Types of Turkish Residence Permits

Choosing the Right Category (Including the $200,000 Property Rule for Families and Citizenship Pathways)

If you’re planning to stay in Turkey long-term—especially through real estate purchase—it’s essential to understand the various types of residence permits and the latest investment-based residency rules. With recent regulatory updates, both residency and citizenship through property investment have become clearly defined legal pathways for foreign nationals.

1. Short-Term (Property-Based) Residence Permit – Now Requires $200,000 Minimum Investment

For foreign nationals seeking to reside in Turkey through property ownership, a property-based residence permit is a commonly chosen route.

✅ New Rule (Effective October 16, 2023):

• The minimum property value required is now USD $200,000.
• This applies across all regions in Turkey — removing previous thresholds of $75,000 (metropolitan) and $50,000 (smaller cities).
• The property must be residential, livable, and individually titled (not shared time-share or commercial).
• The full value must be transferred via a Turkish bank and reflected in the title deed (Tapu).

👪 For Families:

• Spouses and children under 18 can be included in the residence application.
• Joint ownership of the property is required if both spouses want to apply.
• In some cases, dependent children up to age 25 (e.g., university students) may also be eligible, though this is case-dependent and evolving.

⚠️ Important:

• Applications from “closed neighborhoods” with high concentrations of foreigners are currently being rejected, so it’s vital to consult your real estate advisor before purchasing.

2. Pathway to Turkish Citizenship – $400,000 Investment Threshold

If your property investment exceeds a certain threshold, you may be eligible not just for a residence permit, but for Turkish citizenship by investment.

🇹🇷 Key Requirements:

• Invest at least USD $400,000 in residential or commercial real estate.
• Hold the property for a minimum of 3 years (cannot be sold or transferred during this time).
• The investment can be in one or multiple properties, as long as the total value meets the threshold.
• The property must be newly registered, and funds must be sent via a Turkish bank.

3. Family Residence Permit

Available for individuals wishing to join family members who are either Turkish citizens or legal residents.

• Granted for up to two years.
• Renewable while family ties continue.
• Requires proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificates) and adequate accommodation and income.

4. Student Residence Permit

Designed for foreign students enrolled in Turkish educational institutions.

• Valid for the duration of the academic year.
• Renewable annually.
• Allows limited work rights under certain conditions after the first year.

6. Humanitarian Residence Permit

A temporary solution for individuals under exceptional circumstances such as:

• War or persecution in the home country.
• Victims of domestic abuse or human trafficking.
• Urgent medical needs unavailable in their country.

Each case is evaluated individually.

🏡 What Does This Mean for Real Estate Buyers in Turkey?

In 2025, Turkey offers clear, structured pathways for both residency and citizenship through real estate investment:

This legal clarity makes Turkey a highly attractive option for investors seeking not only a new home or vacation property but also secure legal status in one of the region’s most dynamic countries.

🧭 Conclusion: Make the Right Move with Expert Guidance

Choosing the right Turkish residence permit—or even pursuing citizenship—depends on your goals, family situation, and investment capacity. With the $200,000 threshold for residency and the $400,000 route to citizenship, Turkey offers flexibility and clear legal avenues for foreigners.

At Gate Realty, we go beyond helping you find the perfect property — we guide you through every legal, procedural, and investment aspect, including:

• Eligibility checks
• Property valuation and documentation
• Residency and citizenship application support
• Legal representation through certified immigration lawyers

💬 Ready to explore your options?

Contact us today to start your property journey in Turkey with confidence — and secure your future with legal residency or citizenship for you and your family.