Özgür Kurucuk
Jan 92 min
Updated: Jan 17
In recent times, significant changes have reshaped the landscape of Turkish citizenship and residence permit applications, bringing forth a new set of rules and procedures for prospective investors. These amendments, effective as of 2024, have ushered in a more rigorous yet streamlined process.
The journey towards Turkish citizenship now involves a carefully orchestrated sequence of steps, primarily focusing on residence permit applications and mandatory in-person appearances for both investors and their spouses.
One of the groundbreaking changes introduced in February 2023 is the obligatory requirement for investors to provide fingerprints at the Fatih Immigration Office in Turkey. This biometric data is now an integral part of the process, adding an extra layer of security to the citizenship and residence permit applications.
In 2024, a significant shift occurred with the introduction of mandatory in-person appointments for both residence permit and citizenship applications. This change signifies a commitment to a more hands-on approach, as investors and their spouses are now required to be physically present during the application processes.
Under the revamped procedures, applicants must provide a criminal record from their home country or the country where they legally reside. This requirement, not present in previous residence applications, aims to conduct preliminary checks on individuals seeking to make Turkey their home and eventually become Turkish citizens.
Outlined below are key procedural amendments applicable from 2024:
Investors and their spouses must be physically present in Turkey for both residence permit and citizenship applications. Additionally, they are required to provide fingerprints as part of the application process.
For citizens of countries under the apostille agreement, the criminal record must be apostilled, with its Turkish translation notarized. Citizens of non-apostille countries must have their criminal record document certified by the relevant country authorities, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Turkish Consulate.
The amendments to Turkish citizenship and residence permit applications represent a strategic move to ensure a more comprehensive vetting process. These changes, effective from 2024, aim to strike a balance between welcoming investors and safeguarding the integrity of the citizenship acquisition process.
Embark on your journey to Turkish citizenship with confidence. At Kurucuk & Associates Law Firm, based in the vibrant city of Istanbul, our experienced legal professionals stand ready to guide you through the intricacies of the amended application processes. Whether you're navigating residence permits, citizenship applications, or understanding the legal nuances of the recent amendments, our team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and successful transition for you and your family. Contact us today to explore the possibilities and let Kurucuk & Associates Turkish Citizenship Law Firm be your trusted partner on the path to a new chapter in Turkey. Your dreams of Turkish citizenship start here – reach out now for expert legal counsel and unwavering support.