Investment Options for Turkish Citizenship by Investment

Introduction

If you are considering acquiring Turkish citizenship via investment, understanding the official investment options is critical. This guide (MFY Legal) provides clarity on all approved routes, so you can make an informed decision based on your circumstances. Forsaking uncertain practices, we rely on official, up-to-date regulations. Note that eligibility and outcomes are case dependent.

For related information, see:

• Turkish Citizenship by Investment — introducing the overall programme.
• Who Can Apply: Turkish Citizenship Investment — criteria and eligibility.
• Turkish Citizenship Application Process — the procedural steps.

Official Investment Options / Paths

According to Turkey’s investment citizenship law (Law No. 5901, as amended), foreign nationals may acquire Turkish citizenship if they fulfil one of several investment criteria. (invest.gov.tr) Here are the main options:

How Do These Options Compare / Which One is Most Popular?

• The real estate purchase route is often chosen because it has a slightly lower threshold (USD 400,000) compared to many other options. Many investors prefer property both for the pass to citizenship and for potential value appreciation.
• Options involving USD 500,000 (bank deposits, funds, fixed capital) carry higher amounts and stricter holding requirements; these may suit those more focused on financial instruments rather than property.
• The job creation option requires setting up or greatly expanding a business, hiring at least 50 employees, which may involve more operational risk and administrative compliance.

Key Conditions & Requirements Across All Options

Regardless of which investment path you select, the following apply:

• The investment must be retained / held for at least three years from the date of fulfilment.
• The investment must be made by using legally obtained funds; due diligence will be conducted.
• The transaction needs to be attested by the relevant government body (e.g. Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Treasury, etc.).
• The applicant (and dependents) must satisfy eligibility criteria (clear criminal record, legal status, etc.). For those, see Who Can Apply: Turkish Citizenship Investment.

Advantages & Risks of Each Option

Example Scenarios

• Investor A, preferring minimal involvement, might choose real estate: buy property worth USD 400,000, restrict resale for three years, satisfy the property registration, then apply.
• Investor B, with business experience, might set up a business hiring 50 people (job creation route): higher complexity but possibly more engagement and returns.
• Investor C, more financially oriented, may deposit USD 500,000 or put it in a government-approved fund, avoiding property administration entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I combine multiple investments to qualify?

No. You must meet one of the investment options in full. Partial amounts from different options do not combine to fulfil a single requirement (e.g. combining real estate purchase + bank deposit does not reduce the USD 400,000 or USD 500,000 threshold).

Do I need to live in Turkey after the investment?

No. Citizenship by investment does not require physical residence for a specific minimum duration, but you must satisfy the investment retention period (at least three years) for whichever option you choose.

What happens if I sell the property before three years?

If you sell or otherwise dispose of the property (or withdraw / liquidate other investments) before the three-year minimum holding period, this may disqualify you from citizenship under the investment route.

Are the investment amounts in US dollars binding?

The thresholds are determined in US dollars (or equivalent foreign currency or Turkish Lira), but the transaction will be verified by Turkish authorities at the time of the investment. Currency fluctuations may be relevant.

How MFY Legal Can Help

MFY Legal specialises in advising on Turkish Citizenship by Investment. We can assist you with:

• Choosing the most suitable investment option in your personal case (see Turkish Citizenship by Investment).
• Preparing required documentation (see also Turkish Citizenship Required Documents).
• Navigating due diligence, government attestations, ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Submitting the citizenship application and guiding you through the process end-to-end (see Application Process).

Conclusion & Call to Action

Choosing the correct investment path for Turkish citizenship is a crucial decision. Each option has different costs, commitments, and risks what is best depends entirely on your goals, risk tolerance, and financial / operational capacity.

If you’re ready to evaluate your personal case or want tailored advice, contact MFY Legal | Law Firm. Let us help you map out the route that aligns with your circumstances, prepare all documentation correctly, and ensure the process moves smoothly.