Turkish Citizenship vs. European Golden Visa Programs: Which is Better in 2025?

When it comes to obtaining a second passport or residency through investment, many foreign investors compare Turkish Citizenship by Investment with popular European Golden Visa programs such as those in Greece, Portugal, and Spain. While both options provide excellent opportunities, there are key differences that make Turkey stand out in 2025.

1. Investment Threshold

• Turkey: Minimum $400,000 real estate purchase.

• Greece: €250,000 (recently increased in certain areas).

• Portugal: €500,000 in real estate or other investment routes.

• Spain: €500,000 in real estate.

Turkey remains one of the most affordable routes to full citizenship.

2. Citizenship vs. Residency

• Turkey: Direct path to full citizenship (passport) in 4–6 months.

• Golden Visa (Europe): Provides residency only, with citizenship possible after 5–10 years of residence.

3. Residency Requirement

• Turkey: No obligation to live in Turkey before or after citizenship.

• Golden Visa: Requires physical presence (minimum stay days per year) to maintain residency.

4. Global Mobility

• Turkey: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 110+ countries, including Japan, South Korea, Singapore.

• European Golden Visa: Residency in an EU country, allowing free movement within the Schengen Zone.

5. Family Inclusion

Both Turkey and European programs allow investors to include:

• Spouse

• Children under 18

• (In some cases) dependent parents

6. Processing Time

• Turkey: 4–6 months for citizenship approval.

• Europe: 6–12 months for residency card approval, citizenship after several years.

Key Takeaway

If your priority is fast-track citizenship and a powerful second passport, Turkey offers a quicker and more affordable solution in 2025.If your goal is long-term residency and Schengen mobility within Europe, then Golden Visa programs may be more suitable.