Turkey has become one of the most preferred countries for foreign investors, entrepreneurs, students and families wishing to establish a long-term life. For this reason, immigration law, foreigners law, and citizenship law have become central legal fields.

As a Bursa immigration lawyer, this article explains the legal paths for foreigners to obtain Turkish citizenship, the criteria required for each path, and the structure of the evaluation process. 

1. Ways to Obtain Turkish Citizenship

Foreigners may apply for Turkish citizenship through several legal pathways under the Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901.

1.1. Citizenship by Marriage

Marriage to a Turkish citizen does not automatically grant citizenship. This process is one of the most sensitive topics within immigration law.

Requirements:

• Marriage must have lasted at least 3 years

• The spouses must maintain a genuine family life

• No threat to public order or security

• Marriage must be real and not for convenience

During the process, interviews, home visits and authenticity checks may be conducted. Legal assistance from an immigration lawyer significantly improves the process.

1.2. Citizenship by General Application (5-Year Residence)

Foreigners who have legally resided in Turkey for 5 continuous years may apply through the general route.

Evaluated criteria include:

• Intention to settle in Turkey

• Sufficient financial means

• Ability to communicate in Turkish

• No threat to public order

For many foreigners living in Bursa, this is the most common path. Support from a Bursa immigration lawyer helps create a complete and accurate file.

1.3. Citizenship by Investment

Turkey’s investment citizenship program (Golden Visa) is one of the fastest and most preferred options for investors.

Available options include:

• Purchasing real estate worth at least 400,000 USD

• Bank deposit of 500,000 USD (3-year block)

• Making a 500,000 USD investment

• Creating employment for at least 50 people

Due to the technical nature of investment approval and verification, working with a lawyer specialized in immigration and citizenship law is highly recommended.

1.4. Exceptional Citizenship

This route applies to individuals who contribute to Turkey in fields such as science, sports, economy, culture or international prestige.
This includes:

• Globally recognized individuals

• Investors with major contributions

• Persons of Turkish descent

• Individuals with exceptional talents

Final approval in this category is given by the Presidency.

2. Citizenship Application Procedure

Each citizenship method includes its own procedural and legal requirements.

2.1. Preparation of the Application File

Identity, residence history, family status, investments and legal background are reviewed.

2.2. Review by the Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs

Security and background checks are conducted.

2.3. Ministry Evaluation

The Ministry of Interior examines eligible applications.

2.4. Presidential Approval

Exceptional and investment-based applications require Presidential approval.

3. Rejection of Applications and Deportation Risks

Applications may be rejected for several reasons:

• Negative security check

• Marriage deemed fraudulent

• Incomplete or interrupted residence period

In such cases, foreigners may face deport risks.
Working with a deport lawyer or Bursa deport lawyer is essential for appealing rejection decisions, lifting entry bans, and preventing deportation.

4. Importance of Legal Assistance

Errors in the citizenship application process may cause serious consequences. Therefore, legal support is crucial in:

• Preparing the correct application file

• Guiding the interview process

• Monitoring security checks

• Filing appeals against rejection

• Preventing deport consequences

Conclusion

Obtaining Turkish citizenship is a multi-stage, technical and legally intensive process. Identifying the correct legal path and preparing an error-free file increases the chances of approval.

As a Bursa immigration lawyer, professional guidance throughout the entire procedure significantly improves success rates and protects the rights of foreigners living in Turkey.