Monetary Investment Routes to Obtain Turkish Citizenship

Monetary Investment Routes to Obtain Turkish Citizenship

1. Introduction

Beyond property purchase, Türkiye offers several other investment routes for foreign nationals seeking Turkish citizenship. These options include fixed capital investment, creating employment opportunities, bank deposits, government bonds, and investments in real estate or venture capital funds. This article provides a comprehensive overview of these investment-based routes for acquiring Turkish citizenship, detailing the requirements, procedures, and considerations for each.

2. Related Regulations

The foundation for citizenship by investment in Türkiye is established under:

• Law No. 5901 on Turkish Citizenship

• Regulation on the Implementation of the Turkish Citizenship Law (Turkish Citizenship Regulation)

• Presidential Decree No. 106 (September 19, 2018)

• Presidential Decree No. 418 (December 7, 2018)

These regulations lay out various investment options and revised minimum investment amounts that foreign nationals can make to acquire Turkish citizenship.

3. Investment Options for Turkish Citizenship

3.1. Fixed Capital Investment

Criteria: Invest a minimum of 500,000 USD in fixed capital and obtain confirmation from the Ministry of Industry and Technology.

3.2. Creating Employment Opportunities

Criteria: Create employment for at least 50 Turkish nationals and obtain confirmation from the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Services.

3.3. Bank Deposits

Criteria: Deposit a minimum of 500,000 USD in a bank operating in Türkiye for at least three years, confirmed by the BRSA.

3.4. Government Bonds or Treasury Bills

Criteria: Purchase government bonds or treasury bills worth at least 500,000 USD, held for at least three years, confirmed by the Ministry of Treasury and Finance.

3.5. Real Estate Investment Fund (REIF) or Venture Capital Investment Fund (VCIF)

Criteria: Invest at least 500,000 USD in a REIF or VCIF, held for at least three years, confirmed by the Capital Markets Board of Türkiye (SPK).

4. General Steps for Citizenship by Investment

1. Making the Investment: Choose an investment route and complete all required legal and administrative steps.

2. Obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility: Apply to the relevant authority to obtain the Certificate of Eligibility.

3. Applying for a Short-Term Residence Permit: Apply under Article 31/1(j) of Law No. 6458.

4. Applying for Turkish Citizenship: Apply to the General Directorate of Civil Registration and Citizenship Affairs.

7. Benefits of Obtaining Turkish Citizenship by Investment

• Visa-Free Travel: Turkish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries globally.

• Dual Citizenship: Türkiye recognizes dual citizenship, so investors can retain their original citizenship.

• Educational and Healthcare Benefits: Citizens have access to free healthcare and education in Türkiye.

• Simplified Process for Family Members: Spouses and children under 18 also qualify for citizenship once the primary investor's application is approved.

• Strategic Geographic Location and Vibrant Economy: Türkiye's strategic location and growing economy offer abundant opportunities for trade, investment, and business growth.

8. Conclusion

Foreign nationals have multiple options to obtain Turkish citizenship by investment. To ensure a smooth and legally compliant process, contact our team of qualified legal professionals at Yılmaz Attorneys.