Complete Guide: Steps to Obtain Residency in Turkey, Citizenship Process, and Property Rental Laws in Alanya
In recent years, Turkey has become one of the most popular destinations for immigration. Whether you're aiming for permanent residence, investment, or retirement, understanding the legal procedures is essential. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of obtaining Turkish residency and citizenship, and take a detailed look at property rental laws in Alanya.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Residency in Turkey
To obtain Turkish residency by buying property, you must follow these steps:
● Choose the type of residency (tourist, property-based, work, or student)
● Prepare required documents including a valid passport, biometric photos, health insurance, proof of financial means, and a rental contract or property deed
● Submit an application on the official portal: e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr
● Receive an appointment and attend the immigration office
● Submit your documents at the interview and pay government fees
● Receive your residency card within 30 to 60 working days
Official Quote from the Turkish Immigration Office Website: “İkamet izni başvuruları yalnızca e-ikamet sistemi üzerinden alınmaktadır.”
Translation: Residency permit applications are accepted only through the electronic system.
Note: If you are applying for property-based residency (Tapu-based), the selected property must be located in a "white zone" of the city and the deed must show a value of at least $200,000
What Are “White Zones” in Turkey?
"White zones" refer to neighborhoods where less than 20% of the population consists of foreigners.
Official Quote from the Turkish Immigration Website: “Yabancı yoğunluğu yüzde 20'yi aşan mahallelerde yeni ikamet izni başvuruları kabul edilmemektedir. Ancak, yüzde 20'nin altında yabancı nüfusu olan mahallelerde başvurular devam etmektedir.”
Translation: In neighborhoods where the foreign population exceeds 20%, new residency applications are not accepted. However, applications continue in neighborhoods with less than 20% foreign population.
Residency Application Timeline
Step
Preparing documents
Estimated Time
Up to 7 days
Submitting online application 1 day
Getting appointment
Up to 20 days
Document review Up to 60 days
Issuance of residency card Up to 14 days
Approximate Costs for Obtaining Residency in Turkey
Cost Type
Annual health insurance
Government fee (1-year residency)
Approximate Amount
Up to $300
Up to $150
Official document translation Up to $150
Notary fees Up to $100
Steps to Obtain Turkish Citizenship
There are several paths to Turkish citizenship. The most popular methods include:
● Purchasing real estate worth at least $400,000 and holding it for 3 years
● Making a direct economic investment of $500,000
● Marriage to a Turkish citizen (after living together for at least 3 years)
● Continuous legal residence in Turkey for at least 5 years with a valid work or residency permit
Official Quote from Turkey’s Ministry of Interior: “Türk vatandaşlığı, gerekli şartları sağlayan yabancılara istisnai olarak da verilebilmektedir.”
Translation: Turkish citizenship can be exceptionally granted to foreigners who meet the required conditions.
Turkish Citizenship Application Timeline
Step
Estimated Time
Property purchase or investment 10 to 30 days
Obtaining property valuation report Up to 7 days
Title deed registration (Tapu) 3 to 5 days
Certificate of Eligibility (Uygunluk) Up to 15 days
Preparing documents for citizenship 7 to 14 days
Filing citizenship application 1 day
Security and document review 3 to 6 months
Final approval and passport issuance
10 to 30 days
Documents Required for Turkish Citizenship Application
● Valid passport
● Official property deed
● Property valuation report
● Valid health insurance
● Certificate of no criminal record
● Four biometric photos
● Receipt of paid government fees
Property Rental Laws in Alanya
Alanya, with its beautiful beaches and excellent climate, attracts many foreigners. However, renting property here comes with specific legal requirements:
● The rental contract must be official and notarized
● Rental agreements for foreigners are valid for one year and can be renewed
● The landlord is required to register the contract with the tax office
● Unless otherwise stated in the contract, the tenant is responsible for paying utility bills (electricity, water, internet)
Official Quote from Alanya Municipality: “Yabancı uyrukluların kiralık konut sözleşmeleri noter huzurunda yapılmalıdır.”
Translation: Rental agreements for foreign nationals must be notarized in the presence of a notary.
Important: Without an official notarized rental agreement, you may face serious issues with your residency or its renewal.
Flats for sale in Alanya Turkey
Alanya is one of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal cities. low cost of living, and strong investment opportunities, it has become a popular choice among foreigners for buying Flats for sale in Alanya Turkey.
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Conclusion
If you're seeking a peaceful, affordable home by the sea, buying property in Alanya is ideal. If you're focused on serious investment and capital growth, Istanbul is the better choice. In both cases, buying property can lead to residency and even Turkish citizenship.
Compared to many European countries, obtaining residency and citizenship in Turkey is simpler, but requires careful attention and compliance with regulations. If you're seeking peace, secure investment, and a high quality of life, cities like Alanya and Istanbul may be the perfect fit.
Travok Real estate: Your Trusted Partner for Residency and Investment in Turkey
When it comes to buying property, renting a home, or obtaining residency and citizenship in Turkey, having a reliable and professional advisor is crucial.
With years of experience in real estate in Alanya and Istanbul, Travok Estate is a trustworthy partner for both Iranian and international clients.
Travok Real Estate Services Include:
● Expert consultation for choosing the right property for residency or citizenship
● Handling all procedures for property purchase, valuation report, and deed registration (Tapu)
● Full support in the residency or citizenship application process
● Guidance on rental laws, preparing official contracts, and notarization
● Assistance with additional services such as health insurance, obtaining a tax ID, and opening a bank account
From choosing your property to receiving your residency or Turkish passport, Travok Real estate will be with you every step of the way ensuring everything is done according to the latest Turkish laws, with no stress.