Question 1

Can I get Turkish citizenship by buying property in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Turkey's Citizenship by Investment program requires minimum $400,000 USD investment in property. You must hold it for 3 years. Benefits include Turkish passport with visa-free access to 110+ countries, include spouse and children under 18, no language test, no residency requirement, dual citizenship allowed. Processing takes 3-6 months.

Question 2

What are the best neighborhoods in Istanbul for property investment?

Accepted Answer

European Side Premium: Beşiktaş ($5,000-8,000+/sqm), Şişli/Nişantaşı ($4,000-6,000/sqm), Bebek ($6,000-10,000+/sqm). Mid-Range: Kağıthane ($2,000-3,500/sqm), Beyoğlu ($2,500-4,500/sqm). Affordable: Esenyurt ($800-1,500/sqm), Beylikdüzü ($1,000-2,000/sqm). Asian Side: Kadıköy ($2,500-4,500/sqm), Ataşehir ($2,000-3,500/sqm).

Question 3

What services does Marvera provide for property buyers?

Accepted Answer

Marvera offers comprehensive real estate services: property search and viewing tours, legal assistance and TAPU processing, citizenship application support, property management for investors, renovation coordination, rental management, and after-sale support. We guide you through every step from property selection to final ownership.

Question 4

Can foreigners buy property in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Yes, citizens from over 180 countries can legally purchase property in Istanbul, Turkey. Since 2012, Turkey eliminated reciprocity requirements, making property ownership accessible to most foreign nationals. However, citizens from Syria, North Korea, Armenia, Cuba, and Nigeria face restrictions. Foreign buyers can purchase apartments, villas, commercial properties, and land (with some limitations). There are no requirements to live in Turkey or speak Turkish to buy property.

Question 5

What are the total costs of buying property in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Budget approximately 8-10% above property price. Costs include: Title Deed Fee (4% of value), Property Valuation ($300-500), Notary & Translation ($200-500), DASK Earthquake Insurance ($30-100/year), Utility Connections ($200-400), Agent Commission (2-4%, often paid by seller), Lawyer (optional, $1,000-3,000).

Question 6

Is buying property in Istanbul safe for foreigners?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when proper procedures are followed. Turkey has strong legal protections: official Land Registry system (TKGM), mandatory property valuation, digital TAPU verification, notary-certified transactions. To ensure safety: work with licensed agents, hire a lawyer, verify TAPU before purchase, use bank transfers only, get valuation report, check for encumbrances.

Question 7

How long does it take to get Turkish citizenship through property?

Accepted Answer

Typically 4-8 months total. Breakdown: Property purchase and TAPU transfer (1-3 weeks), residence permit application (1-2 weeks), citizenship application (1 day), government review (2-4 months), passport issuance (1-2 weeks after approval).

Question 8

What is a TAPU and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

The TAPU (Tapu Senedi) is Turkey's official title deed - the only legal document proving property ownership. Without a TAPU registered in your name at the Land Registry Office, you do not legally own the property. Types include: Kat Mülkiyeti (Red TAPU) for completed property, Kat İrtifakı (Blue TAPU) for under-construction, and Hisseli Tapu for shared ownership.

Question 9

Can I get a residence permit by buying property in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Yes, property ownership qualifies you for a Short-Term Residence Permit. Requirements: Own property (TAPU in your name), property in approved area, valid health insurance, sufficient funds, clean record. Since 2023: Minimum $200,000 value in Istanbul. Duration 1-2 years, renewable. Note: Buying property does NOT automatically grant residence - you must apply separately.

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