Owning a home in Turkey can support an application for a short-term residence permit (kısa dönem ikamet izni). It is usually given for one or two years and can be renewed while you keep the property.
Before you buy: check the neighbourhood
To avoid too many foreign residents in one area, the Presidency of Migration Management has closed some neighbourhoods to new residence registrations by foreigners. If a neighbourhood is closed, you can still buy there, but you may not be able to get a residence permit at that address. Ask the agency, or check the current list with the migration authority before you reserve.
Main conditions
- The property is a residential home registered in your name.
- Minimum value: a minimum property value applies. It is different in metropolitan and other provinces, and it has been changed several times. Check the current figure on the official e-residence website (e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr) or with a lawyer.
- Valid health insurance for the whole permit period.
- You live at the property's address and register it with the population office.
Documents you will usually need
- Passport and copies
- Biometric photos
- Title deed (and valuation report, if requested)
- Health insurance policy
- DASK earthquake insurance
- Proof of address (for example, a utility bill)
How to apply
- Fill in the online application at e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr and pick an appointment.
- Go to the provincial migration office with your documents.
- Pay the permit card fee. The card is sent to your address.
Citizenship is different. The USD 400,000 citizenship route has its own residence permit for investors. See our citizenship guide.
Important — This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Turkish rules and thresholds change often; confirm the current rules with a licensed lawyer and the official authorities before you buy.