Since its inception in 2017, the Turkish CBI Program, Citizenship by Investment Program has become one of the most attractive and cost-effective pathways for foreign investors seeking citizenship in a country that bridges Europe and Asia. At Akkas & Associates Law Firm, Istanbul’s premier full-service legal practice since 1992, we provide expert guidance to investors navigating this program, ensuring a smooth and legally compliant process.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the Turkish CBI Program
- Investment Options Under the Turkish CBI Program
- The Seamless Path to Turkish Citizenship with Akkas & Associates Law Firm
- Key Benefits of Turkish Citizenship by Investment
- Frequently Asked Questions about the Turkish CBI Program
- Contact us for the Turkish CBI Program
Understanding the Turkish CBI Program
The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program offers several attractive investment options. As of 2025, the most popular and straightforward routes typically involve real estate acquisition or capital investment.
1. Real Estate Acquisition: This is by far the most preferred route due to its tangibility and potential for capital appreciation. To qualify, an applicant must purchase real estate with a minimum value of USD 400,000. The purchased property must be held for a minimum of three years. This can be a single property or multiple properties, residential or commercial, providing flexibility to investors.
Our firm specializes in assisting clients with comprehensive due diligence on properties, ensuring secure and compliant transactions. For more details on Turkish Real Estate Law, please refer to our dedicated article on the subject, Turkish Real Estate Lawyers: Navigating Property Investments in Turkey.
2. Capital Investment: Applicants can also opt to make a capital investment of at least USD 500,000 in a Turkish bank, which must be held for a minimum of three years. This can include depositing the sum in a Turkish bank account or investing in government bonds.
3. Job Creation: Another pathway involves creating employment for at least 50 Turkish citizens, as certified by the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Services.
4. Investment in a Real Estate Investment Fund Share or Venture Capital Investment Fund Share: An investment of at least USD 500,000 in a real estate investment fund share or venture capital investment fund share, held for a minimum of three years, also qualifies.
Important Note: It is crucial to engage with experienced legal professionals to ensure strict compliance with all requirements, particularly regarding valuation, transfer of funds, and holding periods. The regulations can evolve, and expert guidance is essential for a successful application.
Investment Options Under the Turkish CBI Program
Applicants must fulfill one of the following investment criteria, which must be maintained for a minimum of three years:
| Investment Type | Minimum Amount (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Purchase | $400,000 | Investment in residential or commercial real estate, confirmed by the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization. |
| Fixed Capital Contribution | $500,000 | Investment in a Turkish company or business. |
| Bank Deposit | $500,000 | Deposit in a Turkish bank account in Turkish Lira or foreign currency. |
| Government Bonds | $500,000 | Purchase of government bonds. |
| Real Estate Investment or Venture Capital Fund | $500,000 | Investment in approved real estate or venture capital funds. |
| Job Creation | N/A | Creation of at least 50 jobs, verified by the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Services. |
The principal applicant can include their spouse, children under 18, and disabled dependents of any age in the application
The Seamless Path to Turkish Citizenship with Akkas & Associates Law Firm
The application process for the Turkish CBI Program, while seemingly straightforward, involves several critical steps that require meticulous attention to detail and expert legal guidance. Akkas & Associates Law Firm, with our extensive experience since 1992, ensures a smooth and efficient journey for our clients.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Strategy Development Our process begins with a detailed consultation to understand your specific needs and objectives. We then devise a tailored strategy, advising on the most suitable investment option and outlining all necessary documentation.
Step 2: Investment Execution We assist you in executing your chosen investment, whether it’s identifying and purchasing suitable real estate, opening bank accounts, or facilitating other investment avenues. Our team ensures all transactions comply with Turkish legal frameworks and CBI requirements.
Step 3: Obtaining the Certificate of Conformity Once the investment is made, we prepare and submit the necessary applications to the relevant governmental authorities (e.g., Ministry of Environment and Urbanization for real estate, Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency for bank deposits) to obtain a “Certificate of Conformity.” This certificate confirms that your investment meets the CBI program criteria.
Step 4: Residency Permit Application With the Certificate of Conformity in hand, we proceed with your short-term residency permit application. This step typically requires a brief visit to Turkey. Our lawyers will guide you through the process, ensuring all documents are in order and appointments are scheduled efficiently.
Step 5: Citizenship Application Submission Upon obtaining the residency permit, we compile and submit your comprehensive citizenship application file to the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs. This involves a thorough review of all personal documents, certifications, and translations. Our team meticulously prepares every aspect of your application to minimize delays and ensure a high success rate.
Step 6: Due Diligence and Approval The Turkish government conducts thorough due diligence on all applicants. With our expertise, we ensure that your application meets all legal requirements and that you are well-prepared for any potential inquiries. Once the review is complete and approval is granted, the Presidential decision for your citizenship is issued.
Step 7: Passport Issuance Finally, upon receipt of your Naturalization Certificate, we assist you in applying for your Turkish passport and national ID card.
The entire process, from investment to passport issuance, typically takes between 6 to 9 months, though individual cases may vary. Transparency and efficiency are paramount to our firm’s approach, keeping clients informed at every stage.
Key Benefits of Turkish Citizenship by Investment
- No Residency Requirement: Investors are not required to live in Turkey before or after obtaining citizenship.
- Fast Processing: Citizenship can be granted within 3 to 6 months after the investment is made.
- Visa-Free Travel: Turkish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 118 countries, including Japan, Singapore, and South Korea.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Turkey recognizes dual citizenship, allowing investors to maintain their original nationality alongside Turkish citizenship.
- Access to a Strategic Location: Turkey’s unique position as a transcontinental country offers access to both European and Asian markets.
- Business and Lifestyle Opportunities: Turkish citizenship grants the right to live, work, study, and establish businesses without restrictions.
Why Choose Akkas & Associates Law Firm?
As one of Istanbul’s premier full-service law firms, Akkas & Associates has a proven track record of successfully guiding countless international clients through the complexities of Turkish law. Our dedication to excellence, profound understanding of the Turkish legal landscape, and client-centric approach set us apart.
- Experience and Expertise: Established in 1992, our firm possesses decades of specialized experience in immigration law, real estate law, and corporate law – all critical components of the CBI program. Our lawyers are intimately familiar with the nuances of Turkish regulations and administrative procedures.
- Comprehensive Service: We offer end-to-end legal support, from initial consultation and investment advisory to application submission, follow-up, and passport collection. We handle all legal intricacies, allowing you to focus on your personal and business goals.
- Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize clear communication, responsiveness, and personalized attention. Your success is our success, and we are committed to providing the highest level of professional service.
- Istanbul-Based Advantage: Our physical presence in Istanbul provides us with direct access to all relevant government departments and agencies, facilitating quicker processing and efficient problem-solving.
- Multilingual Team: Our diverse team includes lawyers fluent in several languages, ensuring seamless communication with our international clientele.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Turkish CBI Program
As Akkas & Associates Law Firm, we understand that prospective applicants for the Turkish Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program often have numerous questions. To provide clarity and comprehensive information, we have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions based on our extensive experience and common inquiries from our clients.
Q1: What is the minimum investment required to obtain Turkish Citizenship by Investment? A1: As of 2025, the most common minimum investment amount for real estate acquisition is USD 400,000. Other investment options, such as bank deposits or capital investment funds, typically require a minimum of USD 500,000.
Q2: Can I purchase multiple properties to meet the minimum investment threshold? A2: Yes, you can generally purchase multiple properties, whether residential or commercial, to reach the minimum investment amount of USD 400,000. However, it’s crucial that all properties are registered under your name and that their combined value, as determined by an official valuation report, meets the threshold. It’s often recommended that these properties are registered on the same day for a smoother process.
Q3: Is it possible to obtain Turkish citizenship by investing in a property that is under construction or through a preliminary sales contract? A3: Yes, in some cases, it is possible to apply with a notarized preliminary sales contract, provided it confirms the property transfer will occur within three years and a down payment meeting the minimum investment requirement has been made. However, the final deed transfer (Tapu) is usually a prerequisite for the full citizenship application. It is crucial to have legal guidance to navigate this option correctly.
Q4: Do I need to reside in Turkey for a specific period to qualify or maintain my Turkish citizenship? A4: No, one of the significant advantages of the Turkish CBI Program is that there is no mandatory residency requirement before, during, or after the application process. You are not required to live in Turkey to obtain or maintain your citizenship.
Q5: Can my family members be included in my Turkish citizenship application? A5: Yes, the Turkish CBI Program is family-friendly. The main applicant can include their spouse and dependent children under the age of 18 in the same application. This provides a pathway to a new future for your entire immediate family.
Q6: Is dual citizenship allowed in Turkey? A6: Yes, Turkey permits dual (and even multiple) citizenship. You are not required to renounce your original nationality when you acquire Turkish citizenship, provided your home country also allows dual citizenship.
Q7: How long does the Turkish CBI application process typically take? A7: The overall process, from making the investment to receiving your Turkish passport, typically takes between 6 to 9 months. This includes securing the Certificate of Conformity, obtaining a short-term residency permit, and the final citizenship application and approval.
Q8: Are there any language requirements or interviews for the Turkish CBI Program? A8: No, there are no language proficiency requirements or mandatory interviews for applicants pursuing Turkish citizenship through the investment program.
Q9: What are the main benefits of holding a Turkish passport? A9: A Turkish passport offers numerous benefits, including:
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries.
- Eligibility for the E-2 Investor Visa to the United States, allowing Turkish citizens to live and work in the USA by investing in a U.S. business.
- Access to a strategic location bridging Europe and Asia.
- Opportunities within a robust and growing economy.
- High quality of life with excellent healthcare and a rich cultural heritage.
- Dual citizenship permitted.
Q10: What are the associated costs and fees beyond the investment amount? A10: Beyond the minimum investment, applicants should anticipate additional costs, including:
- Government application fees.
- Due diligence fees.
- Legal service fees (for firms like Akkas & Associates).
- Real estate transfer taxes (e.g., 4% title deed tax for property purchases).
- Valuation report fees for real estate.
- Passport issuance fees. These fees can vary, and our firm provides a transparent breakdown of all anticipated costs during the initial consultation.
Q11: Can I sell my investment property after obtaining citizenship? A11: To maintain your Turkish citizenship obtained through real estate, you are required to hold the property for a minimum of three years from the date of purchase. After this period, you are free to sell the property.
Q12: Is a police clearance certificate or criminal record check required? A12: Yes, all applicants aged 18 and over are generally required to provide a clean criminal record certificate from their country of origin and any country where they have resided for a significant period. This is part of the due diligence process.
Q13: Do I need to declare my global wealth or source of funds to the Turkish authorities? A13: While you typically do not need to declare your overall personal wealth to the Turkish tax authorities, you will need to provide documentation demonstrating the legal source of the funds used for your investment. This is part of the anti-money laundering (AML) and due diligence checks.
Q14: How can Akkas & Associates Law Firm assist me with the Turkish CBI Program? A14: Akkas & Associates provides comprehensive, end-to-end legal services for the Turkish CBI Program. Our assistance includes:
- Initial consultation and personalized strategy development.
- Identifying and vetting suitable investment opportunities (especially real estate).
- Handling all legal aspects of the investment transaction.
- Preparing and submitting all required documentation.
- Liaising with relevant government agencies on your behalf.
- Guiding you through the residency permit application.
- Managing the entire citizenship application process up to passport issuance.
- Providing ongoing legal advice and support.
For any further specific questions or to begin your application, please do not hesitate to contact Akkas & Associates Law Firm for a personalized consultation.
Contact us for the Turkish CBI Program
Obtaining Turkish citizenship through the Citizenship by Investment Program offers a range of investment options and numerous benefits. As you embark on this transformative journey, let Akkas & Associates Law Firm be your trusted partner, guiding you through the intricate legal landscape with professionalism and expertise.
Contact us today to embark on your path to Turkish citizenship through the Turkish CBI Program.
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