Population
GDP (per capital)
Visa-Free Countries
GDP (purchasing power parity)
-
How to Immigrate to Turkey by Investment in 2025
-
Turkey has become an increasingly attractive destination for investors seeking residency or citizenship, thanks to its strong economy, strategic position between continents, and streamlined legal pathways. The country offers several routes for investment-based immigration, including real estate purchases, capital contributions, and business formation.
-
Recent updates in 2024 and 2025 have introduced new requirements—such as biometric registration and stricter documentation—making it essential for applicants to stay informed. This article outlines the latest regulations, financial thresholds, and procedures to help prospective investors navigate the process with confidence.
- Main Industries
- Textile and Apparel Manufacturing
- Electronics and Electrical Equipment
- Tourism and Hospitality Services
- Mining and Natural Resources
- Industrial and Automotive Manufacturing
- Agriculture and Food Processing
UTC+3
783,356 km2
Turkish Lira
Ankara
Turkish
Overview of the Citizenship by Investment Program
Launched in 2017, Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Program has gained international recognition as a swift and reliable route for acquiring a second citizenship. Designed to attract foreign capital and stimulate economic growth, the program allows qualified investors to obtain Turkish nationality within an average of three to six months—making it one of the fastest pathways globally.
The appeal lies not only in the efficiency of the process but also in the benefits that follow. Turkish citizenship offers increased global mobility, access to Turkey’s robust healthcare and education systems, and the right to live, work, and invest in a dynamic, strategically positioned economy.
As of 2025, the program includes several qualifying options:
- Real Estate Investment: Purchase property worth at least USD 400,000, with a mandatory holding period of three years.
- Bank Deposit: Place a minimum of USD 500,000 in a Turkish bank account for at least three years.
- Government Bonds, Capital Investment, or Venture Funds: Commit USD 500,000 into approved financial instruments or Turkish investment funds.
- Job Creation: Establish a business that employs at least 50 Turkish nationals, contributing directly to local employment.
Each pathway is subject to regulatory compliance and due diligence, but all offer a gateway to full Turkish citizenship for investors and, in most cases, their immediate family members.
-
Recent Program Updates (2024–2025)
-
In response to growing international interest and evolving global standards, Turkey has introduced several key adjustments to its Citizenship by Investment Program in recent years.
-
One of the most significant changes came in 2022, when the real estate investment threshold was increased from USD 250,000 to USD 400,000. This amount remains unchanged as of 2025 and continues to apply to all property-based applications.
-
Further reforms were implemented in 2024 to enhance transparency and security within the process:
- The YUVAM account option, previously available for foreign currency deposits, has been officially discontinued. However, the USD 500,000 fixed-term bank deposit remains a valid and stable investment route.
- Biometric verification is now mandatory. Applicants and their spouses must personally attend an appointment at the Fatih Immigration Office in Istanbul to submit fingerprints as part of the application procedure.
- A criminal background check is now required from the home country or legal residence of both the principal investor and their spouse. This measure aims to uphold the integrity of the program and ensure international compliance.
-
These updates reflect Turkey’s commitment to maintaining a high standard for its investment immigration framework while continuing to offer a streamlined path to citizenship for eligible foreign nationals.
Step-by-Step Immigrant Investor Process
Step-by-Step Immigrant Investor Process
Navigating the investment immigration journey in Turkey involves a clear sequence of steps designed to ensure compliance and a smooth experience.
Step 1: Choose Your Investment Option
Begin by selecting the investment type that best suits your goals—whether it’s real estate, bank deposit, government bonds, or business creation. Following your choice, obtain a conformance certificate from the relevant Turkish authority to confirm that your investment meets the program’s criteria.
Step 2: Establish Financial Transactions
Open a Turkish bank account to facilitate the required financial transactions. For real estate purchases, payments must be made through a Turkish bank transfer to ensure transparency and regulatory compliance.
Step 3: Apply for an Investment Residence Permit
Submit your application for an investment-based residence permit along with all necessary documentation. At this stage, both you and your spouse are required to provide biometric data in person, typically at the designated immigration office.
Step 4: Fulfill the Holding Period and Apply for Citizenship
Maintain the investment for a minimum of three years. After this period, you may proceed to apply for Turkish citizenship. This final step includes another biometric appointment to verify your identity.
Timeline Overview:
The residence permit application typically takes 15 to 45 days for approval, while citizenship is usually granted within three to six months after submitting the citizenship application.
By following these steps carefully, investors can confidently progress towards obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment while adhering to all legal requirements.
Costs & Financial Considerations
When planning to immigrate to Turkey through investment, understanding the financial commitments involved is crucial.
The primary investment thresholds stand at USD 400,000 for real estate purchases and USD 500,000 for other qualifying options, such as bank deposits or government bonds. These minimums represent the core financial outlay required to qualify for citizenship under the program.
Beyond the investment itself, applicants should anticipate several additional expenses associated with the application process:
- Investor Visa Fees: Typically ranging from USD 200 to 300, these fees cover the initial visa application necessary for entering and residing in Turkey during the investment phase.
- Legal and Translation Services: Depending on the complexity of your case, professional assistance—including document translation and legal representation—can cost between USD 500 and 1,000.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for residence permits, annual health insurance premiums generally fall between USD 50 and 100.
Additional official charges may apply for services such as residence permit issuance, biometric data collection, and notarization or translation of documents. Being aware of these costs upfront allows investors to budget accurately and avoid surprises during the application process.
Advantages and Broader Benefits
Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Program offers a range of compelling benefits that make it an attractive option for investors worldwide.
- One of the most significant advantages is the expedited processing time, with applicants typically receiving full citizenship within three to six months. This swift timeline allows investors and their families to access the privileges of Turkish nationality without prolonged delays.
- Additionally, Turkish citizenship grants holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to more than 110 countries, facilitating seamless international travel and expanding global mobility.
- Citizens also enjoy considerable flexibility in work and residence options. Moreover, Turkish citizenship can serve as a valuable stepping stone for those seeking eligibility for the U.S. E-2 investor visa, providing further opportunities for business and residence in the United States.
- Importantly, Turkey permits dual nationality, enabling investors to retain their original citizenship while benefiting from all the rights and privileges of Turkish citizenship.
These features collectively underscore the program’s appeal, offering investors a practical, efficient path to new opportunities and enhanced global access.
Potential Risks & Important Considerations
While Turkey’s investment immigration program presents many benefits, investors should carefully consider several important factors:
Economic instability:
Inflation and fluctuations in the property market can affect the value and security of investments, making thorough market analysis and expert consultation crucial.
Discontinuation of exchange protection scheme (KKM):
After 2025, new accounts will no longer be covered by this protection, though existing accounts will retain their safeguards. This change may impact currency risk management strategies.
Increased scrutiny:
The due diligence process involves detailed background checks and grants authority’s broad discretion over approval decisions, emphasizing the need for complete transparency and precise documentation.
Updated biometric requirements:
Recent regulations mandate that investors and their spouses attend two in-person biometric appointments in Turkey during the application and citizenship stages, highlighting the importance of personal compliance with procedural obligations.
Being aware of these factors enables investors to approach the process with caution and informed judgment, paving the way for a successful application.
Final word
Turkey’s investment immigration program offers a streamlined and attractive pathway to citizenship, blending economic opportunity with the benefits of global mobility. With its strategic position, dynamic economy, and welcoming policies, Turkey continues to draw investors seeking not only financial growth but also a new home. While the program’s advantages—such as fast processing times, multiple investment options, and visa-free travel—are compelling, it is equally important to consider the potential risks and evolving regulations. Careful planning, due diligence, and professional guidance can help applicants navigate these complexities smoothly. Ultimately, obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment opens doors to a wealth of opportunities, making it an appealing choice for those looking to expand their horizons in 2025 and beyond.
FAQ about Immigrate to Turkey by Investment
What is the minimum investment required to qualify for Turkish citizenship?
The minimum investment threshold is US $400,000 for real estate or US $500,000 for options such as bank deposits, government bonds, or capital investment.
How long does the citizenship application process take after investing?
Typically, the process takes between 3 to 6 months after submitting the citizenship application, following a minimum holding period of 3 years for certain investment types.
Are there any biometric or in-person requirements?
Yes, applicants and their spouses must provide fingerprints and attend biometric appointments in Turkey during both the residence permit application and citizenship stages.
Can investors hold dual citizenship after obtaining Turkish citizenship?
Yes, Turkey permits dual nationality, allowing investors to retain their original citizenship alongside Turkish citizenship.
Looking for expert visa support?
PROGRAM MATCH
Compare the different programs in a nutshell and discover their features
PROGRAM COST
Check the cost estimates for each offered program
PROGRAM MAP
Explore the power of global mobility for every passport in the world