28 UGLOBAL IMMIGRATION MAGAZINE
YOUR GUIDE TO TURKEY ’ S CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT PROGRAM
BY GÜVENÇ KETENCI
What are the qualification criteria , application rules and investment options to get a Turkish passport ?
The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program ( TCBI ) was launched by the Turkish government back in 2017 , and has since been met with great interest from global investors . The Turkish passport enables visa-free travel to 110 countries , valid for 10 years and renewable for a lifetime .
With respect to the other benefits of the TCBI , there is no residential obligation for the investors and no requirement to speak Turkish . The entire process can be finished remotely with a Power of Attorney .
Turkey also allows multiple citizenships , so it is not required to renounce existing ones . As for military service , the main applicants above 22 years old are not required to do military service in Turkey , and it is possible to be exempted from serving in military by paying a fee of approximately $ 5,000 . Additionally , all family members of the investor can obtain Turkish citizenship as well .
WHY CHOOSE TURKEY FOR CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT ?
Turkey is a very beautiful country , perfectly nestled between the crosspoints of Europe and Asia , boasts harmony of various rich cultures , and has one of the finest cuisines in the world .
Turkey offers excellent advantages providing the best climate for all kinds of activities , having some of the best beaches in Europe as well as being home to rich cultural landmarks such as the first civilization in the world ( Göbeklitepe ), and being a bridge between Europe and Asia .
Istanbul is amongst one of the coolest cities in the world and one of the biggest in Europe . Istanbul is renowned for its amazing historical heritage , wonderful food , and countless opportunities for all ages .
Turkey is a democratic and secular , muslim country with Civil law , and a continental European legal system in place . Traditionally Turkish people are known for their welcoming manner . With many new state-of-the-art hospitals , high schools and universities , Turkey offers its visitors and residents a high standard of life .
Turkey has numerous great universities providing excellent education and most importantly , diplomas are internationally admissible . Most of the universities use the ECTS ( European Credits Transfer System ) which means it is acceptable to ensure mutual recognition by the relevant institutions . The education is free and reimbursement plans are included .
No declaration of health is required while obtaining citizenship . Turkey provides full and free medical assistance for its citizens including all family members ( the spouse and children ) so this means citizens do not have to worry about high medical fees . Turkey also offers free pension programs so there is no need to worry about the after-work life . From a tax point of view , there is no taxation on foreign