How to Become a Turkish Citizen: Comprehensive Guide to Turkish Citizenship Application

Turkey, a country strategically located between Europe and Asia, offers significant advantages for individuals seeking Turkish citizenship, dual nationality, investment opportunities, and a high quality of life.

With its strong economy, booming real estate sector, and increasingly foreigner-friendly citizenship laws, Turkey has become a top destination for global investors, retirees, and expatriates.

As a result, many individuals are interested in learning how to obtain Turkish citizenship through various legal pathways. Whether you’re planning to apply for Turkish citizenship by investment, marriage, long-term residence, or descent, understanding the official procedure is crucial for a successful application. This article provides a detailed overview of the Turkish citizenship application process, including the most common acquisition methods, required legal documents, eligibility criteria, and the invaluable role of an experienced citizenship lawyer in Turkey. From foreign real estate investors to international families, this guide aims to help you navigate each step confidently

What Are the Main Pathways to Turkish Citizenship?

There are several legal pathways to acquire Turkish citizenship, each tailored to different individual circumstances. Whether you are a foreign investor, a long-term resident, or someone with Turkish ancestry, the Turkish legal system provides multiple options for naturalization.

Here are the primary ways to become a Turkish citizen:

Citizenship by Birth

By Descent (Jus Sanguinis): Children born to at least one Turkish citizen parent are automatically granted Turkish citizenship, regardless of their country of birth. No formal application is needed; registration with the Turkish civil registry is sufficient.

By Birthplace (Jus Soli): Children born in Turkey who cannot inherit citizenship from their parents or are stateless may apply directly for Turkish citizenship, ensuring compliance with international human rights laws.

Turkish Citizenship by Application

General Turkish Citizenship Application Requirements

If you were not born a Turkish citizen, there are several legal procedures for acquiring Turkish nationality later in life.

The general pathway to Turkish citizenship includes the following conditions:

Legal residence in Turkey for at least 5 continuous years prior to application,
Demonstration of a genuine intention to settle in Turkey (e.g., purchasing real estate, starting a business),
Adequate proficiency in Turkish,
A clean criminal background,
Proof of financial stability and means of supporting oneself and dependents.

Required Documents for Turkish Citizenship Application

Applicants must prepare the following documents when applying for Turkish citizenship through general procedures:

A valid passport and its notarized Turkish translation,
A valid residence permit,
An official criminal record certificate,
Evidence of income, employment, or financial assets,
Biometric photographs and a fully completed application form.

Exceptional Citizenship – Turkish Citizenship by Investment

Turkish Citizenship by Investment (TCBI) is one of the most efficient and prestigious routes to acquire Turkish nationality. This method is especially popular among high-net-worth individuals and international investors seeking fast-track citizenship opportunities in Turkey.

Introduced by the Turkish government in 2017, the program aims to attract foreign capital and support the country’s economic growth. By meeting specific investment thresholds, eligible applicants can obtain Turkish citizenship by investment typically within 6 to 12 months.

Investment Options for Turkish Citizenship

Applicants must fulfill at least one of the following investment criteria:

Purchase real estate in Turkey worth a minimum of $400,000 USD with a commitment not to sell for three years.
Deposit at least $500,000 USD into a Turkish bank account for a period of three years.
Invest $500,000 USD in Turkish government bonds, capital investment funds, or venture capital funds approved by the Ministry of Treasury and Finance.
Create 50 full-time jobs for Turkish citizens, certified by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

These investment methods offer a streamlined path to acquire Turkish nationality, making them ideal for entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and global business professionals. To ensure compliance and maximize success, it is strongly advised to work with a lawyer experienced in Turkish citizenship law.

Why Work with a Turkish Citizenship Lawyer?

The Turkish citizenship application process by investment involves complex legal procedures, financial compliance checks, and multiple approvals from government ministries. To navigate this process successfully, it is highly recommended to work with an experienced Turkish citizenship lawyer.

Legal professionals provide essential support in the following areas:

Real estate acquisition and land registry transactions,
Fund transfers, bank communications, and financial documentation,
Employment verification and capital investment certification procedures.

Hiring a specialized lawyer for your Turkish citizenship by investment application ensures full legal compliance, reduces the likelihood of rejection, and speeds up the entire process. In metropolitan cities like Istanbul and Ankara, legal experts are particularly valuable in providing strategic guidance and seamless execution.

Turkey Citizenship by Marriage

One of the most accessible ways to become a Turkish citizen is through Turkey citizenship by marriage. This legal route allows foreign nationals who marry a Turkish citizen to apply for naturalization, as long as they meet the official requirements outlined in Turkish law.

Requirements for Acquiring Turkish Citizenship Through Marriage

To be eligible for Turkish citizenship through marriage, the applicant must satisfy the following conditions:

The couple must be legally married for at least three years,
The marriage must be genuine and not conducted solely for the purpose of acquiring citizenship,
The applicant must have good moral character and pose no threat to national security or public order.

It is important to note that marriage alone does not grant automatic Turkish citizenship. Instead, it opens the door for the foreign spouse to apply for citizenship through naturalization after the minimum marriage duration and other criteria are met.

Required Documents for the Turkey Citizenship by Marriage Process

Applicants must provide the following documents when applying for Turkish citizenship through marriage:

Valid marriage certificate,
Turkish ID or passport copy of the spouse,
Valid residence permit of the applicant,
Police clearance certificates from both Turkey and the applicant’s home country,
Passport and biometric photographs.

Each application is evaluated individually by the Provincial Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs. For the best results, applicants are strongly encouraged to consult a Turkish citizenship lawyer to ensure proper documentation and legal compliance.

Why Hire a Lawyer for Citizenship by Marriage?

It is highly recommended to work with a lawyer experienced in Turkish citizenship by marriage to ensure that the legal process is handled correctly and efficiently. A legal expert can guide you through the specific requirements of Turkish nationality law and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Hiring a citizenship lawyer for marriage-related applications offers the following advantages:

Ensure accurate preparation and timely submission of all required documents,
Prevent mistakes or omissions that may delay the approval process,
Provide professional legal support during investigation phases or interviews.

Having a qualified Turkish citizenship lawyer by your side significantly increases the chance of a successful outcome and helps streamline your application process in accordance with Turkish nationality regulations. This is especially important in sensitive cases where proof of a genuine marriage and compliance with national security standards are closely examined.

Acquisition of Turkish Citizenship by People of Turkish Descent

Turkish citizenship for people of Turkish descent is a unique and culturally significant pathway that honors the historical and ethnic connections between Turkey and Turkic communities worldwide. Under Citizenship Law No. 5901, the Republic of Turkey grants certain legal privileges to individuals of ethnic Turkish origin, particularly those who have preserved their cultural identity, language, and ties to the Turkish nation.

Who Is Considered a Person of Turkish Descent?

A person of Turkish descent is typically defined as an individual who is ethnically Turkish but holds citizenship of another country. This includes a wide range of communities with ancestral or linguistic links to the Turkish people. Examples include:

Citizens of Central Asian Turkic Republics such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan,
Turkish-origin minorities from Eastern Europe and the Balkans, including Bulgarian Turks, Western Thrace Turks, and Kosovo Turks,
Members of the Turkish diaspora such as Ahiska (Meskhetian) Turks, Crimean Tatars, and Uyghur Turks from the Xinjiang region.

These individuals are eligible to apply for Turkish citizenship by descent through a simplified process, provided they can demonstrate cultural affiliation and Turkish ethnic heritage.

How to Apply for Turkish Citizenship as a Person of Turkish Descent

Applicants must submit official documentation proving their Turkish lineage. The most commonly accepted documents include:

Family registries or historical identity records,
Certificates from Turkish cultural or diaspora associations,
Statements from embassies or consulates confirming Turkish ethnic background.

Additional requirements often include:

A valid short-term or long-term residence permit in Turkey,
Proof of cultural affiliation or active involvement in Turkish communities,
A clean criminal record and adherence to public order laws.

Although Turkish citizenship through Turkish descent is not granted automatically, the process is generally faster and more flexible than standard naturalization. Working with a Turkish citizenship lawyer who understands ethnic descent applications can significantly improve the quality of your submission and increase the likelihood of approval.

Reacquisition of Turkish Citizenship

Reacquiring Turkish citizenship is an available legal option for individuals who voluntarily renounced their Turkish nationality in the past but now wish to reestablish formal ties with the Republic of Turkey. This pathway is commonly used by Turkish-origin individuals living abroad, especially those who had to give up their citizenship due to dual nationality restrictions, employment in other countries, or migration.

Who Can Reapply for Turkish Citizenship?

The following individuals are eligible to regain Turkish citizenship under Law No. 5901 and its implementing regulations:

Individuals who renounced their Turkish nationality with the approval of the Ministry of Interior and are registered in the Blue Card system,
Former Turkish citizens who have not engaged in any activity that poses a threat to national security,
Individuals seeking to reintegrate into Turkish society for personal, professional, or familial reasons.

The reacquisition process requires submitting a formal application to the Provincial Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs. Applicants must provide valid identification, Blue Card or official renunciation records, and proof of legal residence in Turkey if applicable.

Consulting with a Turkish citizenship lawyer can ensure that your application is complete, compliant, and processed in a timely manner—especially if documentation from abroad must be translated or verified.

Turkish Citizenship Through Adoption

Turkish citizenship through adoption is available to foreign minors under the age of 18 who are legally adopted by Turkish citizens. This pathway grants the adopted child full rights as a Turkish national, provided the adoption complies with all legal requirements set forth in Turkish law.

Legal Requirements for Citizenship by Adoption

To be eligible for citizenship by adoption in Turkey, the following conditions must be met:

The adoption must be fully recognized under Turkish law,
The adoptee must be under the age of 18 at the time of application,
There must be no risk to public safety or national security.

A formal Turkish citizenship application is required and should include the following documentation:

Finalized court ruling confirming the legal adoption,
Birth certificate and legal guardianship papers of the child,
Identity documents of the adopting Turkish citizen,
Proof of the adoptee’s legal residence or domicile.

Once approved, the adopted child receives the full legal protections and benefits associated with Turkish nationality. It is advisable to work with a citizenship lawyer in Turkey to ensure that the adoption and citizenship procedures are properly handled and in compliance with national regulations.

Legal Support in Istanbul for Turkish Citizenship Applications

The Turkish citizenship application process—whether by investment, birth, marriage, or adoption—can be legally complex and involve strict documentation and government approvals. For foreign nationals, working with a Turkish citizenship lawyer in Istanbul is strongly recommended to ensure a smooth and successful application.

Qualified legal professionals can assist with:

Identifying the most suitable path to Turkish citizenship based on your situation,
Accurate preparation and translation of all required documents,
Timely submission of applications through the correct governmental channels,
Resolving any complications or rejections that may arise during the process.

Hiring an experienced lawyer in Turkish nationality law ensures that your application is compliant with all legal standards and is processed efficiently without unnecessary delays.

Professional Legal Services for Turkish Citizenship Applicants

Our law firm, based in Istanbul, offers professional and personalized legal support for individuals seeking to become Turkish citizens through a variety of legal pathways. Whether you’re applying through investment, marriage, descent, or general naturalization, our expert legal team provides end-to-end assistance tailored to your needs.

Our Legal Services Include:

Comprehensive guidance on how to become a Turkish citizen through all available legal methods,
Professional preparation and submission of Turkish citizenship application documents,
Legal representation for Turkish citizenship by investment, including real estate acquisition, fund transfers, and ministry coordination,
Support in complex citizenship cases such as citizenship by marriage in Turkey, reacquisition of citizenship, or for individuals of Turkish ethnic descent.

If you are actively preparing a Turkish citizenship application or planning to invest in Turkey, partnering with a qualified citizenship lawyer in Istanbul is essential. Legal expertise ensures your application process is accurate, timely, and fully compliant with Turkish law—helping you avoid costly rejections and delays.

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

Located in Istanbul, our law office has been providing reliable Turkish citizenship consultancy services for years. We assist foreign investors, expatriates, and international professionals in securing their legal future in Turkey through a variety of citizenship pathways.

Our experienced Turkish citizenship lawyers guide you from start to finish.
All documentation is prepared accurately, completely, and efficiently.
Your investment and naturalization processes are managed by legal experts.
We offer tailored legal solutions for unique cases such as citizenship by marriage, adoption, and ethnic Turkish descent.

Contact Us

For a fast, reliable, and legally compliant Turkish citizenship application, feel free to contact our team. Our experienced lawyers in Istanbul are ready to provide you with personalized support and effective solutions tailored to your goals.

Phone: +90 530 182 85 98
Email: info@partnersasb.com

Useful Links for Turkish Citizenship Application

Explore official resources and government portals to assist you with the Turkish citizenship application process:

CITIZENSHIP - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Who is eligible for a Turkish passport?

Eligibility for a Turkish passport includes individuals who acquire Turkish citizenship by birth, naturalization, marriage, investment, or descent. Applicantsmust meet legal criteria, have no national security risks, and complete therequired documentation.

How much does it cost to get Turkish citizenship?

The cost of obtaining Turkish citizenship varies by method. For citizenship by
investment, the minimum investment starts at $400,000 for real estate or $500,000
for bank deposits or capital investments, excluding legal and processing fees.

What is the fastest way to get Turkish citizenship?

The fastest way to get Turkish citizenship is through the Turkish Citizenship by
Investment program. By investing at least $400,000 in real estate or depositing
$500,000 in a Turkish bank, citizenship can be obtained within 6–12 months.

How to become a Turkish citizen through investment?

You can apply for Turkish citizenship by investment by purchasing real estate worth at
least $400,000 USD, making a $500,000 USD bank deposit, investing in government
bonds, or employing at least 50 Turkish citizens.

How long does the Turkish citizenship application process take?

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months for Turkish citizenship by investment and 1 to
2 years for general applications.

What happens to the spouse and children after the Turkish citizenship application?

As a general rule, along with the main applicant, the spouse and children under the age
of 18 are also eligible to acquire Turkish citizenship.

What documents are required for a Turkish citizenship application?

Essential documents include a valid passport, residence permit, criminal record
certificate, proof of income, biometric photographs, and completed application forms.

For Turkey citizenship by marriage, additional documents such as the marriage
certificate and spouse’s Turkish ID are required.

Can the Turkish citizenship application be rejected?

Yes, applications can be rejected if legal conditions are not met or documentation is
incomplete. In such cases, a qualified lawyer can assist with the appeal process.

Do I need a lawyer for the Turkish citizenship application?

While it is not mandatory, working with an experienced lawyer greatly increases the
chances of success and ensures that the process runs smoothly, particularly for
investment and marriage-based applications.

Secure Your Turkish Citizenship With Confidence – Contact Us Today

Whether you’re applying for Turkish citizenship by investment, marriage, or descent, our expert lawyers are here to guide you. We ensure a fast, compliant, and stress-free application process tailored to your unique needs.