Citizenship by Marriage in Turkey: It’s Not Automatic, It’s a Legal Process

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marrying a Turkish national is a common path to citizenship, but contrary to popular belief, it does not grant immediate rights. The process requires a minimum of three years of marriage and a rigorous investigation to prove that the union is genuine and not a "sham marriage" for immigration purposes.

The "Genuine Union" Test 

The Turkish authorities conduct thorough background checks and interviews. Couples are often asked detailed questions about their daily lives to verify they are living together in a family union. A discrepancy in answers can lead to a rejection based on "lack of family unity." Furthermore, the foreign spouse must not have a criminal record that poses a threat to public order.

Why Professional Support Matters 

Preparing for the interview and compiling the necessary dossier—which may include proof of shared residence, joint bank accounts, and family photos—is critical. An experienced Turkish citizenship lawyer guides couples through this scrutiny, preparing them for interview questions and ensuring the application file is watertight before it reaches the commission.