BES for Turkish Citizenship (2026): 10 Key Legal Questions Answered by a Lawyer

Introduction

BES for Turkish citizenship has become one of the most structured and legally predictable investment routes for foreign investors applying for Turkish citizenship by investment in 2026.

Although BES (Private Pension System) is often promoted as a simple and penalty-free investment, it is in fact a citizenship-linked legal commitment that must be properly structured from the outset.

In this article, we answer the 10 most frequently asked legal questions about BES for Turkish citizenship, based on current Turkish legislation and practical experience.

1. Is BES for Turkish citizenship legal?

Yes.BES is explicitly regulated under the Implementation Regulation of the Turkish Citizenship Law as a qualifying investment route.

To apply:

• A minimum investment of USD 500,000 equivalent must be made through BES

• The investment must be maintained for at least 3 years

2. Are BES funds state-guaranteed?

The BES system is:

• Supervised by SEDDK

• Custodied by Takasbank

However:

• The system is state-regulated

• Investment returns are not guaranteed

3. Which BES funds are eligible for citizenship?

Only citizenship-eligible BES funds may be used.

Choosing an ineligible fund may result in:

• Failure to obtain the eligibility certificate

• Rejection of the citizenship application

  
  

4. Can BES funds be changed during the investment period?

Yes. Investors may change BES funds up to 12 times per year, making BES a more flexible option compared to real estate or bank deposits.

5. What happens if you exit BES before 3 years?

Early exit from BES does not result in any financial or contractual penalty.

However:

• The Turkish citizenship application is cancelled

• If citizenship has been obtained, a violation of investment conditions occurs and legal consequences may arise

  
  

At the same time:

• The investor may exit without penalty

• Earned profits are paid after 15% withholding tax on gains only

• The BES balance can be fully liquidated

Early exit means waiving the citizenship right, not a financial punishment.

6. Is there tax on BES investments?

Yes.Upon exit:

• 15% withholding tax applies only to profits

• No tax is applied to the principal amount

  
  

7. Which currency is used for BES investment?

BES investments are typically made in Turkish Lira (TRY) after converting foreign currency in accordance with Central Bank regulations.

8. Can family members obtain citizenship through BES?

Yes. The main applicant’s:

• Spouse

• Children under 18

may obtain Turkish citizenship without additional investment.

9. BES vs Bank Deposit vs Real Estate

From a legal perspective, BES offers:

• Lower operational risk

• Higher flexibility

• A clearer exit mechanism

The best option depends on the investor’s personal situation and objectives.

10. Most common mistake in BES citizenship applications

Making the BES investment before legal structuring and compliance checks.

BES is not just a financial product; it is a citizenship-based legal commitment.

Conclusion

In 2026, BES for Turkish citizenship remains one of the most balanced and legally predictable investment routes—when properly structured and professionally managed.