Turkish Citizenship 2026: Deposit Risks and Real Estate Alternative
Investing USD 500,000 to obtain Turkish citizenship may initially seem like a safe and conservative decision. A bank deposit is associated with stability, government oversight, and minimal risk. That is exactly why this option is often considered by investors seeking a “calm” path to a Turkish passport.
However, in practice, the deposit scheme has important nuances that not everyone is aware of. And it is precisely these details that can significantly affect the final financial outcome.
How the Citizenship Deposit Works in Turkey
According to the instruction of the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey dated February 21, 2022, a deposit of USD 500,000 must be converted into Turkish lira on the day it is placed.
This means that in reality, the funds are not held in dollars but in Turkey’s national currency. For an investor, this is a key point directly related to currency risk.
Why Currency Risks Have Become Especially Important
Previously, part of the risk was offset by the mechanism of exchange-rate-protected deposits. However, as of July 23, 2025, operations under these deposit schemes were discontinued.
In practice, this means:
- ❌ The state no longer compensates for exchange rate fluctuations;
- ❌ Any losses from the weakening of the lira fall entirely on the investor;
- ❌ The real return on the deposit becomes unpredictable.
It is important to understand: the state bears no responsibility for currency losses, even if the deposit was opened solely for the purpose of obtaining citizenship.
This is why, before choosing the deposit option, it is essential to realistically assess all financial risks and consider alternative paths.
An Alternative to a Deposit: Real Estate Investment
In 2026, more and more foreign investors are choosing a clearer and more balanced route — Turkish citizenship through real estate investment.
The minimum investment amount is USD 400,000.
Why RestProperty Recommends This Option
Based on RestProperty’s experience, real estate investments offer several key advantages:
- ✅ A tangible asset: The property remains yours and may increase in value.
- ✅ Income: The property can be rented out, generating income during ownership.
- ✅ Liquidity: After 3 years, the property can be sold without losing citizenship.
Unlike a deposit, the investor receives not just a formal basis for a passport, but a liquid asset that remains in ownership. The investment program remains the fastest and most predictable route. The processing period usually takes from 4 to 6 months.
🔑 Citizenship via Real Estate: Key Conditions
- 🔸 Purchase a property worth at least USD 400,000;
- 🔸 Pay for the purchase via bank transfer through a Turkish bank;
- 🔸 Obtain an official valuation from a licensed expert;
- 🔸 Not sell the property for 3 years.
The transaction follows a standard legal procedure with additional government oversight.
Real Client Cases by RestProperty
Over the years, the RestProperty team has guided hundreds of clients on their path to Turkish citizenship. Among them:
- An investor from the UAE who obtained citizenship in 4 months after purchasing apartments in Alanya for USD 420,000;
- A family from Russia who secured citizenship through a property purchase of USD 410,000;
- Clients from Europe who combined obtaining a passport with rental income.
Why People Choose RestProperty
We offer over 20 years of experience, our own projects in Antalya and Alanya, and full legal support strictly within the framework of the law.
Looking for a truly reliable option without currency risks? The RestProperty team is ready to review your case and offer the optimal solution.
