Turkey golden visa / investment residence explained

What Is Turkey's Golden Visa Program?

Turkey's Golden Visa is an investment-based residence program designed to attract foreign capital. It allows non-Turkish citizens to obtain residence permits by making significant financial investments in the country. Some investment levels may eventually lead to Turkish citizenship, though the specific requirements and timelines vary based on your investment choice.

The program targets wealthy individuals, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking to establish a long-term presence in Turkey or secure a second residence in a country bridging Europe and Asia.

Main Investment Options

Turkey typically accepts several types of investments:

• Real estate purchases – Buying residential or commercial property above a minimum threshold
• Business investment – Starting or investing in a Turkish company and creating jobs
• Bank deposits – Placing funds in Turkish banks for a specified period
• Government bonds – Investing in Turkish bonds or securities
• Capital investment – Direct investment in business ventures

Each option has different financial requirements and conditions. The minimum investment amounts change periodically, so verify current thresholds on Turkey's official immigration authority website.

Residence Permit vs. Citizenship

Golden Visa investors first receive a residence permit, which allows you to live, work, and study in Turkey. This is not automatic citizenship.

For residence permits: You maintain your original nationality while gaining the right to reside in Turkey long-term. You can renew your permit as long as you meet ongoing conditions.

For citizenship: Some investors may qualify for Turkish citizenship after meeting their investment commitments and fulfilling other legal requirements. This timeline is not immediate and depends on the investment type and your specific circumstances.

Who Should Apply?

This program suits:

• High-net-worth individuals seeking a European/Asian base
• Business owners wanting to expand into Turkish markets
• People looking for visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to many countries
• Families wanting affordable luxury real estate in a strategic location

Next Steps

To explore Turkey's Golden Visa:

1. Research current investment minimums and eligible sectors on Turkey's official immigration website

2. Consult with a local immigration lawyer or licensed visa agent

3. Prepare financial documentation proving your investment capacity

4. Apply through official channels once you've selected your investment type

Processing timelines and renewal conditions vary. Some programs offer fast-track processing for qualifying investments.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.