner.

4. When applying for citizenship the properties must have the Title Deed (TAPU) ready. For example, if the buyer purchases a real estate object in a real estate development at the stage of excavation from the developer and TAPU is not ready, in this case, the applicant has to attach a preliminary agreement of purchase and sale certified at the notary office.

5. All purchased real estate under citizenship with a total cadastral value in excess of $400,000 must be included in one contract of sale and purchase and be notarized.

6. Before notarizing a purchase and sale agreement, you must obtain a bank statement in advance, on the exchange of currency into Turkish liras in the cadastral value of the property.

7. Citizenship is revoked if, after three years, the participant who obtained citizenship by investment resells the property to the former owner.

We are sure that every buyer wants to make the process of obtaining citizenship as easy as possible. With Realtor Global, you can not only choose a house by the sea but also become the owner of a Turkish passport. After all, in the process of selecting a property for citizenship, our sales managers and portfolio will offer you some options for properties that will fit the new changes in legislation. Also, the lawyers of our company will give professional advice and will accompany you at all stages of the application for Turkish citizenship by investing in real estate.