You aim to get Turkish citizenship? Not so easy anymore

Türkiye has introduced stricter regulations for foreigners seeking citizenship, requiring thorough security checks by national security agencies and multiple clearances from Interpol.

Heightened security measures

The new measures, outlined by Ibrahim Tasyapan, director general of Population and Citizenship Affairs, mandate that applicants undergo rigorous investigations by the Turkish National Police and the National Intelligence Organization (MIT). Citizenship applications will be denied if either agency raises security concerns.

“One of the most critical steps in granting Turkish citizenship is the security investigation conducted by the Police and MIT,” Tasyapan said during a presentation to the Turkish Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Commission. “If these agencies do not provide a positive opinion, the citizenship process will not proceed.”

Interpol verification and marriage restrictions

In addition to national security checks, applicants must now obtain two separate clearances from Interpol. The first check occurs at the application stage, and the second is conducted several months later to identify any emerging risks.

To combat illegal immigration, the Turkish Ministry of Interior has directed provincial authorities not to accept marriage applications from foreigners without legal residency in Türkiye. For instance, Morocco requires its citizens’ marriage applications to be verified by its consulates or embassies.

These new regulations aim to prevent individuals involved in criminal activities from obtaining Turkish citizenship.