Moving to Turkey
Complete relocation guide
Moving Checklist
Before & after arrival
Relocation Timeline
Week-by-week what to expect
Cost of Living
Budgets across major cities
Healthcare in Turkey
Insurance, SGK, hospitals
From the UK
From Germany
From the Netherlands
From Belgium
From France
From Sweden
From Norway
From Switzerland
From Austria
From the USA
From Canada
From Australia
From the UAE
Property Guide for Expats 2026
Buying Property in Turkey
as a Foreigner: 2026 Guide
The complete guide to purchasing real estate in Turkey as a foreign national — legal process, title deeds, costs, citizenship pathway, and what to watch out for.
Can foreigners buy?
Turkey is one of the most open markets for foreign buyers.
Citizens of 183 countries can purchase freehold real estate in Turkey with minimal restrictions — no residence permit needed to buy. A Turkish tax number (free, quick) is all you need initially.
The only main restriction is military zones — properties nearby require a clearance check, typically 3–15 days for most urban properties (most are pre-cleared).
No residence permit needed to buy
You can purchase property as a tourist on a visa. A Turkish tax number is all you need initially.
Freehold ownership
Full freehold (mülkiyet) ownership with title deed. Not leasehold. Your name directly on the TAPU.
Can be used for citizenship
A purchase of $400,000+ can qualify you for Turkish citizenship via the investment programme.
Strong rental yields
Coastal cities generate 5–9% gross rental yields. Istanbul's short-term rental market is strong.
Purchase process
Step-by-step: buying property in Turkey.
Get a Tax Number (Vergi Numarası)
Required before any property transaction. Obtain from any local tax office with your passport. Takes 15 minutes.
Open a Turkish Bank Account
Required to receive a title deed (TAPU). Most banks need a residence permit — some accept a tax number.
Find the Property
Work with a licensed agent (emlakçı). Inspect in person, verify no unpaid debts or restrictions on the title.
Sign a Preliminary Contract
Typically a 10% deposit is paid. Ensure the contract covers all conditions, price, and handover date.
Military Clearance Check
Properties near military zones require a clearance check. Most urban properties are pre-cleared. Takes 3–15 days.
Title Deed Transfer (TAPU)
Both parties attend the Land Registry Office. The deed is transferred and you pay the remaining balance.
Pay Taxes & Fees
Title deed transfer tax (4% of declared value), agent commission (2–3%), notary fees if applicable.
Register Utilities & DASK Insurance
Transfer electricity, gas, and water. DASK (mandatory earthquake insurance) is required for all properties.
Taxes & fees
Full cost of buying property.
Total transaction costs are generally 6–10% of the purchase price — lower than many EU countries. Budget carefully and factor these into your purchase calculations.
Turkish citizenship
Citizenship by investment — via property.
Purchase qualifying property and apply for Turkish citizenship. Includes visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 110+ countries.
Real estate purchase
Single or multiple properties totalling this value. Must be held 3 years.
Fixed capital investment
In a business or industrial investment in Turkey.
Government bond deposit
In Turkish government bonds, held 3 years.
Related guides
Title Deed Transfer Process
The 8-step tapu transfer at the land registry
Hidden Costs of Buying Property
Every purchase cost, tax, and fee to budget for
Real Estate Lawyer Guide
What a Turkish property lawyer costs and does
Property Due Diligence
Full verification checklist before you buy
Tapu Guide Turkey
All title deed types and annotations explained
Residence Permit Guide
Living legally in Turkey
Living in Istanbul
Istanbul real estate market
Living in Antalya
Antalya property market
Power of Attorney in Turkey
Appoint a representative to buy property remotely
Notary Services in Turkey
Notarisation of contracts and documents
Certified Translations in Turkey
Translate foreign documents for property purchase