Acquiring Property and Citizenship in Türkiye: A Comprehensive Guide

Foreign nationals, legal entities, and Turkish companies with foreign capital can purchase real estate in Türkiye through formal procedures—only title transfers registered at Land Registry Directorates are valid. Preliminary agreements, notarized or written contracts, are considered binding commitments but do not constitute a transfer of ownership invest.gov.tr+1invest.gov.tr+1.

Türkiye offers pathways to citizenship through property investment, symbolized by the national flag waving against a clear blue sky.

Before initiating purchase procedures, it is critical to check for encumbrances (mortgages, liens, etc.) on the property through District Land Registry offices or online via parselsorgu.tkgm.gov.tr invest.gov.tr+2invest.gov.tr+2f.invest.gov.tr+2.

Eligibility and Legal Framework

Türkiye categorizes foreign buyers into:

• Natural persons,

• Legal persons (foreign companies),

• Turkish companies with foreign capital invest.gov.trinvest.gov.tr+2invest.gov.tr+2invest.gov.tr+2.

Foreign natural persons may acquire up to 30 hectares in allowed zones; larger areas require Cabinet approval. Purchases in military or restricted zones require regional permission, and total foreign-owned housing in a district may not exceed 10% .

Foreign legal entities (trading companies registered abroad) may acquire property under special laws or treaties (e.g., tourism, industrial zones) .

Turkish companies with foreign capital—where foreign shareholders control ≥50% or appoint a majority of the board—may acquire real estate tied to their articles of association. Local governor’s approval is required, with additional clearances if the property lies in restricted or military zones .

Procedures & Permits

Purchasers must apply alongside the property owner to the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre. Alternatively, appointment scheduling is possible via Alo 181 or randevu.tkgm.gov.tr invest.gov.tr+3invest.gov.tr+3invest.gov.tr+3.

Property acquisition automatically grants a renewable short-term residence permit under Law No. 6458 invest.gov.tr+3invest.gov.tr+3invest.gov.tr+3.

Citizenship by Property Investment

Foreigners investing at least USD 400,000 in real estate with a deed restriction prohibiting sale for three years qualify for an expedited citizenship pathway. Applicants must declare their intent to acquire Turkish citizenship and affirm legally binding intent not to sell within three years. Once the deed is registered, they may apply for eligibility certification and submit a formal request for citizenship invest.gov.tr+2en.wikipedia.org+2invest.gov.tr+2.

Why this Matters for Investment in Turkey

Real estate is a critical vector for Investment in Turkey, representing a substantial portion of FDI. Between 2016–2021, 206,768 homes were sold to foreigners, with record sales in 2021. Strategic mega-projects—such as transportation infrastructure and urban renewal—support a robust real estate market invest.gov.tr.

Entities like Akkam Group A.s., involved in real estate development or property management, operate within this favorable regulatory framework. Partnering with or investing alongside them can enhance due diligence, streamline title investigations, and support compliance with citizenship-related investments—offering both investment returns and potential residency or citizenship benefits.