If you're considering purchasing property in Turkey or looking for unique real estate investment opportunities, this complete guide from DeCorner Homes is your ideal destination.

This FAQ page provides detailed answers to the most common questions regarding foreign property ownership, conditions for obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment, living costs in Turkey, and much more in the Turkish real estate sector.

Whether you're interested in investment or relocating to Turkey, you'll find everything you need here to make well-informed decisions confidently, based on real experiences.

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FAQs About Life in Turkey

Turkey is a country known for its cultural and geographical diversity, making it a popular destination for living and settling down. In this first section of the FAQ page, we provide thorough answers to common questions you may have about daily life in Turkey, including safety, cost of living, and the best cities and areas to reside in.

 

Is Turkey a safe country?

Most cities, towns, and neighborhoods in Turkey are safe throughout the day. However, caution is advised in certain tourist areas, especially late at night.

 

Is Turkey considered a European country?

Turkey is a Middle Eastern country strategically located at the heart of the world. Only 3% of its territory lies in Southeast Europe, with the majority located in Asia. There are ongoing discussions about its potential accession to the European Union.

 

What are the conditions for living in Turkey?

To reside in Turkey, you need a residence permit, such as a student residency, tourist residency, real estate residency, long-term residency, or humanitarian residency.

You can find more details about types of residence permits in Turkey in this article.

 

What are the downsides of living in Turkey?

Turkey is a beautiful place to live, especially with its moderate climate and strategic location, but like any other country, it may pose challenges for some individuals, such as:

• Difficulty learning Turkish for some, though the language structure is not complex and includes thousands of words of Arabic, Persian, French, and English origin.
• Traffic congestion during peak hours in major cities.
• Cultural challenges in certain unstable neighborhoods or those with economic and social difficulties.

 

How much money is needed monthly to live in Turkey?

Costs vary depending on lifestyle and family size.

• A university student living alone in a major city like Istanbul would need around $600–$800 monthly to cover housing and living expenses.
• A family of four would require at least $2,000 per month for a comfortable lifestyle, according to the Turkish Labor Union Research Center in July 2024.

 

What is the best city to live in Turkey?

Istanbul tops the list due to its prime location, cultural diversity, international and Arabic schools, top-ranked universities, advanced hospitals, and medical cities.

DeCorner Homes offers excellent options and real estate opportunities to buy residential properties in Turkey tailored to your budget and preferences.

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FAQs About Foreign Property Ownership in Turkey

Property ownership in Turkey has gained increasing interest among foreign investors due to the advantages it offers, such as Turkish citizenship and lucrative investment returns. Below, you will find detailed answers regarding ownership requirements and the process of purchasing property for foreigners, with specific considerations for each nationality.

 

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Turkey?

Yes, foreigners can purchase property in Turkey, provided they comply with the regulations related to the buyer's nationality and property type.

What Are the Conditions for Foreign Property Ownership in Turkey?

The conditions for foreigners include:

• A foreign individual cannot own more than 30 hectares of property across all Turkish provinces.
• Foreigners cannot exceed ownership of more than 10% of the area within a single municipality.
• Security clearance is required before purchase, especially for areas near military installations.
• These conditions are mostly theoretical and easily achievable for most foreign investors in Turkey.
• Security clearance is typically obtained by the project developer for the first foreign buyer, turning into a routine procedure for subsequent buyers.
• Certain restrictions apply to some property types, such as specific land plots, coastal areas, and border zones for some nationalities.

 

How to Buy an Apartment in Turkey?

The process is straightforward if you receive advice tailored to your requirements:

1. Choose the location based on your needs.
2. Define your purchase goal (investment, residency, or citizenship).
3. Study the market with a reliable real estate advisor.
4. Select properties that match your budget and objectives.
5. Visit and inspect properties on-site.
6. Compare prices and negotiate the best deal.
7. Reserve the apartment by paying a small deposit.
8. Prepare documents and finalize the ownership transfer at the Land Registry Office with a lawyer or trustworthy real estate consultant fluent in your language.
9. Receive the title deed in your name.
10. For citizenship purposes, ensure all conditions of the new Turkish citizenship law are met before purchasing.

Can Foreigners Inherit Property in Turkey?

Yes, foreigners can freely pass down properties to their heirs without restrictions.

 

Why Invest in Turkish Real Estate?

Benefits include:

• Eligibility for real estate residency or Turkish citizenship.
• Attractive return on investment.
• Advanced infrastructure and strategic location.
• Free or low-cost healthcare and education for residents and citizens.
• Government-backed guarantees and incentives for foreign investors.

 

Are There Nationalities That Cannot Own Property in Turkey?

Restricted nationalities include:

1. Syria
2. Armenia
3. Cuba
4. North Korea

Additionally, there are limitations for some nationalities like Russians and Greeks in certain coastal or border areas.

Yes, American citizens are allowed to purchase property in Turkey under Turkish laws.

Yes, Palestinians can own property regardless of the type of travel document they hold, such as a Palestinian Authority passport or Egyptian travel document. However, those holding Syrian travel documents are treated like Syrian citizens.

 

Can Syrians Own Property in Turkey?

Syrian citizens cannot directly own property in Turkey in their name. However, they can easily establish a Turkish company within Turkey and register properties under the company's name.

 

Why Can’t Syrians Own Property in Turkey?

This restriction stems from historical political measures related to bilateral relations and the principle of reciprocity. However, it is expected that these laws may be amended in the future.

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FAQs About Turkish Citizenship Through Investment

Obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment has become a popular option for investors looking to benefit from its advantages. In this section, we explain the requirements and procedures for acquiring citizenship through real estate ownership or other investments in Turkey.

 

What Are the Requirements for Turkish Citizenship by Real Estate Investment?

1. Purchase property or multiple properties with a total value exceeding $400,000 USD.
2. Commit to retaining the property for at least 3 years. The property can be used for residence, business, or rental during this period.
3. The purchase must be made exclusively through bank transfers.
4. The property must be a first sale, i.e., being sold for the first time for the purpose of applying for Turkish citizenship.
5. The property must be purchased from a Turkish individual or entity, such as Turkish construction companies, not someone who recently acquired Turkish citizenship.
6. The property can be residential, commercial, ready for use, or under construction, as long as it has an issued title deed (general or servitude deed).
7. Multiple properties within the same project can be combined under one notary contract to apply for citizenship.
8. Multiple properties from different projects can also be combined, provided each has a separate title deed.

 

How Much is Needed to Obtain Turkish Citizenship?

• More than $400,000 USD for real estate investment.

• $500,000 USD for deposits in Turkish banks or investments in Turkish investment funds.

   

Can Citizenship Be Obtained Through Agricultural Land Purchases?

No, purchasing agricultural or undeveloped land does not qualify for citizenship applications.

 

Which properties are not eligible for Turkish citizenship?

• Properties valued below $400,000 USD.
• Properties with falsified or inaccurate valuation reports.
• Properties lacking title deeds or building permits.
• Properties with shared ownership deeds.
• Properties with liens or mortgages.
• Properties sold in installments where the paid amount hasn’t exceeded $400,000 USD.
• Properties owned by a foreigner in the last 3 years.
• Properties owned by someone who obtained Turkish citizenship through investment.
• Properties owned by a company where one of the shareholders obtained citizenship through investment.
• Properties owned by the buyer’s first-degree relatives.

FAQs About the Turkish Citizenship Application Process

 

When Are Citizenship Applications Based on Real Estate Purchases Rejected?

• Failure to meet financial or legal conditions.
• Incomplete or forged documents.
• Purchasing two properties with separate notary contracts (only one notary contract is allowed).
• Combining properties purchased under both a notary contract and a title deed.
• Delays or incomplete currency conversion payments.
• Invalid or expired property valuation reports.
• Activities threatening national security.

 

When Can Turkish Citizenship Be Revoked?

Citizenship is not revoked arbitrarily, as applications are rigorously verified before approval. However, revocation may occur in cases such as:

• Selling the property before 3 years have passed.
• Evidence that the property was previously owned by a foreigner or someone recently naturalized.
• Discovery of fraud, inaccuracies, or violations in submitted documents or reports.
• Threatening national security after obtaining Turkish citizenship.

 

Does Turkish Law Allow Dual Citizenship?

Yes, but applicants should check their home country's laws to avoid losing their original citizenship.

 

How Long Does the Citizenship Process Take?

The process typically takes about 90 days but may be extended in certain cases.

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FAQs About Turkish Citizenship

Turkish citizenship offers you remarkable rights and opportunities, from living with dignity and security to access to work, free education, and health insurance. In this section, explore key aspects of Turkish citizenship and your rights as a Turkish citizen.

 

How Can You Prove Turkish Descent?

Turkish ancestry can be verified through Ottoman origin documents using historical records like birth certificates or family trees, with the help of an expert lawyer.

 

How to Become a Turkish Citizen?

You can apply for Turkish citizenship under the following conditions:

• Purchase property worth over $400,000 USD and retain it for 3 years.
• Reside in Turkey for 5 years with a work permit.
• Deposit $500,000 USD in Turkish banks or employ 50 Turkish workers.

 

What Are the Rights of a Turkish Citizen?

1. Freedom to live anywhere in Turkey.
2. Protection and security by the state.
3. Access to healthcare and medication in government hospitals.
4. Free education.
5. Retirement benefits at age 60, subject to labor laws.
6. Eligibility to vote and run for office in elections.

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FAQs About the Turkish Passport

The Turkish passport offers significant global mobility and multiple benefits. Here, we explain its strength, visa-free countries, and how to obtain it as a valuable second passport.

 

Is the Turkish Passport Strong?

Yes, it allows entry to 127 countries without a visa, via e-visas, or visas on arrival. It also simplifies visa applications for major countries and facilitates living and working opportunities under special international agreements.

 

How Strong is the Turkish Passport?

1. Ranked 37^th globally as of July 2024 (Passport Index).
2. Visa-free access to 69 countries, 51 with visas on arrival, and 7 with e-visas.
3. A mobility score of 127, covering over 64% of the world.
4. Simplified Schengen visa applications for the EU.
5. Eligibility for U.S. visas.
6. Validity up to 10 years, with easy renewal.
7. Biometric passport for fast border processing.
8. Dual nationality-friendly.
9. Business advantages with Turkic Council member states.

 

How to Obtain the Turkish Passport?

You can obtain it by:

• Purchasing property worth over $400,000 USD and holding it for 3 years.
• Depositing $500,000 USD in a Turkish bank for 3 years.
• Investing $500,000 USD in funds for 3 years.
• Employing 50 Turkish citizens.

 

How Long Does It Take to Issue the Turkish Passport?

Issuing the passport takes 2 to 30 days.

 

How to Apply for the Turkish Passport?

• Submit your application via the Turkish civil registry website or by calling 199.
• Pay the passport issuance fee at the nearest post office.
• Visit your local civil registry office on the scheduled date with the required documents.

 

What is the cost of a Turkish passport in 2024?

Here is a table showing the fees for issuing a Turkish passport for Turkish citizens in 2024, with prices listed in Turkish Lira (TL):

Passport Duration	Fee (TL)	Book Printing Fee (TL)	Total Amount (TL)
6 months	1,639.30	790.00	2,429.30
1 year	2,396.60	790.00	3,186.60
2 years	3,912.60	790.00	4,702.60
3 years	5,558.30	790.00	6,348.30
More than 3 years	7,833.00	790.00	8,623.00

 

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FAQs About Visas for Turkish Citizens

Turkish passport holders enjoy different visa requirements depending on the destination. In this section, we explain the countries that Turks can enter without a visa and how to obtain visas for other countries like Europe and the United States.

 

Does the Turkish Passport Grant Entry to Europe?

Yes, it allows visa-free access to several European countries, with streamlined Schengen visa procedures.

 

Can Turkish Citizens Travel to Germany?

No, they require a pre-approved Schengen visa.

 

Does the Turkish Passport Allow Entry to the UK?

No, Turkish citizens need to apply for a visa to enter the United Kingdom.

 

Can Turkish Citizens Enter the U.S.?

No, but Turkish citizens enjoy facilitation for visa applications for tourism or work purposes.

 

Does the Turkish Passport Allow Entry to Russia?

Yes, via an e-visa for 15 days.

 

Can Turkish Citizens Enter Qatar?

Yes, without a visa.

 

Can Turkish Citizens Enter Dubai?

Yes, with a quick e-visa typically issued within 24 hours.

 

Can Turkish Citizens Enter Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Turkish passport holders can enter Saudi Arabia by obtaining an electronic visa in advance or a visa on arrival.

 

Which Countries Allow Turkish Citizens to Enter Without a Visa?

Turkish passport holders can enter 69 countries without a visa:

Albania, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Burundi, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Fiji, Gambia, Georgia, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Iran, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Macau, Malaysia, Mauritania, Micronesia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nicaragua, North Macedonia, Palestine, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Serbia, Singapore, South Africa, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Syria, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Ukraine, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela.

 

Additionally, Turkish passport holders can enter 51 countries with a visa on arrival

Armenia, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cuba, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Indonesia, Kuwait, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Palau, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Taiwan, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

 

Moreover, Turkish passport holders can enter 7 countries with an immediate electronic visa

Ivory Coast (Côte d'Ivoire), Kenya, Mexico, Pakistan, Seychelles, South Korea, Sri Lanka.

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In Conclusion

At DeCorner Homes, we are here to support you every step of the way in achieving your dream of investing or living in Turkey.

If you don't find the answer to your inquiry here in the FAQ section about real estate in Turkey, don't hesitate to contact us.

Our specialized team is ready to provide a free and personalized consultation to meet your exact needs and ensure an easy and secure property purchase experience. Start your investment journey now, and we'll be with you every step of the way!