Relocating to Türkiye with children requires a clear understanding of how child residence permits (ikamet) and Turkish citizenship for minors work. Türkiye has become a leading destination for international families due to its strong education system, structured immigration laws, accessible healthcare, and family-oriented lifestyle.
However, the rules for children vary depending on whether parents hold residence permits, own property, work in Türkiye, or apply through the Citizenship by Investment Program.
Yes, but under specific conditions. Türkiye does not grant citizenship automatically to foreign children born in the country. Citizenship is granted when:
Foreign children otherwise receive a residence permit, not citizenship.
No. Türkiye follows jus sanguinis (citizenship by blood), not jus soli (citizenship by birthplace).
This means:
Children of foreign nationals usually receive one of the following types of residence permits.
Family Residence Permit
Issued when parents hold valid residence permits.
Duration: 1-2 years.
Most common option for expat families.
Property-Owner Residence Permit (Tapulu Ikamet)
Parents who purchase real estate worth at least 200,000 USD may obtain residence permits and include their children as dependents.
This is the primary pathway for families relocating through real estate.
Work-Permit-Based Ikamet
Children of foreign employees receive residence permits linked to the parent's employment authorization.
Special Circumstances
Includes humanitarian ikamet, adoption, guardianship cases, and stateless minors.
| Type of Permit | Based On | Duration | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Family Residence Permit | Parent's ikamet | 1-2 years | Expats, long-term residents | Most common and flexible |
| Property-Owner Permit | Real estate worth 200,000 USD+ | 1-2 years | Families relocating through real estate | Children included as dependents |
| Work-Permit-Based Permit | Employment contract | Duration of job permit | Professionals relocating with family | Child linked to parent's legal status |
| Humanitarian / Special | Exceptional cases | Variable | Adoption, guardianship, stateless minors | Requires official approval |
Application Procedure for a Child's Ikamet
Children under 18 become Turkish citizens automatically when included in a parent's application through the Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program.
Parents qualify by:
Children aged 18 to 21
Can sometimes be included if they are:
This detail is important for families with older teenagers.
Education Access
Healthcare
Citizenship provides access to SGK, Türkiye's national healthcare system.
Travel Opportunities
Turkish passport holders enjoy:
Full Civil Rights and Economic Security
A residence permit provides:
For many families, this is the first step toward long-term relocation.
Emergency Healthcare Access
Hospitals cannot deny emergency medical care to a minor.
Recognition of Foreign Guardianship
Apostilled adoption or custody documents are recognized.
Compulsory Education Support
Children living in Türkiye for over a year fall under compulsory education rules, helping avoid administrative issues.
No Income Requirement
Children do not need to show personal income; parents' resources are sufficient.
Insurance Flexibility
Children can be covered under parents' SGK or private policy.
Consistent Registered Address
Frequent address changes may require extra documentation.
Access to Regulated Professions
Aviation, maritime fields, law, and some medical specialties require citizenship.
Real Estate Ownership
Citizens can own property without the regional restrictions that apply to foreigners.
Inheritance Rights
Citizenship simplifies inheritance and ensures long-term legal protection.
Future Generations
Citizenship automatically passes to future children.
Does birth in Türkiye grant automatic citizenship?
No. Citizenship is based on parentage, not birthplace.
Can a child get citizenship if the parents buy property?
Yes. Children under 18 are included in investment-based citizenship applications.
Can a child attend school with only a residence permit?
Yes. Public, private, and international schools are accessible.
Does a child need separate health insurance?
Not in most cases. They are usually covered under parents' SGK or private plans.
Can a minor hold dual citizenship?
Yes, unless restricted by the laws of the child's home country.
Can a child obtain Turkish citizenship independently?
Rare cases include adoption or exceptional long-term residence.
DDA Real Estate assists international families in selecting properties that support long-term residence, education planning and future citizenship pathways. Our team provides clear guidance on suitable districts, school-oriented locations and investment-grade projects that ensure stability for children and long-term value for parents.
Contact DDA Real Estate to receive a tailored portfolio of properties aligned with your family's plans and your long-term objectives in Türkiye.
