Immigration LawReal Estate LawResidence PermitTurkish Citizenship by InvesmentTURKISH CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT USD 500,000 BANK DEPOSIT ROUTE (2026 UPDATED GUIDE)

TURKISH CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT

USD 500,000 BANK DEPOSIT ROUTE (2026 UPDATED GUIDE)

 

Turkish Citizenship by Bank Deposit 2026 | USD 500,000 Requirement

 

Updated 2026 guide to obtaining Turkish citizenship via USD 500,000 bank deposit. TL conversion requirement, 3-year blocking, interest income, residence permit, biometric procedures, and 6–9 month approval timeline explained.

1. Overview

Foreign investors may acquire Turkish citizenship by depositing USD 500,000 (or equivalent) into a Turkish bank and blocking the amount for three years.

This option is ideal for investors who prefer a financial instrument rather than real estate acquisition.

2. Mandatory Conversion into Turkish Lira

A critical compliance requirement:

📌 The USD 500,000 must be converted into Turkish Lira (TRY) through a Turkish bank.

The process includes:

1. Transfer of foreign currency to Turkey
2. Conversion into TRY
3. Blocking the TRY amount for 3 years

Early withdrawal may jeopardize citizenship eligibility.

3. Earning Interest During the 3-Year Period

The funds are not idle.

Investors may:

• Benefit from current TRY time-deposit interest rates,
• Earn interest or profit share during the blocked period.

TRY interest rates are often higher than foreign currency deposit rates, allowing investors to potentially generate additional returns.

After 3 Years

Upon completion of the blocking period:

• The investor may withdraw the funds,
• Convert TRY back into USD or another foreign currency,
• Transfer funds abroad or reinvest in Turkey.

4. Timeline

• Residence permit: ~1 week
• Citizenship approval: 6–9 months

5. Physical Presence & Biometrics

The investor and spouse must be physically present in Turkey during:

• Residence permit application (fingerprints & biometrics)
• Citizenship application submission

No continuous stay in Turkey is required afterward.

6. Conclusion

The USD 500,000 bank deposit route combines:

• Citizenship acquisition
• Capital preservation
• Potential interest income
• No real estate management burden

With proper legal structuring, the process is predictable and secure.