Why Legal Due Diligence is Crucial for Turkish Citizenship by Investment

Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program remains one of the most popular migration routes globally, offering a fast track to a powerful passport through a $400,000 real estate purchase. However, for international investors, the process is not merely a transaction; it is a complex legal procedure filled with potential pitfalls.

The Hidden Risks in Property

Acquisition Many investors assume that buying any property worth $400,000 automatically guarantees citizenship. This is a dangerous misconception. The property must meet specific criteria: the appraisal report (valuation) must match the sales price, the title deed must be free of encumbrances (such as mortgages or legal disputes), and the “Certificate of Conformity” must be obtained from the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization. Without a competent Turkish citizenship lawyer, investors risk purchasing properties that are ineligible for citizenship, leaving them with an asset they didn't fully want and no passport to show for it.

Navigating the Bureaucracy

From obtaining the “Döviz Alım Belgesi” (Foreign Exchange Purchase Certificate) to filing the final application with the Civil Registry, every step requires precision. A single error in the transliteration of a name or a missing apostille can delay the process by months. Working with a law firm that specializes in immigration law ensures that your investment yields the desired result: a Turkish passport for you and your family.