Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in Turkey?
- Zeynep Atım Kurucuk
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
As global mobility becomes easier and more people look to expand their personal and professional lives beyond borders, a common question arises: Is dual citizenship allowed in Turkey? Whether you’re an investor, expat, or simply someone with deep connections to more than one country, understanding Turkey’s stance on dual nationality is crucial.
Let’s unpack this topic with insight from trusted professionals, including the team at Kurucuk & Associates, a leading Turkey Lawyer firm based in Istanbul.
Understanding the Concept of Dual Citizenship
Before diving into "Is dual citizenship allowed in Turkey?", it’s important to understand what dual citizenship actually means. Dual (or multiple) citizenship allows an individual to be legally recognized as a citizen of two (or more) countries at the same time. Each country may have its own rules regarding rights, responsibilities, taxation, and military obligations.
Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in Turkey? A Clear Answer
Yes, Dual Citizenship Is Allowed in Turkey
The straightforward answer to “Is dual citizenship allowed in Turkey?” is yes. Turkish law permits its citizens to hold dual or multiple citizenships, as long as the other country’s laws also allow it.
The Turkish government does not require citizens to renounce their original citizenship when acquiring Turkish nationality, nor does it force Turkish nationals to relinquish their Turkish citizenship when acquiring another.
Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in Turkey? – Legal Foundations
Turkish Nationality Law
Under the Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901, Turkish nationals are free to obtain a second citizenship without losing their Turkish nationality, provided the other state’s laws permit it. The law promotes global integration and is especially favorable to those who aim to invest, live, or work both in Turkey and abroad.
What About Naturalized Citizens?
If you become a Turkish citizen through investment, marriage, or long-term residency, dual nationality is still possible. Many clients at Kurucuk & Associates, a respected Turkish Lawyer firm in Istanbul, have successfully obtained dual citizenship with guidance from experienced Lawyer Turkey professionals.
Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in Turkey? – Requirements and Process
Informing the Turkish Authorities
If you obtain a second nationality, Turkish law requires you to notify the civil registry office in Turkey and provide official documents proving your new citizenship. Failure to do so can result in complications with legal documentation and state benefits.
Applying for Turkish Citizenship While Retaining Original Nationality
For those applying for Turkish nationality—especially through investment routes or residency programs—working with an experienced Lawyer Turkey team such as Kurucuk & Associates ensures a smooth process and helps you retain your original citizenship.
Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in Turkey? – Practical Benefits
Greater Mobility
Dual citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a wider range of countries. With a Turkish passport, you gain easier access to countries in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Expanded Business Opportunities
Many clients at Kurucuk & Associates, especially Qatari, MENA-region, and European investors, choose dual citizenship to maximize investment and business access in Turkey’s growing economy.
Cultural and Family Ties
Holding both Turkish and another nationality makes it easier to maintain family ties, property ownership, and cultural connections across countries.
Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in Turkey? – Challenges to Consider
Military Service Obligations
Male Turkish citizens may still be subject to military service requirements. Dual citizens might face conflicting military duties, depending on the laws of the other country involved.
Taxation Complexities
Dual citizens might face double taxation, though Turkey has double taxation agreements with several countries. Consulting a Turkey Lawyer who understands international tax law is highly recommended.
Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in Turkey? – For Children Born Abroad
Children of Turkish Citizens
Children born abroad to Turkish citizens automatically acquire Turkish citizenship at birth. If they acquire the nationality of their birth country, they are automatically dual citizens—no extra applications are needed.
Why Choose a Turkish Lawyer for Dual Citizenship Matters?
If you’re considering Turkish nationality or need help navigating dual citizenship laws, working with a Turkish Lawyer is essential. The team at Kurucuk & Associates specializes in:
Citizenship by investment
Cross-border legal compliance
Family and real estate matters for dual nationals
Located in Maslak, Sarıyer, Istanbul, they offer consultation both in-office and remotely.
📍 Office Address: Maslak Mahallesi Taş Yoncası Sokak Ağaoğlu 1453 Sitesi T4 B Blok, Kat: -5 Daire: 195, Sarıyer Istanbul, Turkey
📞 Call at Office: +90 212 812 25 00
💬 WhatsApp: +90 545 290 18 25
📧 Email: info@kurucuk.com.tr