Corporate LawImmigration LawReal Estate LawTurkish Citizenship by InvesmentResidence Permit in Turkey Through Purchase of Real Estate Worth 200,000 USD (2026 Legal Guide)

Residence Permit in Turkey Through Purchase of Real Estate Worth 200,000 USD (2026 Legal Guide)

How to obtain a 2-year residence permit in Turkey by purchasing property worth at least 200,000 USD? Learn about eligibility requirements, spouse and children’s rights, and the possibility of Turkish citizenship after 5 years of legal residence.

What Is a Residence Permit Based on Property Ownership?

Foreign nationals who purchase residential property in Turkey may apply for a Short-Term Residence Permit under Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection.

As of October 16, 2023, a new monetary threshold has been introduced. In 2026, the minimum required value of the property is 200,000 USD, and this requirement applies uniformly across Turkey.

Applications are submitted before the Directorate General of Migration Management.

Current Legal Requirements in 2026

To obtain a residence permit through real estate ownership:

• The property must be registered as residential (housing/condominium).
• The sales price stated in the title deed must be at least 200,000 USD (or equivalent in Turkish Lira).
• Payment must be completed through official banking channels.
• The applicant must register their residential address at the purchased property.

Important: Commercial properties (shops, offices, etc.) do not qualify under this category.

Duration of the Residence Permit: 2 Years

A residence permit based on property ownership is:

• Typically granted for 2 years,
• Renewable as long as ownership continues,
• Subject to timely renewal applications.

This type of residence permit does not automatically grant citizenship.

Can the Spouse and Children Obtain Residence Permits?

Yes.

If:

• The property is jointly purchased with the spouse, or
• The main applicant includes family members in the application,

The spouse and children under 18 years of age may also obtain residence permits based on the same property.

In this case:

• Separate residence cards are issued for each family member.
• The duration is generally aligned with the main applicant (2 years).
• Children over 18 are not automatically covered under this category.

Eligibility for Turkish Citizenship After 5 Years

Foreign nationals who reside in Turkey continuously for 5 years under a valid residence permit may become eligible to apply for Turkish citizenship through the general naturalization process.

Applications are submitted to the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs.

Important distinctions:

• This is not the exceptional citizenship-by-investment program (which requires 400,000 USD).
• It is a general naturalization route.
• Continuous legal residence for 5 years is required.
• Applicants must not pose a threat to public order or national security.
• Basic Turkish language knowledge and intention to settle in Turkey may be assessed.

Citizenship is subject to administrative discretion and is not automatic.

Practical Considerations

• The title deed value must meet the 200,000 USD threshold.
• The property must clearly be classified as residential.
• Long absences from Turkey may interrupt the 5-year continuous residence requirement.
• Applications and renewals must be filed within legal deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I obtain a residence permit if my property is worth less than 200,000 USD?

No. As of 2026, the minimum required value is 200,000 USD.

Is the residence permit automatically granted for 2 years?

In practice, initial approvals are generally issued for 2 years, subject to administrative review.

Can my spouse and minor children apply together with me?

Yes. Spouse and children under 18 may obtain residence permits based on the same property.

Is citizenship guaranteed after 5 years?

No. After 5 years of uninterrupted legal residence, you may apply, but approval depends on legal and administrative evaluation.

Legal Assistance

Property-based residence permit applications require careful legal assessment, including compliance with title deed value requirements, family eligibility planning, and long-term residence strategy for citizenship purposes.

Our law firm provides comprehensive legal support in property acquisition, residence permit applications, renewals, and citizenship planning.

For professional legal consultation, please contact our office.