Legal Update
Покупка недвижимости в Турции для иностранцев: пошаговый юридический процесс
A practical guide to the legal process of purchasing property in Turkey — from choosing a property to receiving your TAPU title deed, written for foreign buyers.
Sunday, December 1, 2024·By PROJEMLS Legal Team
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Turkey?
Yes. Turkey allows citizens of most countries to purchase real estate freely. As of 2024, nationals of 183 countries are permitted to buy property in Turkey. A few nationalities face restrictions (primarily Cyprus, Syria, and some others — always confirm current rules).
Step-by-Step Purchase Process
Step 1: Property Selection & Due Diligence
- Choose your property through a licensed developer or agency
- Request the title deed extract (tapu senedi) from the Land Registry
- Verify no mortgages, liens, or legal disputes on the property
- Confirm zoning status permits residential use
Step 2: Valuation Report (Ekspertiz Raporu)
As of 2019, a valuation report from a licensed expert is mandatory for foreign buyers. The report:- Must be obtained from a CMB-licensed appraiser
- Is valid for 3 months
- Establishes the minimum declared value for title deed purposes
- Typically costs $200–$400 USD
Step 3: Tax Number (Vergi Numarası)
Obtain a Turkish tax identification number from any local tax office. You can do this in person or via a lawyer's power of attorney. Takes 15–30 minutes.Step 4: Bank Account
Open a Turkish bank account (required for fund transfers). Bring your passport and tax number. Most major banks (Garanti, İş Bankası, Ziraat) accommodate foreign buyers.Step 5: Fund Transfer
Transfer purchase funds in foreign currency to your Turkish bank account. Obtain a Currency Exchange Certificate (DAB) — this documents the foreign currency conversion and is required for citizenship applications.Step 6: Sales Contract (Satış Vaadi Sözleşmesi)
For off-plan purchases, sign a notarized preliminary sales agreement. This protects both parties and can be registered at the Land Registry.Step 7: Title Deed Transfer (TAPU)
- Attend the Land Registry office (Tapu Müdürlüğü) in person or via power of attorney
- Pay title deed fee: 4% of declared value (split or paid by buyer per agreement)
- Property transfers to your name upon completion
- TAPU issued same day
Step 8: Post-Purchase
- Register for municipality tax (emlak vergisi)
- Set up utility connections (water, electric, gas)
- Obtain earthquake insurance (DASK) — mandatory
Key Costs Summary
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title deed fee (tapu harcı) | 4% of property value |
| VAT (KDV) | 1%–18% (may be exempt for foreigners) |
| Notary fees | ~$300–$500 |
| Valuation report | $200–$400 |
| Legal fees | 1%–2% (optional but recommended) |
| Agency commission | 2%–3% + VAT |
Power of Attorney (Vekaletname)
You can complete the entire purchase process without being present in Turkey by granting a notarized power of attorney to a lawyer or trusted representative. The POA must be:
- Notarized in Turkey, OR
- Notarized in your home country and apostilled (Apostille Convention)
Recommended Timeline
A cash purchase of a ready property can complete in 2–4 weeks. Off-plan purchases follow the developer's construction schedule.
Legal Buying Process TAPU Foreign Buyers Guide
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Real estate regulations and tax rules may change. Always consult a qualified Turkish lawyer and tax advisor before making investment decisions.