25 What is stages and timeline for Turkish Citizenship?

Navigating the path to Turkish citizenship can raise many questions, whether you’re applying through investment in Istanbul, marriage, Ottoman heritage, exceptional circumstances, or other avenues. Regardless of your eligibility criteria, it’s vital to understand that the stages of naturalization in Turkey are consistent for all applicants.

In this guide, we’ll shed light on the process and crucial details. And remember, our Istanbul Apartments For Sale team is ready to assist you every step of the way.

The 8 Stages of Turkish Naturalization in 2024

All naturalization applications in Turkey follow these eight stages, from the initial application to the final notification of success. While the core process remains the same, the speed at which you progress can vary, particularly between investors and other applicants like those seeking citizenship through exceptional circumstances or other routes.

1. Registration and Initial Approval: The process starts with submitting your application and securing approval from the Immigration Department during your first interview. Required documents may differ based on your circumstances, but some are universally necessary. These documents are reviewed by the State Population Department before moving to the General Directorate of Population in Ankara.
2. File Transfer to Ankara: Your application is sent to the General Directorate of Population in Ankara for further evaluation.
3. Preliminary Review: Your file undergoes a thorough review, scrutinizing all documents, before moving on to specialized authorities for a more comprehensive background check.
4. In-Depth Review and Background Check: This is a critical stage, where extensive research and investigation are conducted by security, foreign affairs, finance, and intelligence directorates. Any objections or issues uncovered at this point could lead to delays or rejection.
5. Submission to the Council of Ministers: If your file clears all previous stages, it’s included in a list sent to the relevant authority for approval.
6. Final Decision: This stage signifies that your application has reached the final decision-maker and awaits approval to grant you citizenship.
7. Notification: The final decision is communicated through the entity that initially processed your application. A congratulatory message indicates that you’ve become a Turkish citizen with full rights.
8. Obtaining Your Identity Documents: Once notified, visit the Population Department to collect your naturalization decision. Following this, you’ll apply for your Turkish identity card at your local Population Department.

Timeframes for Naturalization in Turkey in 2024

The duration of the naturalization process can fluctuate based on various factors. For real estate investors working with Istanbul Apartments For Sale, the process can be remarkably swift, often taking no more than 90 days. In other scenarios, timelines may extend, sometimes significantly, from document submission to final approval.

For exceptional citizenship, marriage, or work permit applicants, expect a longer wait, typically exceeding 9 months, and in some cases, lasting up to two years.

Does the application method impact processing times?

As mentioned earlier, processing times differ between investors and other applicants, depending on factors like marriage, work permits, or exceptional citizenship criteria.

Tracking Your Application

The Immigration Department provides a link for applicants to check their citizenship application status online. You’ll need your application number and date of birth to access updates.

Let Us Guide You

Remember, the Istanbul Apartments For Sale team is here to support you at every stage of your Turkish citizenship journey. Reach out to us for expert assistance and personalized advice.