Requirements for Turkish citizenship through the general route
- Being of full age and having the capacity to discern,
- Having resided in Türkiye for 5 years without interruption, counting back from the application date,
- Demonstrating the intention to settle in Türkiye through one's conduct (property, a business, investment, working with a work permit, a Turkish citizen spouse or relative, applying as a family, education in Türkiye),
- Not posing a danger in terms of general health and being of good moral character,
- Being able to speak Turkish at a sufficient level,
- Having an income or profession sufficient to support oneself and one's dependants,
- Not constituting an obstacle in terms of national security and public order.
Which periods count?
- Family, short-term (excluding tourist), work permit and long-term residence periods count.
- Tourist residence periods never count. Student and medical treatment periods are taken into account if you later switch to a permit that counts.
- Staying without a permit for more than 6 months interrupts residence; the 5 years start again from that date.
- Time abroad: the law allows absences of up to 12 months in total within 5 years; however, the Regulation and practice may apply a 6-month limit. Where absences exceed 6 months, the file must be prepared carefully.
Those who have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least 3 years can apply through marriage, while those who make an investment of a certain amount and Turquoise Card holders can apply for citizenship through the exceptional route.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply?
Applications are made to the Provincial Directorate of Population and Citizenship (İl Nüfus ve Vatandaşlık Müdürlüğü) in the province where you live. After you apply, a commission interview is held and your knowledge of Turkish is assessed.
Can I apply if there is a case against me?
No. Applications are not accepted in the event of an ongoing prosecution, a conviction or detention.
Legal basis: 5901 sayılı Türk Vatandaşlığı Kanunu Art. 11, 12, 15, 16; Türk Vatandaşlığı Kanununun Uygulanmasına İlişkin Yönetmelik Art. 15, 16, 71.
