Turkish Passports – A Complete Guide to Benefits, Types & Application Process
Turkey offers one of the most powerful and advantageous passports for global mobility and investment opportunities. Whether you are a Turkish citizen by birth or obtained citizenship through investment, Turkish Passports provide you with access to over 110 visa-free destinations, the right to live, work, and travel freely, and several economic benefits.
This guide explains everything about Turkish Nationality, including types, benefits, eligibility, and application procedures.
Why Choose Turkish Passports?
A Turkish Nationality is highly sought after due to its global advantages and investment-friendly policies.
Top Benefits of Holding a Turkish ID
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries, including Japan, Singapore, and South Korea.
Eligibility for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa, allowing residency in the United States.
Fast-track passport acquisition through real estate investment.
Full rights to live, work, and own businesses in Turkey.
Access to high-quality healthcare and education in Turkey.
Dual citizenship is allowed, meaning you can hold another nationality.
No minimum residency requirement, allowing flexibility for international investors.
Types of Turkish Passports
There are four types of Turkish Documents, each with different eligibility and privileges.
1. Ordinary Passport (Bordo)
Issued to Turkish citizens for international travel.
Allows visa-free entry to over 110 countries.
Standard validity: 10 years.
2. Special Passport (Yeşil – Green Passport)
Issued to government officials, civil servants, and professionals.
More visa-free travel options than the ordinary passport.
Available for Turkish government employees, lawyers, and university professors.
3. Service Passport (Gri – Gray Passport)
Issued to Turkish diplomats, state employees, and official representatives traveling abroad.
Provides official travel privileges and easier visa exemptions.
4. Diplomatic Passport (Siyah – Black Passport)
Reserved for high-ranking Turkish officials, diplomats, and parliament members.
No visa requirement for most countries worldwide.
How to Obtain a Turkish Passport?
1. Turkish Citizenship by Birth
You automatically receive a Turkish citizenship if you are born to Turkish parents.
If born in Turkey to foreign parents, you may be eligible based on certain legal conditions.
2. Turkish Citizenship Through Investment
Foreigners can obtain Turkish Citizenship and a Turkish passports through real estate investment.
Key Requirements for Citizenship by Investment:
Purchase real estate worth at least $400,000 USD.
Hold the property for at least 3 years.
All payments must be made through Turkish banks.
Apply for Turkish Citizenship after receiving the Certificate of Conformity.
3. Citizenship Through Marriage
If you marry a Turkish citizen, you can apply for Turkish Citizenship after 3 years of marriage.
4. Citizenship Through Long-Term Residency
Foreigners who live in Turkey for 5+ years can apply for citizenship and obtain a Turkish passport.
Application Process for your Turkish Documents
To apply for a Turkish documents, follow these steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
National ID or Turkish Citizenship certificate.
Recent biometric photographs (50×60 mm).
Passport application form from the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs.
Fee payment receipt.
2. Submit Your Application
Visit the Turkish Authority Office or apply through e-Government (e-Devlet).
3. Processing Time
Standard processing takes 7-10 days.
Express applications can be processed within 24-48 hours.
How Long are Turkish Passports Valid?
Ordinary passports are valid for 10 years.
Green, gray, and diplomatic passports are issued for 5 years.
Renewals are processed through Turkey’s Population and Citizenship Offices.
Turkish vs. European & Other Global Passports
Comparison of a Turkish with Other Passports
Passport
Visa-Free Countries
Citizenship by Investment
U.S. E-2 Visa Eligibility
Residency Requirement
Turkish Passport
110+
Yes ($400,000 real estate investment)
Yes
No residency required
Portugal Passport
190+
Yes (€500,000 investment)
No
5 years residency
U.K. Passport
185+
No
No
N/A
U.A.E. Passport
170+
Yes ($2M investment)
No
No residency required
U.S. Passport
185+
No
N/A
N/A
Why Choose a Turkish Nationality?
More accessible investment route compared to European passports.
Faster processing than Portugal’s Golden Visa.
No residency requirement, unlike many EU citizenship programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I hold dual citizenship with a Turkish citizenship?
Yes, Turkey allows dual citizenship, meaning you can retain your current nationality.
2. Can I travel to the Schengen Zone with a Turkish ID?
Turkish passport holders need a Schengen visa, but Turkey is negotiating for visa-free access to the EU.
3. How long does it take to obtain a Turkish nationality through investment?
The citizenship process takes 3-6 months, after which you can apply for a Turkish passport.
4. Can my family get Turkish passports through my investment?
Yes, spouses and children under 18 automatically receive Turkish passports.
5. Can I renew my passport if I live abroad?
Yes, renewals can be done at any Turkish consulate or embassy worldwide.
Secure Your Turkish Passport Today!
A Turkish passport is a powerful global asset, offering visa-free travel, business opportunities, and secure investments. Whether you are looking for a second passport through investment or planning to live in Turkey long-term, this is an unmatched opportunity.