Foreigners and Citizenship Law are two interconnected areas that define the rights, obligations, and legal status of foreigners in Turkey. With the increasing number of foreigners living, working, and investing in the country, professional legal support is extremely important. At Fatih Durak and Partners Law Firm, we provide strategic guidance and representation to individuals and foreign and Turkey based companies in all matters of foreigners law, immigration law, residence permits law and citizenship procedures. Our team of experienced immigration and expat lawyers in Turkey ensures that every application and process is managed with principles of integrity, fairness, transparency, excellence, and a clear legal roadmap.
What Does a Citizenship Lawyer Do?
A citizenship lawyer in Turkey assists foreigners in acquiring citizenship status and ensures that foreigners’ citizenship applications are made in accordance with current legislation, provides advice on preparing all necessary documents for the application, and monitors the application process until its completion. Fatih Durak & Partners Law Firm aims to prepare applications, review documents, and best represent its clients before administrative and judicial authorities. Typical services include:
- Advising on eligibility for Turkish citizenship by residence permit, marriage, or investment,
- Preparing complete citizenship application files, submitting the application and monitoring the process and application,
- Conducting appeal or lawsuit processes in case of rejection of citizenship application,
- Providing ongoing legal consultancy to protect clients’ rights.
Our English speaking citizenship lawyers in Istanbul make these procedures easier for foreigners by combining legal expertise with clear and smooth communication.
Turkish Citizenship Application Services
Applying for Turkish citizenship is a complex process that requires strict compliance with Turkish law. Our Turkish citizenship lawyers assess each client’s situation to identify the most suitable path. Some foreigners qualify through long-term residence, while others may apply via marriage to a Turkish citizen. However, the most common pathway today is citizenship by investment in Turkey. This option enables foreigners to acquire citizenship by purchasing real estate of sufficient value, making substantial financial investments, or creating and sustaining jobs.
Legal Services for Foreigners in Turkey
Foreign nationals in Turkey require a wide range of legal services beyond citizenship. Our immigration lawyers in Istanbul provide tailored support in matters such as:
- Residence permits: Applying, following and finalizing short term residence permit, long term residence permit, family residence permit, humanitarian residence permit, student residence permit, renewal applications of foreigners who want to live in Turkey,
Foreigners; who will arrive to conduct scientific research, who will own immovable property in Turkey, who will establish business or commercial connections, who will participate in on-the-job training programmes, who will arrive to attend educational or similar programmes as part of student exchange programmes or agreements to which the Republic of Turkey is a party, who wish to stay for tourism (touristic) purposes, who intend to receive medical treatment, who are required to stay in Turkey pursuant to a request or a decision of judicial or administrative authorities, who transfer from a family residence permit, who will attend a Turkish language course, who will attend an education programme, research, internship or, a course by way of a public agency, who will apply within six months upon graduation from a higher education programme in Turkey, who do not work in Turkey but will make an investment within the scope and amount that shall be determined by the Council of Ministers can apply short-term residence permits.
- Work permits for employees, investors, company managers and partners
- Legal support in property purchase by foreigners and advice on VAT exemption for real estate,
- Company establishment in Turkey, including trade registry and tax compliance,
- Providing legal support to foreigners who will invest or establish companies in Turkey through real estate and other instruments,
- Recognition and enforcement of foreign court judgments and arbitral awards,
- Inheritance law consultancy for foreigners managing assets in Turkey,
- Preparing of contracts and dispute resolution between foreigners, state institutions, partners, employees and customers,
- The leasing of real estate in Turkey by foreign real or legal persons and the follow-up of related transactions and resolution of disputes,
- Interpretation of disputed articles of international agreements
- Appeals against deportation and administrative detention decisions and follow-up of necessary processes.
By combining expertise in foreigners law and citizenship law, we offer foreign nationals comprehensive protection in Turkey.
Steps to Apply for Turkish Citizenship
The citizenship process in Turkey requires careful planning and strict adherence to deadlines.
- Eligibility assessment based on residence, marriage, or investment,
- Preparing required documents such as passports, residence records, birth certificate, marital status certificate, criminal record and sworn translations and notarizations,
- Filing the application with the Directorate of Population and Citizenship,
- Administrative review including security and background checks,
- Final decision: approval, rejection, or request for further information,
- Appeals or court actions if the application is rejected.
Our citizenship lawyers in Istanbul supervise each stage to minimize risks and achieve positive outcomes.
Citizenship by Investment in Turkey
The citizenship by investment program is one of the fastest and safe ways for foreigners to acquire Turkish citizenship. Applicants may qualify by buying real estate, depositing funds into Turkish banks, or create employment opportunities in Turkey. As your lawyer for Turkish citizenship by investment, we ensure that property to be purchased is suitable and reliable for Turkish citizenship, contracts are legally binding, funds are traceable, and all regulatory requirements are met. With our guidance, the process becomes secure and efficient, avoiding common traps.
English Speaking Citizenship Lawyer in Istanbul
International clients need more than legal expertise, they also need clear and smooth communication. At FD Partners Law Firm, our English speaking citizenship and immigration lawyers in Istanbul assist clients from Europe, America, Asia, and the Middle East. This ensures that every step of the process is fully understood and that cultural and linguistic barriers are removed.
How Long Does a Turkish Citizenship Application Take?
The timeline depends on the pathway:
- Citizenship by investment is usually finalized within 6 – 12 months,
- Citizenship by marriage and Citizenship by residence are usually finalized within 1 – 2 years,
Our citizenship lawyers in Turkey help our clients avoid unnecessary delays by preparing applications correctly and completely, in accordance with the Turkish Citizenship Law and current legal regulations. The Role of an Immigration Lawyer The role of an immigration lawyer is fundamentally based on providing legal services aimed at assisting individuals with various immigration-related matters. From interpreting laws to advising clients on their legal status, the role of an immigration lawyer is very comprehensive. An attorney in this field is typically tasked with handling complex legal situations that require not only knowledge but also a thorough understanding of the intricacies of the law. Attorneys’ comprehensive knowledge of immigration laws enables them to effectively represent their clients’ situations and rights. The experienced immigration lawyers at Fatih Durak & Partners Law Firm specialize in this field and aim to provide their clients with the best possible service.
Citizenship Lawyer Fees and Legal Costs in Turkey
The legal service fees for citizenship applications vary depending on complexity and whether litigation is required. As Fatih Durak & Partners Law Firm, we provide transparent information about costs and service fees from the outset to ensure our clients know exactly what to expect.
Why Choose FD Partners Citizenship Lawyers in Istanbul?
Choosing the right citizenship lawyer in Istanbul is the first step towards a successful application. At FD Partners, we combine legal expertise, transparent communication, and a strong record of success. We are recognized for:
- In professional experience in Turkish citizenship and foreigners law,
- Proven success in citizenship applications and appeals,
- Personalized strategies that match each client’s profile,
- Clear communication through our English speaking citizenship lawyers
Our Citizenship and Immigration lawyers do not merely fill out forms; they develop strategies that maximize your chances of success and protect your long-term interests.
Contact Our Citizenship Lawyers
If you are planning to apply for Turkish citizenship, purchase real estate, establish a company in Turkey, enter into a legal marriage in Turkey, make an investment in Turkey, or obtain a residence permit or work permit, our team is ready to assist you. Contact our English speaking citizenship and immigration lawyers in Istanbul for residence, work permits, and Turkish citizenship applications.
Frequently Asked Questions on Turkish Citizenship
Can I apply for Turkish citizenship by buying property?
Yes, you can apply if the value of the property exceeds the value specified for the citizenship by investment program and meets the required legal conditions.
Do I need a lawyer for Turkish citizenship applications?
While not mandatory, working with a citizenship lawyer in Turkey significantly reduces the risk of errors and delays while also protecting you and your investment legally.
What happens if my citizenship application is rejected?
You can file an objection with the Population and Citizenship Directorate or an appeal to start an annulment case before Turkish courts. Our lawyers prepare objections supported with new evidence.
Can my family apply with me?
Yes. Spouses and children are included in Turkish citizenship by investment applications.
How long does it take to obtain Turkish citizenship by marriage or Citizenship by residence?
It usually takes within 1 – 2 years,
Is knowledge of Turkish language required?
Turkish language proficiency is not a formal requirement under the investment route.
Can foreigners inherit property in Turkey?
Yes. Foreign nationals may inherit property, though inheritance procedures can be complex and require professional legal guidance.
What documents are needed for a citizenship application?
Generally, a valid passport, residence history, property or investment documents, civil status documents, birth certificates, criminal records, and notarized translations are required
