The Turkey Golden Visa is a popular term used to describe the citizenship by investment program offered by the Turkish government. This program allows foreign nationals to acquire Turkish citizenship by making a significant investment in the country’s economy. If you are interested in obtaining citizenship through investment, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information on the Turkey Golden Visa program, including its benefits, requirements, and application process.
I. Benefits of the Turkey Golden Visa Program
- Fast and straightforward process: One of the main advantages of the Turkey Golden Visa program is its efficiency. The application process is relatively quick, taking about 3-6 months from submission to approval.
- Visa-free travel: Turkish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 110 countries, including Japan, South Korea, and the Schengen Zone countries in Europe.
- No language or cultural tests: Unlike many other citizenship by investment programs, Turkey does not require applicants to pass any language or cultural tests.
- Dual citizenship: Turkey allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your original citizenship while enjoying the benefits of being a Turkish citizen.
- Stable economy: Turkey has a growing and diversified economy, making it an attractive destination for investors.
- Access to healthcare and education: Turkish citizens have access to a modern healthcare system and an extensive network of public and private educational institutions.
II. Investment Options
To qualify for the Turkey Golden Visa program, applicants must choose from one of the following investment options:
- Real estate investment: Purchase a property worth a minimum of $500,000 and commit to holding the investment for at least three years. The property can be residential, commercial, or a combination of both.
- Capital investment: Invest at least $500,000 in fixed capital investments, such as government bonds, shares of Turkish companies, or venture capital funds.
- Employment generation: Create at least 50 jobs in Turkey for Turkish citizens.
- Bank deposit: Deposit at least $500,000 in a Turkish bank and maintain the deposit for a minimum of three years.
III. Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum investment: Applicants must meet the minimum investment requirement for one of the investment options mentioned above.
- Clean criminal record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record in their home country and any other country where they have resided for more than six months.
- Good health: Applicants must be in good health and not pose a threat to public health or safety.
- Age requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- No entry ban: Applicants must not be banned from entering Turkey or pose a threat to national security.
IV. Application Process for the Turkey Golden Visa
- Choose an investment option: Determine which investment option best suits your financial goals and risk tolerance.
- Prepare documents: Gather all required documents, including a valid passport, proof of investment, criminal record certificate and health certificate. Ensure that all documents are translated into Turkish and notarized, if necessary.
- Submit the application: Submit your application, along with the required documents and fees, to the Turkish Consulate or Embassy in your home country.
- Evaluation of the application: The relevant Turkish authorities will evaluate your application and conduct a background check. This process usually takes 3-6 months.
- Receive approval: Once your application is approved, you will receive a Certificate of Naturalization, which confirms your Turkish citizenship.
- Apply for a Turkish passport: With your Certificate of Naturalization, you can apply for a Turkish passport at the nearest Turkish Consulate or Embassy.
You can search qualifying Turkey Golden Visa properties here.