Patricia Casaburi Turkey Citizenship by Investment is a citizenship program that enables UK citizens to apply for Turkish citizenship once they have met the investment criteria, through real estate, starting a business, and financial investment into the country.
Turkey Citizenship by Investment for UK citizens is quickly becoming one of the most popular second passport options among UK citizens, and for good reason. As one of the top holiday destinations in the world, offering fantastic investment opportunities, and a
gateway to various business markets in Europe and Asia, Turkey has truly put itself on the map as a top investment destination.
In this guide you will learn about:
What Turkish Citizenship by Investment Is
Turkey Citizenship by Investment is a program that allows UK citizens to obtain Turkish citizenship by making a qualifying financial investment in Turkey. The program is one of the most accessible and cost-effective routes to a second passport, offering British investors visa-free travel, business opportunities, and a strategic location between Europe and Asia.
Established in 2017, the program was implemented by the Turkish government to attract foreign direct investment into the country, with growing success since the program launched.
Read our Turkey Citizenship by Investment Guide
7 Reasons Why UK Citizens Are Choosing Turkey for Citizenship by Investment
There are a range of benefits of Turkish citizenship for UK citizens, let’s take a closer look:
- Affordable investment threshold: UK citizens can obtain Turkish citizenship with a minimum real estate investment of $400,000, making it a cost-effective alternative to many European residency and citizenship programs.
- Fast-track citizenship process: British investors can secure citizenship in approximately 3–6 months, making it one of the quickest routes to a second passport.
- No residency requirements: There is no obligation to live in Turkey before or after obtaining citizenship, making it ideal for UK citizens seeking flexibility.
- Gateway to global mobility: A Turkish passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 120 countries, providing fantastic travel opportunities for British investors.
- Strategic location for business: Situated between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Turkey provides UK investors with excellent opportunities to expand into new markets.
- Family inclusion: Foreign investors can include their spouse and dependent children in their application, securing citizenship for the whole family.
- Attractive lifestyle and property market: Turkey boasts a Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and booming real estate market, offering UK citizens an ideal destination for a second home or investment property.
Investment Options for Turkey Citizenship by Investment
Investing in Turkey for citizenship has a range of options to choose from, including:
Pathway | Price in US Dollars | Price in British Pounds |
Real estate | $400,000 | £308,346.95 |
Bank deposit | $500,000 | £385,433.69 |
Government bonds | $500,000 | £385,433.69 |
Investment fund share | $500,000 | £385,433.69 |
Capital investment | $500,000 | £385,433.69 |
Job creation | Create 50 full time jobs | |
Real estate investments are the most popular option for UK citizens as Turkey is one of the top places to obtain a holiday home. The average flight takes only four hours from the UK, with sun and sea waiting for those with families and retirees looking to explore all Turkey has to offer.
Additionally, many UK citizens rent out their property, with the Turkish tourism market increasing dramatically year on year. In fact, in 2023, Turkey was the 5th most visited country in the world.
Where to Buy Property in Turkey as a UK Citizen
- Istanbul: Istanbul is the cultural and economic hub of Turkey, offering UK citizens a fantastic opportunity for business investment. Additionally, as the country’s capital, it is the ideal location for holiday rentals with new developments and high growth potential.
- Antalya: Antalya is a tourist hotspot in Turkey, offering a Mediterranean paradise with a warm climate, low cost of living, and stunning beaches. It is perfect for holiday homes, rental properties, and those looking to retire.
- Bodrum: Bodrum offers a vibrant expat community with a luxury lifestyle and upscale developments. It is well known for its stunning seaside real estate, villas, and boutique hotels.
- Fethiye: If you want to enjoy seaside living at a fraction of the cost, Fethiye offers affordable real estate, making it an ideal option for retirees and holiday homes.
Document Requirements for UK Citizens to Get Turkish Citizenship by Investment
Here are the general document requirements for UK citizens to apply for Turkey Citizenship by Investment:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Biometric passport photos (colored)
- Proof of residence, such as a recent utility bill
- Turkish Tax Identification Number
- Criminal record clearance
- Valid health insurance in Turkey
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Divorce decree or spouse’s death certificate (if applicable)
There are some additional documents for property investments, including:
- Land Registry Certificate confirming full ownership of the property or properties
- Valid private purchase contract from the developer
- Valuation report approved by the Capital Market Board
Steps for UK Citizens to Get Turkish Citizenship
Here are the steps for UK citizens to obtain Turkish citizenship:
- Step 1: Select an investment option.
- Step 2: Perform preliminary due diligence.
- Step 3: Open a Turkish bank account (Optional).
- Step 4: Complete the investment.
- Step 5: Obtain a certificate of conformity.
- Step 6: Prepare and submit the required application documents.
- Step 7: Secure a residence permit.
- Step 8: Apply for citizenship.
- Step 9: Receive citizenship.
- Step 10: Maintain the investment for at least three years.
Where to Apply for Turkish Citizenship in the UK
UK citizens can submit certain documents and enquire about citizenship at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate, with offices available in London.
However, the full citizenship application is required to be submitted in Turkey, with the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs, meaning UK citizens would need to travel to Turkey for a few days. This is due to the new citizenship requirements, whereby main applicants and their spouses are required to apply in person to provide fingerprints and photographs.
Processing Time
Obtaining Turkish citizenship as a UK citizen takes between 3-6 months, making it one of the quickest citizenship by investment programs.
Tax Implications for UK Citizens with Turkish Citizenship
UK citizens applying for citizenship in Turkey are in luck, with the two countries having a double taxation agreement. This ensures you are only taxed once on the same income.
Additionally, UK citizens don’t necessarily become Turkish tax residents even if they obtain Turkish citizenship. UK citizens would need to spend 183 days per year in Turkey to be considered a tax resident and begin paying taxes.
However, it’s important that UK citizens understand the Turkish tax system and what they may potentially be liable for. Speaking with a tax expert is highly recommended before applying for citizenship in another country.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Citizenship by Investment for UK Citizens
Can UK citizens get Turkish citizenship by buying property?
Yes, as a UK citizen, you can obtain Turkish citizenship by investing at least $400,000 in Turkish real estate. The property must be retained for a minimum of three years before being sold. This remains the most popular route for securing Turkish citizenship through investment.
What are the requirements for UK citizens to apply for Turkey Citizenship by Investment?
Key requirements include being over 18, having no criminal record, and holding valid health insurance. Applicants must also submit essential documents, including proof of residence, evidence of investment, or a purchase contract.
What are the benefits of Turkish citizenship for UK citizens?
- Affordable investment threshold
- Fast-track citizenship process
- No residency requirements
- Gateway to global mobility
- Strategic location for business
- Family inclusion
- Attractive lifestyle and property market
How long does it take for a UK citizen to get Turkish citizenship by investment?
Applying for citizenship as a UK citizen in Turkey takes approximately 3-6 months.
Can UK citizens retain their British passport after obtaining Turkish citizenship?
Yes, UK citizens can keep their British passports after acquiring Turkish citizenship, as the UK permits dual citizenship.
What types of investments qualify for Turkey's Citizenship by Investment program?
- Real estate
- Bank deposit
- Government bonds
- Investment fund share
- Capital investment
- Job creation
Do UK citizens need to reside in Turkey to maintain their citizenship?
No, UK citizens are not required to live in Turkey to keep their British citizenship; they can reside abroad indefinitely while retaining their UK nationality.
What are the tax implications for UK citizens with Turkish citizenship?
UK citizens with Turkish citizenship are only taxed in Turkey on their Turkish-sourced income, unless they become tax residents. Tax residency applies if they spend more than 183 days per year in Turkey.
Can UK citizens include their family members in the Turkey Citizenship by Investment program?
Yes, UK citizens can include their spouse and dependent children under 18 in their Turkey Citizenship by Investment application.
Can UK citizens sell their investment property after obtaining Turkish citizenship?
Yes, UK citizens can sell their investment property after obtaining Turkish citizenship, but they must retain ownership for at least three years to maintain their citizenship status.
