The Turkish Passport has become an attractive option for global investors, entrepreneurs, and families seeking greater international mobility, business opportunities, and lifestyle benefits. Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers a streamlined process, allowing investors to acquire citizenship in a short time while enjoying the benefits of living in a thriving nation bridging Europe and Asia.
In this blog, we will walk you through the procedures of obtaining a Turkish Passport through investment and outline the key benefits of this program.
Procedures to Obtain a Turkish Passport Through Investment
1. Choose the Investment Option
The Turkish CBI program offers several investment routes. You can select the one that best aligns with your financial goals and long-term plans:
- Real Estate Investment: Investors can purchase real estate valued at a minimum of $400,000. The property must be held for at least three years, during which it cannot be sold or transferred.
- Capital Investment: Another option is to make a $500,000 capital investment in a Turkish company, bonds, or a Turkish bank deposit, which must also be maintained for three years.
- Job Creation: Alternatively, you can create employment opportunities for at least 50 Turkish nationals, which will also qualify you for citizenship.
2. Prepare the Required Documents
Once you’ve selected your investment route, you will need to gather the following documents:
- Valid passport of all applicants
- Birth certificates and marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of investment, such as property title deeds or bank statements
- Clear criminal record certificates from your country of residence
- Health insurance valid in Turkey
- Photographs (biometric)
All documents must be translated into Turkish and notarized or apostilled.
3. Complete the Investment
After selecting the investment route, you must complete the investment process. This can be done with the help of a local legal advisor or a real estate agent, ensuring that all transactions are properly recorded and meet the program’s criteria.
- For Real Estate: You must purchase property worth at least $400,000, and a valuation report must confirm the property value.
- For Bank Deposits: Open a bank account in Turkey and deposit the required amount, keeping it for at least three years.
- For Employment: You must establish a company or business that will employ 50 Turkish nationals.
4. Apply for Residency
Once your investment is confirmed, you can apply for a Turkish residency permit. This is a crucial step as you need a valid residency status to proceed with the citizenship application. The residency process is relatively straightforward and takes only a few weeks.
5. Submit the Citizenship Application
With your residency permit in hand, you can submit your citizenship application to the Provincial Directorate of Immigration Administration or the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs. The following documents will be required:
- Proof of investment
- Residency permit
- Personal information forms
- Passport copies
- Health insurance
6. Await Approval
The Turkish government will thoroughly review your application. The processing time is generally between 3 to 6 months. Once approved, you and your family members (spouse and children under 18) will receive Turkish citizenship and the much-coveted Turkish Passport.
Benefits of Obtaining a Turkish Passport
1. Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Travel
One of the most significant advantages of holding a Turkish Passport is the freedom of travel it offers. Turkish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries, including popular destinations like Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and several South American countries. Although Turkey is not part of the EU, ongoing negotiations may expand visa-free travel opportunities within the Schengen Zone in the near future.
2. Citizenship for the Whole Family
When you obtain Turkish citizenship, it extends to your immediate family members, including your spouse and children under 18, at no additional investment. Moreover, Turkey allows dual citizenship, so you don’t need to renounce your current nationality.
3. Business and Investment Opportunities
As a Turkish citizen, you will have full access to the thriving Turkish economy, which serves as a gateway between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Turkey is part of the EU Customs Union, enabling you to trade freely with European countries. Additionally, you can benefit from Turkey’s favorable tax system for international investors.
4. No Residency Requirements
Unlike other CBI programs, Turkey does not impose strict residency requirements. You can obtain a Turkish passport without the need to live in the country. This flexibility makes it an ideal option for investors who prefer to maintain their base in another country but want the benefits of a second passport.
5. Access to Healthcare and Education
Turkey offers world-class healthcare and education systems. As a Turkish citizen, you and your family will have access to free or low-cost healthcare and education, including top international schools and universities.
6. Strategic Location
Turkey’s strategic location makes it an ideal place to live or invest. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey provides easy access to major global markets. Whether you’re interested in business, travel, or education, having a Turkish passport opens up a wealth of opportunities.
7. Path to U.S. Residency (E-2 Visa)
Another indirect benefit of obtaining a Turkish Passport is access to the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa. While Turkey has a treaty with the U.S., Turkish citizens can apply for this visa to live and work in the United States by making a substantial investment in a U.S.-based business.
8. Rich Culture and Quality of Life
Turkey offers an unparalleled mix of modern infrastructure and rich cultural heritage. As a Turkish citizen, you can enjoy a high standard of living with access to modern amenities, vibrant cities like Istanbul, and beautiful coastlines along the Mediterranean and Aegean seas.
Conclusion
The Turkish Passport is not just a travel document; it’s a gateway to a wealth of opportunities in business, lifestyle, and international mobility. Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program offers a fast-track process for investors to acquire citizenship within a few months, without the need for lengthy residency periods.
If you are looking for a cost-effective and flexible second passport option, the Turkish Citizenship by Investment program is an excellent choice. With minimal bureaucracy and multiple investment options, Turkey’s CBI program remains one of the most attractive on the market. Read more about the program https://citizenshiphubs.com/cbi-turkey/ and contact us https://citizenshiphubs.com/contact-us/ to book an appointment with our consultants. Also read and learn more about the real estate investment program https://citizenshiphubs.com/turkiye-real-estate/.
