Can foreigners buy real estate in Türkiye?

Avukat Cevabı:

Yes, foreigners can legally buy real estate (residential, commercial, or land) in Türkiye, provided their country of citizenship is included in the approved list determined by the President of the Republic. Following the abolition of the strict reciprocity principle in 2012 under Article 35 of the Land Registry Law No. 2644, citizens from over 180 countries are now eligible to acquire Turkish property.

However, foreign real estate acquisition is subject to the following statutory limitations and conditions:

• Area Limitations: A foreign individual can purchase a maximum of 30 hectares of property nationwide. Additionally, the total land acquired by foreigners cannot exceed 10% of the privately owned land area within a specific district.

• Restricted Zones: Foreigners are strictly prohibited from purchasing properties located within military forbidden zones or designated national security zones. During the title deed transfer, official clearance from the relevant military or administrative authorities is often required.

• Empty Land Obligation: If a foreign buyer purchases unbuilt land (such as an empty plot or agricultural field), they must submit a concrete architectural or agricultural project to the relevant Turkish Ministry for approval within two (2) years of the purchase date.

• Citizenship and Residency Benefits: Acquiring real estate above certain official valuation thresholds—currently $400,000 USD for Turkish Citizenship by Investment and $200,000 USD for a real estate-based residence permit—grants the buyer specific legal statuses, provided the property is not sold for at least three years.

Legal Tip for Buyers: All official property transfers in Türkiye must be conducted in person or via a legalized Power of Attorney at the local Land Registry Directorate (Tapu Müdürlüğü). To ensure the property is free of hidden debts, liens, or mortgages, and to secure the financial transaction, it is highly advisable to manage the legal due diligence through an independent Turkish real estate lawyer.