Two major developments are reshaping Turkey’s citizenship-by-investment program in 2026 — one is already in effect, the other is brewing.
Already in effect (January 2, 2026): Turkey grants visa-free entry to Chinese ordinary passport holders — 90 days per 180-day period for tourism and transit. This is the first time Chinese passport holders have received visa-free access to a G20 country.
Under discussion: The citizenship-by-investment real estate threshold is expected to rise from $400,000 to $650,000 — a 62.5% increase. The holding period may also extend from 3 years to 10 years.
What Has Changed: The Visa Waiver
On January 2, 2026, the Turkish Official Gazette published a presidential decree granting visa-free entry to holders of Chinese ordinary passports. The policy, issued under Article 18 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection, allows cumulative stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
For Chinese investors considering Turkish citizenship, this removes a significant friction point:
- Property viewing — no more visa applications needed to inspect properties
- Portfolio management — fly in for inspections, contract signings, or property management at will
- Post-citizenship travel — move freely between China and Turkey without visa paperwork
What’s Coming: The Price Increase
The $400K threshold has been in place since May 2022 (raised from $250K). Turkey’s Ministry of Interior and the Immigration Office are now pushing for:
| Category | Current | Proposed |
| Real estate investment | $400,000 | $650,000 |
| Holding period | 3 years | 10 years |
| Bank deposit option | $500,000 | Proportionate increase |
| Source of funds review | Basic | Stricter |
The price increase is driven by two factors: the Turkish lira’s continued depreciation (the $400K threshold buys far less real purchasing power than in 2022), and overwhelming application volumes straining the system.
The holding period extension from 3 to 10 years is arguably the more significant change. The 3-year exit was a key selling point — effectively “borrow” $400K for 3 years, recoup it upon sale, keep the passport. Extending to 10 years fundamentally changes the investment calculus.
Why Turkish Citizenship Still Matters
- E-2 Visa to the United States — Turkish citizens qualify for the E-2 investor visa, allowing work and business in the US without EB-5 wait times. This alone makes Turkish citizenship uniquely valuable among second passports.
- Visa-free travel — 127+ countries including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and much of Latin America
- G20 status — Turkey is a G20 economy, adding credibility and stability vs. smaller programs
- Dual citizenship allowed — Turkey does not require renouncing your existing nationality
- 0% capital gains on foreign investments — a recent policy update confirmed no tax on capital gains for foreign investors
Who Should Apply Now
- You need E-2 access to the US — this is Turkey’s irreplaceable value
- You were already considering buying property in Istanbul — the passport is a bonus
- Your children are on an international student track — Turkish passport is recognized
Who can afford to wait:
- You’re uncertain about the property purchase — don’t rush into a bad investment
- You primarily want visa-free travel — other programs may serve you better
- You’d prefer a zero-tax passive income model — Cyprus or Greece may be more suitable
FAQ
Sources: Turkish Official Gazette (January 2, 2026), Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Invest in Türkiye. Price increase figures are proposed and not yet enacted into law.
Not sure which citizenship-by-investment program fits your profile? We offer a €699 personalized strategy report comparing Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, and other options for your specific situation. 📧 globalpropai@foxmail.com