Editorial note: Turkey's citizenship-by-investment programme, property market conditions, and currency exchange rates are subject to change. The investment thresholds and programme details below reflect information available at the time of original publication. As of 2026, the minimum investment threshold has changed from earlier figures — verify the current requirement directly with the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Interior or a licensed Turkish immigration adviser before proceeding.
"If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital." — Napoleon Bonaparte
What makes Turkey special?
Turkey is a richly historical land with some of the finest cuisine you will encounter anywhere. Its landscapes range from Aegean olive groves and Mediterranean coastline to Anatolian plateau and the dramatic volcanic formations of Cappadocia. Its cities — Istanbul above all — combine Byzantine grandeur with a thoroughly modern commercial energy.
From the ancient port city of Ephesus to the soaring dome of the Hagia Sophia, Turkey has more world-famous monuments per square kilometre than almost anywhere on earth. Its cuisine — from the flowery subtlety of Turkish Delight to the sticky richness of baklava — is a destination in its own right.
Activity options span a remarkable range: diving around the ancient wrecks near Bodrum, windsurfing on the Aegean, rafting in mountain gorges, kayaking over the sunken ruins of Kekova, paragliding from the heights of Ölüdeniz, and hot-air ballooning above the otherworldly rock formations of Cappadocia. For a slower pace, the Lycian Way trail offers several days of walking through some of Turkey's most beautiful coastal and forested landscapes.
Key Facts
Climate: Varies significantly by region. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts enjoy hot, dry summers and mild winters. Istanbul has a temperate climate with cold, wet winters. The interior can experience extremes of both heat and cold.
Capital: Ankara (political); Istanbul (commercial and cultural centre)
Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
Official language: Turkish
Government: Presidential republic
Why invest in Turkish property?
Turkey combines an affordable property market with a well-established citizenship-by-investment programme, making it one of the most accessible pathways to a second passport globally. Turkish property prices — particularly in cities beyond Istanbul — remain competitive by international standards, and the country's strong domestic tourism market supports healthy rental yields in coastal and resort locations.
Istanbul remains the entry point for most international buyers. The city offers everything from restored historic apartments in neighbourhoods such as Beyoğlu and Karaköy to new-build luxury developments overlooking the Bosphorus. Beyond Istanbul, Bodrum and Antalya on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have established themselves as premium holiday home markets, with a growing base of international buyers.
Citizenship by Investment
Turkey's citizenship-by-investment programme grants Turkish citizenship to foreign investors who meet the minimum qualifying investment threshold in real estate (or alternative investment categories). The passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over one hundred countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.
The programme has been popular with Middle Eastern, South Asian, and Central Asian investors in particular. Processing times are typically three to six months from the date of application. The investment must be held for a minimum of three years.
Important: The minimum investment threshold has been revised upwards on multiple occasions since the programme was introduced. The figure applicable at the time of original publication may no longer be current. Confirm the precise current threshold — and all other eligibility conditions — directly with the Turkish government or a licensed adviser before taking any steps.
Property market overview
Turkey's property market is diverse and dynamic. Istanbul's prime neighbourhoods command prices comparable to many Western European cities, while resort areas on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts offer substantially more space and value. Off-plan purchases are common, with developers offering structured payment plans that make larger properties accessible to international buyers. Foreign buyers can purchase property in Turkey freehold in most locations (restrictions apply in some sensitive border areas). The buying process is relatively straightforward, and legal title (TAPU) transfer is efficient.
Buyers should engage a reputable local solicitor and conduct thorough due diligence on title, planning permissions, and any outstanding debts attached to a property before completing a purchase. Currency risk — given Turkish Lira volatility — is also a relevant consideration for international buyers pricing assets in foreign currency terms.