Obtaining dual citizenship in Turkey is a significant concern for foreign residents, not only for the privileges of citizenship but also to understand the rights, responsibilities, and legal details of dual citizenship. This article provides essential information on dual citizenship in Turkey, including its concept, legal framework, and the rights and obligations it entails.

What is Dual Citizenship in Turkey?

Dual citizenship refers to an individual holding more than one nationality in addition to Turkish citizenship. This means that a person can enjoy all the benefits of the nationalities they hold, such as Turkish and their native citizenship, without any conflict between them. They can claim their legitimate rights from both nationalities and must fulfill their duties to both or all the countries of their citizenship.

However, not all countries allow their citizens to obtain multiple nationalities. Some permit it under certain conditions, while others may make it more straightforward. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the legal details of dual citizenship in Turkey, especially for those interested in acquiring it.

Dual Citizenship Law in Turkey

In Turkey, dual citizenship is a right for Turkish citizens. Foreigners can also obtain Turkish citizenship while retaining their original nationality, provided they meet specific requirements and procedures.

Who is a Turkish Citizen?

A Turkish citizen is anyone with a "citizenship" link to Turkey, whether their native country is Turkey or they acquired Turkish nationality later through one of the available methods for obtaining dual citizenship. Any child under 18 born to a Turkish parent (father or mother) is considered a Turkish citizen, regardless of whether the parent holds only Turkish nationality or multiple nationalities.

Methods to Obtain Dual Citizenship in Turkey

There are several ways to obtain Turkish citizenship, including:

1. Turkish Citizenship through Residency

This can be achieved in the following scenarios:

• Long-term residency for 8 consecutive years in Turkey.
• Work residency in Turkey for 5 consecutive years.
• Family residency in Turkey for 3 consecutive years.

2. Turkish Citizenship through Investment

This includes the following methods:

• Property purchase in Turkey worth $400,000.
• Bank deposit in a Turkish bank of $500,000.
• Employing 50 Turkish citizens.

3. Exceptional Turkish Citizenship

Granted by the decision of the President or the Council of Ministers of Turkey, this can include specific foreign individuals with notable contributions in various fields such as science, art, sports, and more.

Conditions for Obtaining Dual Citizenship

For a foreign resident in Turkey to apply for Turkish citizenship, they must meet several conditions:

• Intend to stay in Turkey and provide proof of this intent.
• Be free of diseases that may threaten public health.
• Have a clean criminal record and not have committed any crimes.
• Not pose a threat to national security in Turkey.

There are other conditions, but these may be more flexible for foreign investors, as will be discussed in a later section.

Does Meeting the Conditions Guarantee Citizenship?

No. Despite meeting all the conditions, an application for dual citizenship in Turkey might still be rejected for various reasons, such as:

• Lack of genuine intention to settle in Turkey.
• Failure to pass the security clearance.
• Use of forged or illegal documents during the application process.

Some foreigners with multiple nationalities might be required to renounce one of their nationalities to acquire Turkish citizenship.

Dual Citizenship in Turkey for Foreign Investors

Many foreign investors in Turkey, particularly from the Middle East, aim to obtain Turkish citizenship. Here are some reasons why foreign investors might seek Turkish dual citizenship:

• Global Economic and Commercial Position: Turkey is part of the G20.
• Economic Vision 2023: Investors are eager to benefit from Turkey's anticipated economic boom.
• Economic Diversity: Turkey offers broad opportunities for vertical and horizontal expansion in investments.
• Stability: Political, social, and economic stability in Turkey attracts long-term investments.
• Cultural Affinity: Similar social and cultural values between Arabs and Turks facilitate the adaptation of Arab investors.
• Customs and Travel Ease: Turkish citizens enjoy customs facilities and easier travel to Europe, and there is hope for Turkey's future EU membership.

Facilitations for Foreign Investors to Obtain Turkish Citizenship

The Turkish government has introduced several facilitative measures for foreign investors, including:

• Reduced Investment Thresholds: The minimum investment for citizenship has been significantly lowered, e.g., from $1 million to $250,000 for property purchase.
• Installment Purchases: Citizenship can be obtained even if the property is bought in installments, as long as $250,000 has been paid.
• Short Ban Duration: The restriction period for selling the property or withdrawing the deposit is relatively short, only 3 years.
• Streamlined Procedures: The government has established regional offices to handle citizenship applications, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
• Legal Representation: Simplified procedures for appointing a lawyer to manage the citizenship application.
• Family Inclusion: Investors can include their spouses and children under 18 in their application.

Obtaining Another Citizenship Alongside Turkish Citizenship

Turkey does not prohibit its citizens from acquiring dual citizenship. However, citizens must notify the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate and provide the necessary documents, which may sometimes require a visit. It’s important to note that although Turkey allows dual citizenship, some foreign countries may require individuals to renounce their Turkish citizenship to obtain their nationality.

Conclusion

This article has provided essential information on dual citizenship in Turkey, including its concept, legal framework, eligibility criteria, and specific considerations for foreign investors. We hope this comprehensive guide helps those interested in acquiring Turkish citizenship as a second nationality. For further inquiries or details, do not hesitate to contact Skyline Real Estate.