Türkiye

Residency and citizenship routes in Türkiye

Every route to residence and citizenship in Türkiye in one table: main requirement, length and path to citizenship.

1 min read Updated

Contents
  1. Residence routes
  2. Citizenship routes
  3. General steps
  4. Frequently asked questions

Türkiye has several types of residence: short-term (including property and tourist), family, student, work and long-term; and citizenship comes through three main routes: investment ($400,000 in property), 5 years' residence and marriage to a Turkish citizen.

Residence routes

PermitMain requirementLength
Short-term, propertyResidential property of at least $200,000Up to 2 years, renewable
Short-term, touristAddress, funds and insurance; first permits are often refused nowadaysUp to 2 years
FamilyA spouse or parent with Turkish residence or citizenshipUp to 3 years
StudentUniversity enrolmentLength of studies
WorkA work permit from the employerLength of the permit
Long-term8 years' continuous residenceIndefinite

Citizenship routes

RouteRequirement
Investment$400,000 property (held 3 years) or $500,000 in deposits, bonds, funds or fixed capital
Residence5 years' continuous residence, basic Turkish and an interview
Marriage3 years of marriage to a Turkish citizen

General steps

  1. Choose the route and check documents (passport, funds, insurance, address)
  2. Get a tax number and, where possible, a bank account
  3. Apply on e-ikamet and attend the provincial migration office appointment
  4. Register your address within 20 working days of the permit being issued

Frequently asked questions

What is the simplest route to residence in Türkiye for Iranians?

Property residence with a residential property of at least $200,000 is the most reliable route; first-time tourist residence is often refused nowadays.

How many years for Turkish citizenship by residence?

5 years' continuous residence (no more than 180 days a year abroad), plus basic Turkish and an interview.

Does Turkish residence lead to citizenship?

Yes, with 5 years of continuous legal residence; but not every type of permit counts equally, and long absences break the period. Plan the route with a lawyer from the start.

Position as of October 2026; Turkish migration office practice can change without official notice.

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