Turkey, a vibrant and culturally rich country straddling Europe and Asia, has become an attractive destination for individuals seeking to obtain Turkish citizenship by marriage. We provide comprehensive insights into the laws, regulations, and procedures governing Turkish citizenship by marriage.
Marriage to a Turkish citizen opens a direct pathway to Turkish citizenship, offering foreign nationals the opportunity to become part of one of the world’s most strategically positioned countries. As experienced immigration lawyers at Akkas & Associates Law Firm, we have guided hundreds of clients through this complex process since 1992, helping them navigate the legal requirements and bureaucratic challenges that accompany citizenship applications through marriage.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the Legal Framework: Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901
- Step 1: Fulfilling the Core Eligibility Criteria – The 3-Year Marriage Rule and Beyond
- Step 2: Gathering the Essential Documentation – A Checklist for Success
- Step 3: Submitting Your Application – Where and How to Apply
- Step 4: The Interview Process – Demonstrating a Genuine Marriage
- Step 5: The Evaluation and Decision Process – Patience is Key
- Step 6: Post-Citizenship Considerations – What Happens Next?
- Step 7: Seeking Professional Legal Guidance – The Akkas & Associates Advantage
- Contact us for Turkish Citizenship by Marriage
Understanding the Legal Framework: Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901
The foundation for acquiring Turkish citizenship by marriage lies in Law No. 5901 on Turkish Citizenship. This law stipulates that foreign individuals who have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years, and whose marriage is still ongoing, may apply to acquire Turkish citizenship.
It’s crucial to understand that simply marrying a Turkish citizen does not instantly grant you citizenship. There are specific conditions designed to ensure the authenticity and stability of the marital union, as well as to safeguard public order and national security.
Step 1: Fulfilling the Core Eligibility Criteria – The 3-Year Marriage Rule and Beyond
The most fundamental requirement for applying for Turkish citizenship by marriage is to have been legally married to a Turkish citizen for a minimum of three years. Furthermore, your marriage must still be ongoing at the time of your application. But the criteria extend beyond just the duration of the marriage:
- Living in Family Unity: The law emphasizes that applicants must be living within the family unity. This means demonstrating that you share a genuine marital life with your Turkish spouse. Authorities will assess the authenticity of the marriage through various means, including shared residence, joint activities, and mutual commitment. This is where meticulous documentation and potentially an interview become crucial.
- Absence of Activities Incompatible with Marriage: You must not be engaged in any activities that are deemed incompatible with the marital union. This generally refers to actions that undermine the sanctity or legitimacy of the marriage, such as engaging in fraudulent marriages solely for the purpose of obtaining citizenship.
- No Threat to National Security or Public Order: This is a broad but critical criterion. Applicants must not have any situation that would pose an obstacle to national security or public order. This involves a thorough background check, including criminal records from both Turkey and your home country.
Important Note: In the unfortunate event that the Turkish citizen spouse passes away after the citizenship application has been submitted, the condition of living within the family unity is no longer required. However, the initial three-year marriage duration still stands.
Step 2: Gathering the Essential Documentation – A Checklist for Success
The application process for Turkish citizenship is document-heavy. Preparing all necessary paperwork accurately and comprehensively is vital to avoid delays and potential rejections. While the exact list may vary slightly, generally, you will need to compile the following:
- Application Form (VAT-6): This is the official application form for acquiring Turkish citizenship through marriage.
- Biometric Photographs: Usually, two biometric photographs measuring 50×60 mm, with a white background and complying with ICAO standards, are required.
- Passport or Similar Identity Document: Your valid passport, or a similar document indicating your country of citizenship, along with a notarized Turkish translation.
- Duly Authenticated Identity Information Document: A notarized Turkish translation of a document (e.g., birth certificate, national ID) showing all your identity information to be used for registration.
- Residence Permit: If your place of residence is in Turkey, you must provide your latest dated residence permit. For information on obtaining a Turkish Residence Permit, you may find our article on “How to Obtain a Turkish Residence Permit” a valuable resource.
- Certified Copy of Criminal Record: If there is a final court decision regarding any criminal offense, a certified copy of the decision is required. A clean criminal record from both Turkey and your home country is generally expected.
- Receipt of Service Fee Payment: Proof of payment for the application service fee at the Treasury.
- Marriage Certificate: The original marriage certificate proving that you have been married for three years and that the marriage is still ongoing.
- Original Birth Certificate: Your original birth certificate, duly authenticated (e.g., with an Apostille or consular legalization), along with a notarized Turkish translation.
- Population Registration Document of Turkish Citizen Spouse: This document provides details of your Turkish spouse’s civil registration.
- Proof of Shared Residence: Documents demonstrating that you and your spouse live together, such as utility bills in both names, rental agreements, property deeds, or official address registration records.
- Evidence of Marital Authenticity: This can include photographs of your wedding and shared life, joint bank statements, character reference letters, and any other documents that prove the genuine nature of your marital union.
It is highly recommended to have all foreign documents officially translated into Turkish by a sworn translator and duly apostilled or legalized by the relevant Turkish consulate in your home country or by the authorities in Turkey, depending on the country of origin.
Step 3: Submitting Your Application – Where and How to Apply
Applications for Turkish citizenship by marriage are typically submitted to the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs of the Ministry of Interior in the province where you reside. Abroad, applications can be made to the Turkish consulates.
- In-Person Application: Applications must generally be made in person. Applications submitted by mail are usually not accepted.
- Minors or Incapacitated Individuals: For minors or those lacking the power of discernment, applications are made by their parents or legal guardians.
- Application Date: The official application date is considered to be when your petition and documents are recorded in the document registry by the application authority.
Step 4: The Interview Process – Demonstrating a Genuine Marriage
A crucial part of the Turkish citizenship by marriage process often involves an interview. Both you and your Turkish spouse may be called for an interview to assess the authenticity of your marriage and your understanding of Turkish society and language.
- Interview Focus: The interview aims to ascertain that your marriage is genuine and not a marriage of convenience. Questions may cover aspects of your daily life, how you met, your future plans, and your knowledge of each other.
- Turkish Language Proficiency: While not always an explicit prerequisite for the application, demonstrating an adequate command of the Turkish language can significantly strengthen your case and facilitate integration into Turkish society. It is often evaluated during the interview.
- Cultural Understanding: You may also be assessed on your understanding of Turkish culture and basic constitutional rights.
It’s advisable to be prepared for this interview and to present a consistent and truthful account of your marital life.
Step 5: The Evaluation and Decision Process – Patience is Key
Once your application and interview are complete, your file will be evaluated by the relevant authorities. The processing time can vary significantly depending on the volume of applications and individual circumstances. On average, the process may take several months, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, or even longer in some cases.
- Discretionary Power: It’s important to remember that even if you meet all the stipulated conditions, the granting of Turkish citizenship is ultimately at the discretion of the competent authority.
- Potential for Rejection: An application can be rejected due to a lack of conditions listed in the law or at the discretion of the authorities if concerns regarding the authenticity of the marriage, public order, or national security arise.
- Right to Appeal: If your citizenship application is rejected, you have the right to file an administrative lawsuit within 60 days from the date of notification of the rejection.
Step 6: Post-Citizenship Considerations – What Happens Next?
Upon successful acquisition of Turkish citizenship, you will be issued a Turkish ID card and passport. Your new status as a Turkish citizen comes with all the rights and responsibilities associated with it.
Children’s Citizenship: Children born of a marriage where one parent is a Turkish citizen are generally Turkish citizens from birth. If the foreign spouse acquires Turkish citizenship, their minor children may also apply for citizenship under certain conditions.
Retention of Citizenship upon Divorce: A significant aspect of Turkish nationality law regarding citizenship by marriage is that if the marriage is subsequently dissolved (e.g., through divorce), the naturalized spouse may retain their Turkish citizenship, provided that both partners had entered into the marriage in good faith. However, this is assessed on a case-by-case basis. For detailed information on divorce proceedings in Turkey for foreigners, our article on “Turkish Divorce Law for Foreigners” offers comprehensive insights.
Step 7: Seeking Professional Legal Guidance – The Akkas & Associates Advantage
Navigating the intricacies of Turkish citizenship law can be challenging, especially for foreign nationals. The process involves understanding specific legal terminology, adhering to strict documentation requirements, and potentially facing complex interviews. This is where the expertise of a seasoned legal team becomes invaluable.
At Akkas & Associates Law Firm, our experienced English-speaking lawyers in Istanbul specialize in Turkish immigration and citizenship law. Since 1992, we have guided countless individuals through successful citizenship applications, offering:
- Personalized Consultation: We provide tailored advice based on your unique circumstances, ensuring you understand every step of the process.
- Document Preparation and Review: We assist in compiling, translating, and authenticating all necessary documents, minimizing the risk of errors or omissions.
- Application Submission and Follow-up: We handle the submission of your application and meticulously follow up with the relevant authorities to track its progress.
- Interview Preparation: We prepare you thoroughly for potential interviews, ensuring you are confident and well-equipped to address any questions.
- Strategic Legal Counsel: In case of any complications or rejections, we provide robust legal representation and strategize the most effective course of action, including administrative lawsuits.
- Comprehensive Family Law Expertise: Our deep understanding of Turkish family law, as detailed in our guide on “Turkish Family Law: A Comprehensive Overview”, allows us to provide holistic support throughout your marital and citizenship journey.
Our commitment to excellence and client-centric approach ensures that your journey to Turkish citizenship is as smooth and efficient as possible.
Contact us for Turkish Citizenship by Marriage
Acquiring Turkish citizenship by marriage is a significant life step that offers the opportunity to fully integrate into Turkish society, enjoy its rich culture, and benefit from all the rights and privileges of a Turkish national. While the process demands diligence and attention to detail, with the right preparation and expert legal guidance, it is an achievable goal.
At Akkas & Associates Law Firm, our team of dedicated Turkish citizenship lawyers is committed to providing reliable and professional services to individuals seeking Turkish citizenship through marriage. With our in-depth understanding of Turkish immigration laws, we strive to ensure a smooth and efficient application process for our clients. Contact us today to embark on your journey to Turkish citizenship through marriage.
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