Turkish Citizenship 2026: Requirements, Steps & Benefits
Turkish citizenship is one of the most sought-after statuses among foreigners in 2025–2026. A Turkish passport grants the right to permanent residence in a country with a stable economy, access to healthcare and education, visa-free travel to dozens of countries, and the possibility to retain a second citizenship.
This material provides a complete and up-to-date guide that answers all the key questions at once:
- how to obtain Turkish citizenship in 2026;
- which documents are required for application;
- whether dual citizenship is possible;
- whether children can obtain Turkish citizenship;
- whether giving birth in Turkey grants citizenship;
- Turkish citizenship through property purchase;
- how residence permits and five-year residence work;
- whether Turkish language is required;
- which names and surnames can be chosen;
- timelines, risks, and common applicant mistakes.
What Turkish Citizenship Provides
Turkish citizenship provides a foreigner with:
- permanent right to reside in Turkey;
- a Turkish passport;
- the right to work without additional permits;
- access to public healthcare and education;
- the ability to start a business without restrictions;
- the right to own and inherit property without limits;
- dual citizenship, as Turkey does not require renouncing the first citizenship;
- the possibility of obtaining citizenship for children.
It is the combination of flexibility, legality, and strategic benefit that makes the Turkish passport so popular.
Ways to Obtain Turkish Citizenship
In 2026, there are several legal grounds for obtaining Turkish citizenship.
1. Turkish Citizenship through 5-Year Residence (Naturalization)
This is the general procedure provided by Turkish law.
Suitable for foreigners who:
- legally reside in Turkey with a residence permit or work permit;
- actually live in the country, not just formally registered;
- have income, family, work, or a business;
- are integrated into society.
Main conditions: continuous residence in Turkey for 5 years; permissible absence — no more than 12 months in total; official income or profession; basic Turkish language proficiency; no criminal record and no threats to national security.
❗ Important: merely having a residence permit does not guarantee citizenship. The commission evaluates the applicant's entire life strategy.
Read more about residence rules and timelines in the article:
Turkish Citizenship through 5-Year Residence in 2026
2. Turkish Citizenship through Property Purchase (Investment)
One of the most popular queries: «Turkish citizenship through property purchase».
The 2026 investment program includes:
- property purchase from 400,000 USD;
- obligation not to sell the property for 3 years;
- registration of TAPU and investment report;
- submission of citizenship application immediately.
Advantages: no need to wait 5 years; Turkish language is not required; spouse and children under 18 also receive citizenship; dual citizenship is allowed.
See current properties for investment citizenship here:
Turkish Citizenship through Property Purchase
3. Turkish Citizenship through Marriage
A foreigner can apply for citizenship if:
- they have been legally married to a Turkish citizen for at least 3 years;
- they can prove a genuine family relationship;
- they live together with the spouse.
Fake marriages are thoroughly checked and often result in refusals.
4. Turkish Citizenship for a Child
If at least one parent is a Turkish citizen, the child automatically receives citizenship, regardless of birthplace.
Common question: «If born in Turkey, does the child get citizenship?»
❌ No. Turkey does not provide citizenship by birthright on its territory.
If both parents are foreigners: the child does not automatically get citizenship; a residence permit is issued; citizenship is possible later — through parents or investment grounds.
Dual Citizenship in Turkey
Turkey allows dual and multiple citizenships. This means:
- no need to renounce Russian, Ukrainian, Kazakh, or other passports;
- you can have two or more citizenships;
- duties are determined by country of residence and tax residency.
Residence Permit (RV) and Citizenship
A residence permit is a path to citizenship but not a guarantee.
Main types of residence permits: property-based; family; work; humanitarian (rarely leads to citizenship).
For naturalization, only legal and continuous residence periods are counted.
Turkish Language: Is It Required for Citizenship
- for investment citizenship — not required;
- for citizenship through residence — mandatory;
- level — conversational;
- verified during interview or via certificate.
Turkish Passport: Advantages
A Turkish passport provides:
- visa-free or simplified entry to over 110 countries;
- extensive consular support;
- high international status;
- freedom to live and run a business in Turkey.
Names and Surnames When Obtaining Turkish Citizenship
- names and surnames are not automatically changed;
- transliteration adaptation is allowed;
- application for name change is possible;
- children are allowed to choose Turkish names.
Documents Required for Turkish Citizenship
Query: «Turkish citizenship documents»
Basic package: application; passport; residence permit or work permit; birth certificate; marriage or divorce documents; criminal record certificate; medical report; proof of income; biometric photos; payment receipts.
All documents: apostilled; translated by a sworn translator; notarized in Turkey.
Timelines and Risks
Processing Timelines:
- via investment — 6–12 months;
- via residence — 1–3 years;
- via marriage — 1–2 years.
Common Reasons for Refusal:
- formal residence without integration;
- fake income;
- errors in counting absences;
- incorrect type of residence permit;
- security issues;
- incomplete or incorrect document package.
Conclusion: Is It Worth Getting Turkish Citizenship
Turkish citizenship is a real and legal strategic status if you plan to live or invest; want a second passport without renouncing the first; think about your children's future; value mobility and security.
However, the path to citizenship requires a smart strategy, not spontaneous decisions.
About RestProperty
RestProperty is an international real estate and expat support agency operating since 2003. The company specializes in the Turkish market and helps foreign clients build a legal and long-term strategy for residence, investment, and obtaining status in the country.
RestProperty’s expertise covers key areas related to relocation and legalization:
- selection of real estate in Turkey considering residence permit, citizenship, and investment goals;
- consultations on types of residence permits, naturalization, and investment citizenship;
- support for real estate purchase and sale transactions;
- interaction with lawyers, appraisers, and government authorities;
- assistance to clients not only in Turkey but also in the UAE, Thailand, and Northern Cyprus.
Over more than 20 years, RestProperty specialists have helped thousands of foreign families and investors safely acquire real estate and adapt to life in another country, minimizing legal and migration risks.
Materials on the RestProperty website are for informational and analytical purposes, based on current legislation and practical experience with foreigners. The company does not guarantee obtaining citizenship or residence permit, as final decisions are made exclusively by government authorities, but it helps clients build a correct and transparent strategy.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Turkish Citizenship
Can you get Turkish citizenship without residence?
Yes, through the investment program starting from 400,000 USD.
Does giving birth in Turkey grant citizenship?
No, birthplace alone is not a basis.
Is dual citizenship allowed in Turkey?
Yes, Turkey officially allows it.
Is knowledge of Turkish required?
Only for naturalization through residence.
Can citizenship be obtained through a residence permit?
Yes, if the residence permit is legal and residence is continuous.
Do children receive citizenship along with their parents?
Yes, with investment citizenship and in certain cases through naturalization.
