Investors can secure Turkish citizenship by maintaining $500,000 in Turkish banks or government debt instruments for three years.
For global investors who prioritize liquidity and financial agility over property management, the Financial Deposit and Bond Route offers a streamlined, “hassle-free” path to Turkish citizenship. Under the current 2026 framework, an investor who deposits at least $500,000 (or its equivalent in foreign currency) into a bank operating in Türkiye is eligible for citizenship. The primary condition, verified by the Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BRSA), is that the funds must remain in the account for a minimum of three years.
A major update in the 2025-2026 period involves the currency conversion rule. Investors are required to exchange their foreign currency for Turkish Lira through a Foreign Currency Purchase Certificate (DAB). The funds are then held in a TRY-denominated account. However, many Turkish banks now offer “Lira-Protection” schemes or competitive interest rates—currently ranging from 30% to 45% annually—allowing investors to earn a significant return on their capital while waiting for their holding period to expire. This makes the banking route not just a citizenship play, but a high-yield financial investment.
Alternatively, investors can opt for Government Debt Instruments (Bonds). By purchasing $500,000 worth of government bonds and holding them for three years, investors contribute directly to the nation’s fiscal stability while benefiting from coupon payments. This route is favored by institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals who prefer the security of state-backed instruments. The Ministry of Treasury and Finance oversees this path, issuing the necessary “Certificate of Conformity” once the purchase is verified.
The financial route is often the fastest to process. Once the deposit is made and the block is placed on the account, the residence permit and citizenship applications can be lodged within weeks. In 2026, the entire process—from deposit to receiving a Turkish passport—typically takes 6 to 8 months. For sourcing partners who already have significant capital flow through Turkish banks, this route provides a seamless way to formalize their relationship with the country without the complexities of property maintenance or business management.
Citations & Sources:
- Financial Regulator: Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BDDK/BRSA)
- Official Update: Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye – Foreign Exchange Purchase Regulations
- Legal Portal: MFY Legal – Turkish Citizenship by Bank Deposit Guide 2026
