Questions & Answers
Investing in Turkey to get Turkish citizenship
I am Egyptian, and I would like to set up a business in Turkey. I’ve heard that if you invest USD X amount, you may be eligible for privileges.
Can I invest in any sector, like restaurants or import and export of clothes? Or it has to be in a specific area of investment?
Also, what are the privileges that I can have as a foreign investor?
I appreciate your answers.
You can establish any type of company and any type of business; there is no restriction for foreigners to establish a business in Turkey other than national security fields.
You are subject to the same conditions as Turkish citizens, and there are no privileges for foreigners because you have the same rights as Turkish Citizens.
Therefore if you establish a company which capital is 100.000 TL and hire at least 5 Turkish citizens, you can get a work permit.
Also, if you invest to establish a company with 500.000 USD capital you can apply/gain Turkish citizenship.
Best Regards,
Zelal Senguler
Attorney at Law
Hello,
Thank you for your email. We are thrilled that you are considering to be a foreign investor in Turkey.
Let me start by telling you that there are various benefits to being a foreign investor in Turkey. These benefits depend on the amount and the location (i.e. which city) of your investment.
Firstly, your investment needs to be a minimum of 500.000 USD and there is no maximum limit. There are various investment plans you can choose from while constructing your investment planز
If you would like to have more information regarding these plans, please feel free to email us back.
Secondly, you will be eligible for some federal tax exemptions depending on your investment.
The Ministry of Finance considers the amount and the location of your investment as well as the investment plan you choose while deciding which exemption you are eligible to.
Another benefit of being a foreign investor is that you might be eligible to receive free land or a venue for your investment depending on the type of investment plan you are considering.
Thirdly, being able to apply for Turkish citizenship is another benefit provided for foreign investors.
If you invest a minimum of 500.000 USD or buy real estate that at least worth 250.000 USD, you are eligible to benefit from the citizenship privilege.
So far, I only very briefly discussed the minimum requirements and the overall benefits of being a foreign investor. Please, consider seeking professional help for your future inquiries.
Best regards.
