The scheme was identified by the Turkish National Police and the Turkish Interior Ministry. Officials said they dismantled an organised crime network that arranged fictitious property sales, enabling foreign nationals and their families to obtain Turkish citizenship without meeting full investment requirements.
The criminal organisation orchestrated a series of sham property sales in which foreign investors either overvalued the real estate or received substantial cash back at title deed offices, thereby circumventing minimum investment thresholds.
According to the country’s Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, the network operated across 19 provinces. Assets seized during the investigation include 1,240 apartment units, 65 land plots, 47 vehicles, and several corporate entities.
The revocation procedures target all 451 investors involved. As the process moves forward, each case will undergo legal and administrative review before final cancellation of citizenship is confirmed. For the investors implicated, revocation may result not only in the loss of citizenship but also in potential civil or criminal consequences depending on each case’s outcome.
How to protect yourself when obtaining citizenship by investment
Many countries offer citizenship or residency by investment programs that grant passports and residence permits through real estate or financial contributions. While legitimate, these programs can attract fraud. To reduce risks, investors must follow several recommendations:
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Work with reliable licensed agents . Verify that agents, lawyers, and developers are authorised and reputable.
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Avoid “cash-back” or “buy-back” offers. Such deals breach program rules and can lead to citizenship revocation.
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Check all documents. Confirm that property valuations, title deeds, and payments are issued through official channels.
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Keep full records. Maintain proof of transfers and contracts to demonstrate compliance.
Careful verification at every stage helps protect investors from financial loss and legal consequences.
