Foreigners from over 180 countries can buy property in Turkey under the principle of reciprocity. Ownership is registered through the TAPU — the official Turkish title deed issued by the Land Registry (Tapu ve Kadastro).
The TAPU is everything
The TAPU is the only legally binding proof of ownership. A signed sales contract, a payment receipt, or a developer's brochure are not ownership. Until your name is on the TAPU, you do not own the property. Always insist on TAPU transfer at completion.
What you cannot buy
Foreigners cannot purchase property in designated military or security zones — but those are clearly mapped and never include any zone where international developers operate. Total foreign ownership in a single district is capped at 10% of the area, which is almost never reached.
Power of Attorney (Vekaletname)
You don't need to be physically present to buy. A notarised Power of Attorney lets your lawyer complete the TAPU transfer on your behalf. Use a Turkish lawyer that is independent from the seller.
Mandatory checks before TAPU
- DASK earthquake insurance (mandatory)
- Independent property valuation report (mandatory since 2019)
- Tax number for the buyer (free, takes 30 minutes)
Key takeaways
- TAPU is the only legal proof of ownership
- Foreign ownership is allowed under reciprocity from 180+ countries
- A signed contract is not the same as a TAPU
- Always use a lawyer independent of the seller
- DASK insurance and a valuation report are mandatory