Buying Property for a Turkish Residence Permit: What You Need to Know

Turkey offers foreign nationals the opportunity to obtain a residence permit by purchasing real estate. It is a popular and convenient way to secure legal status, especially for those planning to relocate or stay in the country long term. Let's look at the key points to consider when buying property to obtain a residence permit.

• 1. Minimum property value for a residence permit

  To obtain a residence permit, the property value must meet the minimum requirements:

  • $75,000 (equivalent in Turkish lira) for major cities and tourist areas, including Alanya, Antalya and İstanbul.
  • $50,000 (equivalent in Turkish lira) for less developed regions.

  Tip:

  Make sure the actual value of the property matches the value stated in the TAPU (title deed). Under-declaring the price may lead to a residence permit refusal.

• 2. Which types of property qualify for a residence permit?

  You can obtain a residence permit by buying:

  • An apartment or a house.
  • A villa.
  • Commercial property (for example, an office).
  • A plot of land with a registered building.

  Important:

  The property must be habitable and registered with the land registry. Property in strategic zones (for example, military areas) does not qualify.

• 3. Steps to obtain a residence permit through property purchase

  Step 1: Buying the property

  • Register the ownership (TAPU) in your name.
  • Make sure you are listed as the owner of the property in the TAPU.

  Step 2: Obtaining a tax number

  • A tax number can be obtained from the local tax office.

  Step 3: Arranging health insurance

  • To apply for a residence permit, you need local health insurance covering the period of stay.

  Step 4: Preparing the documents

  To apply, you will need:

  • Passport (with a Turkish translation).
  • TAPU.
  • Sale and purchase agreement (if available).
  • A bank statement confirming payment for the property.
  • Health insurance.
  • Receipt for payment of the application fee.

  Step 5: Applying for the residence permit

  • The application is submitted via the online portal of Turkey's migration authority (Göç İdaresi).
  • After submission, an appointment is scheduled to present the original documents.

  Step 6: Awaiting the decision

  • The process usually takes 1–2 months.
• 4. Residence permit validity
  • The first residence permit is issued for 1 year.
  • It can then be renewed as long as you remain the owner of the property.
  • After 8 years of continuous residence in Turkey, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.
• 5. Additional costs when buying property for a residence permit

  When buying property, it is important to factor in additional costs:

  • Title deed tax (Tapu Harcı): 4% of the property value.
  • Notary and translator fees: from EUR 200.
  • Health insurance: from EUR 100 per year.
  • Utility connections: Electricity, water and gas, around EUR 150–200.
• 6. Benefits of a residence permit through property purchase
  • Simple process: It takes less time compared with other grounds for residence.
  • Right to reside: You can live in Turkey legally all year round.
  • Visa-free travel: A residence permit lets you move freely around the country and travel abroad.
  • Access to services: Residence permit holders can open a bank account, sign mobile phone contracts and use medical services.
• 7. Restrictions and risks
  • Property owners only: The residence permit is issued only to the owner named in the TAPU.
  • Meeting the requirements: If the property value does not meet the minimum requirements, the residence permit may be refused.
  • Restricted zones: Some areas of Turkey are closed to foreigners, so check this in advance.
• 8. Popular regions for buying property for a residence permit
  • Alanya: Developed infrastructure, affordable housing and an international community.
  • Antalya: A tourist hub with highly developed services and a wide choice of property.
  • İstanbul: The economic capital with broad investment opportunities.
  • Fethiye: A quiet, picturesque region for nature lovers.
• Conclusion

  Buying property in Turkey is not only an investment in a comfortable home but also an opportunity to obtain a residence permit. Make sure the property meets legal requirements and that all documents are prepared correctly.

Planning to buy property in Turkey? We will help you compare regions and properties to match your goals. Write to us: mail@sipwall.estate