Citizenship in Turkey

Turkey is an important country with its geographical location, historical and cultural richness. Located at the crossroads of both Asia and Europe, Turkey has a strategic position as one of the key countries of the Middle East and Europe. Ankara is the capital of the country, while major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir and Antalya are important economic and cultural centers. With its rich historical heritage, Turkey has been home to many civilizations and bears the traces of various cultural interactions. In addition, Turkey is a tourism paradise with spectacular natural beauty, unique beaches, historical monuments and delicious cuisine. Turkey, where modern lifestyle and traditional values coexist, is an important player in the world with its dynamic economy, developing industry and strategic location.

Citizenship in Turkey refers to the legal belonging of individuals to a nation and comes with citizenship rightds and responsibilities. Turkey’s citizenship policy includes having the right to citizenship and setting out the procedures for obtaining it. By birth, marriage, investment, or other means, citizenship in Turkey can be acquired. Individuals born in Turkey or the child of a Turkish citizen parent are granted citizenship by birth. Citizenship by marriage is granted when a foreign citizen marries a Turkish citizen and fulfills certain conditions.

Citizenship by investment can be obtained by investing a certain amount or acquiring a certain amount of property in Turkey. The process of citizenship in Turkey includes steps such as the collection of documents, the evaluation of the application and, if deemed appropriate, the swearing-in ceremony. Turkey’s citizenship policy aims to strengthen the country’s demographic structure, promote economic development and preserve national identity. Therefore, citizenship in Turkey is an important issue for both individuals and the state and is followed by set procedures.

How to Get Turkey Citizenship

There are certain requirements and procedures for those who wish to apply for Turkish citizenship. In order to apply for citizenship in Turkey, the following conditions must be met:

  • To live in Turkey legally: People who are legally residing in Turkey can apply for citizenship. The most common way to live in Turkey legally is to have documents such as a residence permit or work permit.
  • Living in Turkey for a certain period of time: Having lived in Turkey for a certain period of time (five years) without interruption is required to apply for citizenship in Turkey. This period may vary depending on different situations.
  • Knowledge of the Turkish language and culture: Citizenship applicants must have a basic command of the Turkish language and knowledge of Turkish culture. This requirement is assessed through language and culture exams.
  • Passing criminal record and security checks: Citizenship in Turkey applicants must have a clean criminal record and pass security checks in Turkey. These checks are carried out to determine whether the applicant has committed any crimes in the past and whether they pose a threat to public order.
  • Financial and income requirements: In some cases, citizenship in Turkey applicants may be required to document their financial situation and provide a certain level of income. This can be based on factors such as property ownership, employment or investment.

Persons wishing to apply for citizenship in Turkey can apply to the relevant immigration office if they meet these conditions. The application process may vary depending on the individual’s situation and the type of application. Once the application process is completed, if the applicant is granted citizenship, they will have the rights and responsibilities as a Turkish citizen.

In addition to all these, Turkey’s amendment to the regulation dated September 19, 2018 significantly changed the conditions for foreign investors to acquire Turkish citizenship. According to this amendment, foreigners who purchase real estate in Turkey with a value of $400,000 or equivalent can apply for citizenship in Turkey themselves and their families, including their spouses and children. Previously, this amount was set at 1 million dollars. 

This change makes real estate investment in Turkey more accessible to foreigners and makes the transition to Turkish citizenship more attractive. This amendment, which aims to contribute to Turkey’s economic development and revitalize the real estate sector, offers new opportunities for foreign investors. In this context, it is important to take into account the other requirements for the transition to citizenship in Turkey and all procedures that must be followed during the application process must be fulfilled.

Benefits of Obtaining Turkish Citizenship

Turkey is a fascinating country with its natural and cultural riches. The country has both Mediterranean and Black Sea coasts with its unique geographical location. With its turquoise seas, golden beaches and mystical mountains, Turkey is a paradise for nature lovers. It is also rich in historical and cultural heritage. The unique skyline of Istanbul, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the white travertines of Pamukkale, the magnificent ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus and many other historical and natural beauties reveal Turkey’s uniqueness. 

In addition, Turkish cuisine is known worldwide and delights the palate with its flavours. This diversity and beauty make Turkey an indispensable destination for travellers and adventurers. The beauties of Turkey are not only natural and historical, but also the warmth and tolerance of its people. Turkey, where various ethnic groups live together, also attracts attention with its cultural diversity.

With the economic reforms and infrastructure investments made in recent years, the country has a remarkable economic performance in the international arena. Politically, Turkey is democratic and governed by the rule of law and respect for human rights. The country pursues an active foreign policy in international relations. Having citizenship in Turkey has many benefits. These benefits cover a wide range of social, economic and legal aspects. Here are some important benefits of acquiring citizenship in Turkey:

  • Ease of travel: Turkish citizens can travel to many countries outside Turkey without a visa or easily obtain a visa. Turkish passports are also subject to fewer restrictions at the borders of many countries.
  • Social rights: Turkish citizens are entitled to social and health services in Turkey. They can also benefit from public services and education opportunities.
  • Work and employment opportunities: Turkish citizens are free to work and find a job in Turkey. They can also be employed as civil servants or employees in public institutions and businesses in Turkey.
  • Citizenship rights and responsibilities: Turkish citizens have the right to fly Turkey’s national flag, sing the country’s national anthem and enjoy other citizenship rights. Turkish citizens also fulfill their responsibilities for the welfare and security of the country.
  • Property rights: Turkish citizens can acquire, purchase and transfer property in Turkey. They can also inherit real estate in Turkey.
  • Right to vote and be elected: This provides an opportunity to participate in democratic processes and to have influence in local governments.
  • Legal guarantees: Turkish citizens have the right to enjoy legal protections in Turkey and the principle of equal treatment in court proceedings.

These benefits represent significant advantages of acquiring citizenship in Turkey and can help individuals shape their lives for the better. 

How to Apply for Turkish Citizenship

There are certain procedures and requirements for individuals. The application process is governed by Turkish citizenship law and related legal regulations. Here are the steps to apply for Turkish citizenship:

  • How and where to apply: To apply for citizenship in Turkey, candidates apply to the civil registry offices in Turkey or Turkish consulates abroad. For Turkish citizens living abroad, the application process can be carried out through consulates.
  • Application requirements: In order to apply for citizenship in Turkey, candidates must meet certain conditions. These may include having a Turkish citizen parent, residing or investing. In addition, applicants must also meet certain legal, social and economic criteria in Turkey.
  • Required documents: People who wish to apply for citizenship in Turkey must collect the necessary documents. These documents may include a birth certificate, passport, identity document, residence permit, marriage certificate, Turkish language proficiency certificate, income certificate, etc.
  • Application process: A citizenship in Turkey application can be made by completing the required documents and meeting the application requirements. The application process includes reviewing the documents, inviting the applicant for an interview, conducting the interview and evaluating the application.
  • Evaluation and conclusion: If a positive decision is made as a result of the evaluation of the application, the applicant is granted citizenship in Turkey. This may involve steps such as an oath-taking ceremony or the delivery of the citizenship certificate.

The process of applying for citizenship in Turkey can be complex and may take several months to finalize the application. Therefore, it is important to understand the requirements properly before submitting an application. Furthermore, following the steps in the application process carefully can ensure a successful outcome of the application.

Dual Citizenship in Turkey

Dual citizenship in Turkey, i.e. the situation where a person is a citizen of more than one country, is possible subject to certain conditions. Turkish citizenship law regulates dual citizenship and the rights and responsibilities of individuals in this situation are determined by specific legal regulations. Turkey is a country that recognizes dual citizenship in Turkey and allows Turkish citizens living abroad to acquire the citizenship of another country. In this case, one can become a citizen of another country without losing Turkish citizenship. Similarly, people living abroad who wish to apply for Turkish citizenship can retain the citizenship of their home country.

Dual citizenship in Turkey can provide many advantages. For example, having the right to live and work in different countries, freedom of movement, and access to education and health services can result from dual citizenship. In addition, as citizens of both countries, dual citizens can have the right to vote in both countries. However, there are some issues to be considered in the case of dual citizenship in Turkey. For example, it may be necessary to comply with the tax laws and military service obligations of both countries.

People who wish to apply for dual citizenship in Turkey must fulfill certain procedures and requirements. This dual citizenship in turkey process is carried out according to the Turkish citizenship law and related regulations. During the application process, it is important to complete the necessary documents and act in accordance with the legal procedures. It may also be useful to contact the relevant authorities for more detailed information on the dual citizenship in turkey application process and dual citizenship status.

Does Turkey allow dual citizenship? 

Turkey is a country that allows dual citizenship. Despite Turkey allowing dual citizenship status, there are four countries that have dual citizenship agreements specifically with Turkey: Germany, Bulgaria, Albania and the UK. These dual citizenship in turkey agreements aim to protect the rights of citizens and simplify procedures by making the dual citizenship process easier and more streamlined. Therefore, people living in Turkey and considering dual citizenship in turkey can guide their application process by taking into account the agreements with these countries.

Turkey is a remarkable country with its rich history, cultural diversity, natural beauties and dynamic economy. With the economic reforms and infrastructure investments made in recent years, Turkey displays a strong economic performance in the international arena. Moreover, with its democratic structure and commitment to the rule of law, it prioritizes respect for human rights and justice. Turkey is expected to continue to be an effective actor in both the regional and global arena.

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