Turkish citizenship is primarily based on the principle of jus sanguinis—citizenship by descent. This means that a child born to a Turkish parent typically acquires Turkish citizenship by birth, regardless of where the birth takes place. However, there are specific conditions, exceptions, and procedures you should know.
Citizenship Through Turkish Parent(s)
According to Article 7 of the Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901, a child automatically becomes a Turkish citizen if:
- At least one parent is a Turkish citizen at the time of birth.
- The child is born within or outside of Turkey.
There is no need for an application in such cases. The birth must simply be registered with the Turkish civil registry (Nüfus Müdürlüğü).
Citizenship by Birth in Turkey to Foreign Parents
In rare circumstances, a child born in Turkey to foreign parents may be granted Turkish citizenship by birth if:
- The child would otherwise be stateless (not acquire citizenship from parents).
- The child has resided in Turkey without interruption until adulthood.
Such applications are evaluated under special provisions by the Ministry of Interior.
Registration and Proof of Turkish Citizenship
If you're claiming Turkish citizenship through your parents, it's essential to register the birth with proper documentation:
- Turkish parent’s ID or passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of residence or domicile (if born abroad)
Can Turkish Citizenship Be Revoked?
In rare cases, Turkish citizenship acquired by birth may be revoked if false documentation or fraudulent declarations were made during registration.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Although acquiring Turkish citizenship by birth is automatic for most, legal issues can arise in cases of undocumented lineage, adoption, or dual nationality. Our Turkish citizenship lawyers can assist with all documentation, applications, and appeals.
Read our previous article: Why You Need a Turkish Real Estate Lawyer When Buying Property in Turkey