How to Buy an Apartment in Turkey and Get a Residence Permit in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide

Turkey remains one of the most attractive destinations for real estate investment. It offers not only competitive property prices but also the opportunity to obtain a residence permit (ikamet) through the purchase of real estate. As of 2025, the minimum property value for obtaining a residence permit must be $200,000 USD as officially stated on the title deed (TAPU). Below is a full step-by-step guide on how to buy an apartment and obtain your residence permit in Turkey.

1. Choose the Right Property and Location

Before making a purchase, clarify your key criteria:

  • City and district – Antalya, Alanya, Istanbul, Belek, or Kemer.
  • Type of property – Apartment in a residential complex, villa, or studio apartment.
  • Budget – From $200,000 USD, if your goal is to qualify for a residence permit.

We strongly recommend working with a licensed and trusted real estate agency that will help you find a suitable property and verify its legal status.

2. Get a Turkish Tax Number (Vergi Numarası)

To purchase property in Turkey, you need a tax identification number, which can be obtained at the local tax office or online at the Turkish Revenue Administration website. Required document:

  • Valid passport (original and copy).

3. Open a Bank Account in Turkey

A Turkish bank account is needed to transfer funds and make payments. You will need the following:

  • Passport
  • Tax number
  • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or residence certificate)

4. Sign the Sales Agreement

Once you’ve chosen the property:

  • Sign a preliminary sales contract with the seller.
  • Pay a deposit (typically 5–10% of the property price).
  • Ensure a legal background check is done on the property.

5. Register the TAPU (Title Deed)

TAPU is the official title deed confirming property ownership in Turkey. To get your TAPU, you will need:

  • Passport and a notarized Turkish translation.
  • Turkish tax number
  • Real estate appraisal report confirming market value
  • Sales contract
  • Government fee (4% of the cadastral value)

The registration process usually takes 3 to 10 business days. Once you have the TAPU, you’re eligible to apply for a residence permit.

6. Apply for a Residence Permit (Ikamet)

After purchasing real estate worth at least $200,000 USD (as per TAPU), you can apply for a Turkish residence permit. Required documents:

  • Passport
  • TAPU (title deed)
  • Tax number
  • Health insurance (valid in Turkey)
  • Receipt of residence permit fee payment

Applications are submitted online via the official platform: e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr. After approval, you will receive a residence permit valid for 1 to 2 years, with the option to renew.

Conclusion

Buying real estate in Turkey is not just a smart investment — it’s also a legal pathway to living in a beautiful and sunny country by the sea. If you’re considering purchasing an apartment and applying for a residence permit, contact us today. Our team will help you find the best property and handle the entire process from start to finish.

📞 Need help buying property in Turkey?

We’ll take care of everything — from selecting the right apartment to securing your residence permit. Get in touch today!

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