Bosphorus Real Estate
The answers to
We've answered the most common questions on buying, renting, foreign buyers, and Turkish citizenship.
Buying
The Property Purchase Process
What documents are required to buy a property in Istanbul?
Turkish citizens need a national ID and tax number. Foreign buyers need a passport, a Turkish tax number, and officially translated documents. The title deed transfer also requires DASK (mandatory earthquake insurance) and identity registration for both buyer and seller.
How long does the title deed transfer take?
Once the required documents are complete, the title deed transfer (tapu) is typically completed within 3–7 business days. Timings vary depending on the Land Registry appointment schedule and payment method. Bosphorus Real Estate handles all appointment scheduling and document tracking on your behalf.
What taxes and fees apply when buying a property?
The title deed transfer tax is 4% of the declared value, normally split equally between buyer and seller (2% each). Additional costs include notary fees, DASK earthquake insurance, and environmental cleaning tax. We provide a transparent cost breakdown upfront before any commitment.
Renting
About Rentals
What should I watch out for in a rental agreement?
The rental contract must clearly specify the rent amount, annual increase rate (capped by law at the 12-month average CPI), deposit (maximum 3 months' rent), who pays service charges and utilities, a property handover report, and termination conditions. Bosphorus Real Estate uses comprehensive templates that protect both tenant and landlord rights.
Is rent increase capped by law in Turkey?
Yes. Under the Turkish Code of Obligations, annual residential rent increases cannot exceed the 12-month average CPI published by TÜİK. A temporary 25% cap was also introduced in 2023 and may be updated by current legislation. Our advisors always follow the latest legal framework.
Foreign Buyers
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Turkey?
Can foreign nationals purchase property in Turkey?
Yes. Under Article 35 of the Land Registry Law, citizens of 183 countries may acquire property in Turkey on a reciprocity basis. This includes Gulf nationals (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, etc.). Some restrictions apply to military zones and protected heritage areas.
Can foreign buyers obtain a residence permit in Turkey?
Foreign nationals who purchase property in Turkey — regardless of its value — may apply for a "Real Estate Investment Residence Permit." This renewable permit can, under certain conditions, be converted into a long-term residence permit.
Turkish Citizenship
Citizenship by Property Investment
How does Turkish citizenship by real estate investment work?
By acquiring property worth at least USD 400,000 (or the equivalent in foreign currency), a citizenship application may be submitted to Turkey. The property must be appraised by a CMB-licensed valuation firm. The application is processed through the Directorate General of Migration Management and typically takes 3–6 months.
Can my spouse and children be included in the citizenship application?
Yes. The investor's spouse and children under 18 may be included in the same application and all receive Turkish citizenship. Children aged 18 and over must apply separately.
How many countries can a Turkish passport holder visit visa-free?
As of 2025, the Turkish passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, all Gulf states, and many Asia-Pacific nations.
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