Turkey offers large tracts of fertile land for agriculture and investment—but buying agricultural land as a foreigner is subject to legal restrictions. Whether you're planning a farm, greenhouse, or long-term investment, you must comply with zoning laws, land use permits, and foreign ownership regulations. At ER&GUN&ER, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers provide full legal support to foreigners acquiring agricultural land across Turkey. This guide explains how to buy agricultural land legally and safely under Turkish law.
Can Foreigners Buy Agricultural Land in Turkey?
Yes—with conditions. Foreign individuals and companies may purchase agricultural land in Turkey, but additional approval is required from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and sometimes the General Staff (MGK), especially in sensitive areas. Our team verifies each parcel before contract to avoid future cancellation.
To understand the difference between residential property and farmland, see our guide on buying property in Turkey.
Legal Limitations on Agricultural Land for Foreigners
- Maximum 30 hectares per person or entity across Turkey
- Cannot exceed 10% of land area in any district (ilçe)
- Must receive use permit from authorities within 2 years
- Property must not be in military/security-restricted zones
We check all zoning plans (imar planı) and issue an official legal opinion before your deposit is paid.
Step-by-Step Purchase Process
- Find a parcel zoned for agriculture (ask for zoning plan)
- Issue Power of Attorney (POA) to your lawyer for full process management
- Apply for military clearance (askeri yasak bölge sorgusu) and agricultural use approval
- Get SPK-certified valuation report
- Execute title deed transfer (Tapu) after approval and payment of 4% transfer tax
Do I Need a Lawyer to Buy Agricultural Land?
Yes. Unlike residential purchases, agricultural land requires ongoing coordination with multiple government bodies. Our Turkish law firm ensures every permit, inspection, and legal obligation is met. See also our article on how to check a title deed in Turkey before investing in land.
Post-Purchase Requirements
- Begin usage (farming, greenhouse, planting) within 2 years
- Register activity with local Agricultural Chamber (Ziraat Odası)
- If no activity is declared, property may be confiscated or resold by the state
Can Agricultural Land Be Inherited by Foreigners?
Yes. See our property inheritance guide for more on Tapu transfer and taxation. Heirs may continue to hold or sell the land, subject to Ministry approval.
Examples from Our Legal Practice
- 🇩🇪 German client purchased 15,000 m² vineyard in İzmir—all permits approved within 8 weeks
- 🇬🇧 British investor bought agricultural parcel in Muğla—used for licensed organic olive production
- 🇺🇸 U.S. couple inherited farmland near Bodrum—title transferred with POA and tax exemption granted
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I build a house on agricultural land? Only if zoning allows. We advise on real estate due diligence for each parcel.
- Can I use agricultural land for tourism? Not without conversion. Use must match permit.
- Is there capital gains tax if I sell? Yes—standard rules apply. See our real estate tax guide.
- Can I apply for citizenship by buying farmland? No. Only residential/commercial properties worth $400,000+ qualify. See our citizenship by investment guide.
- What happens if I don’t start farming? Ministry may revoke usage rights or block future sales.
- Can I lease agricultural land to someone else? Yes. Lease contracts must be registered and match intended land use.
- Do I need to declare agricultural income? Yes. Rental or harvest income must be reported for tax purposes.
- Can I resell the land to another foreigner? Yes—if district cap and zoning rules allow. We handle resale compliance checks.
Conclusion: Grow Your Investment Legally and Safely
Agricultural land offers great potential in Turkey—but only when acquired with legal precision. From zoning confirmation to Tapu transfer and usage permits, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers guide foreign investors through each step. Contact the Best Lawyer in Turkey to secure your land, comply with regulations, and make your farmland investment fruitful in every sense.