A Turkish passport offers more than just access to one country. For high-net-worth individuals, it provides global mobility, security, and a gateway to new business opportunities. Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program has made acquiring a Turkish passport simpler, attracting investors worldwide.
Vladlena Baranova, Lawyer, AML Compliance officer at Immigrant Invest, certified CAMS specialist, explores the key benefits of obtaining a Turkey citizenship and how it enhances international freedom.
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Turkey Passport Overview
The Turkish passport, first issued in 1950, has gone through several updates in terms of design and security features. Today, it stands as a biometric passport, incorporating modern technology for safe travel.
Over the years, Turkey has formed agreements with various countries, increasing the number of nations Turkish citizens can enter without a visa or by obtaining one upon arrival.
7 advantages of Turkish Passport
1. Visa-free travel. Passport ranking includes more than 120 countries Turkey citizens can visit visa-free or visa-on-arrival, including popular business and tourist destinations such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.
2. Dual citizenship. Turkey allows dual citizenship, meaning you can retain your original nationality while benefiting from Turkish citizenship. This is particularly useful for individuals with business interests in multiple regions.
3. E-2 business visa eligibility in the US. Turkey is a treaty country with the United States, making its citizens eligible for the E-2 Investor Visa. This visa enables businesspeople to live and work in the US after making a substantial investment in an American enterprise.
4. Business opportunities in Turkey. Turkey is a strategic hub between Europe and Asia. With a Turkish passport, you gain easier access to both markets, facilitating trade and investment opportunities in multiple regions.
5. Affordable second citizenship option. Compared to European investment programs, the Turkish passport is more affordable while still offering a high level of global mobility and business advantages.
6. Security and stability. Turkey is a stable country with a strong military presence. Obtaining Turkish citizenship provides access to healthcare, education, and legal protections in a country that is both secure and economically vibrant.
7. No mandatory residency. The Turkish Citizenship by Investment program does not require applicants to reside in Turkey. This means you can live anywhere in the world while holding a Turkish passport.
Turkey Passport Types
The ordinary passport is available for Turkish citizens and new citizens through the CBI program. There are also special passports for government employees, diplomatic passports for foreign service members, and service passports for individuals on official government missions.
For most foreign investors, the ordinary passport is the relevant document, granting them access to all the associated benefits.
How to Obtain Turkey Citizenship by Investment
Investment options make Turkish citizenship accessible. The most popular way to obtain a Turkish passport is through the Citizenship by Investment program. Investors have several options, including:
- Real estate purchase. You must invest a minimum of $400,000 in Turkish property, which can be residential or commercial.
- Capital investment. A minimum of $500,000 must be invested in Turkish businesses, government bonds, or venture capital.
Once the investment is completed and the necessary documents are submitted, citizenship is usually granted within 8 months.
Other Ways to Obtain Turkey Citizenship
Citizenship by descent or naturalisation. Aside from investment, Turkish citizenship can be obtained through ancestry, marriage, or long-term residency. Individuals with Turkish parents automatically qualify for citizenship, while those married to a Turkish citizen can apply after three years of marriage.
Long-term residents who have lived in Turkey for five consecutive years are also eligible to apply for citizenship.
Retaining original citizenship. One of the key benefits of Turkish citizenship is that it allows individuals to maintain their original citizenship. This is crucial for investors and businesspeople who operate across multiple countries and need the legal and travel flexibility that comes with holding more than one passport.
Conclusion
A Turkish passport benefits include global mobility, dual citizenship, and business-friendly tax advantages. For high-net-worth individuals, it is a valuable asset that offers access to new markets, security, and flexibility in travel. Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program provides a streamlined path to obtaining this passport without the need for long-term residency.
