What documents are needed to buy an apartment in Turkey?

Buying an apartment in Turkey is a process that requires a clear understanding of the necessary legal and financial documentation. For foreign buyers, having all the correct papers in order from the beginning can make the entire transaction smooth and efficient. Whether you’re looking at a modern flat in Istanbul or a sunny apartment in Mahmutlar, Antalya, here is a comprehensive list of the documents you will need.

1. Passport and Notarized Translation

• Requirement: Your valid passport is the primary identification document you will use for every official step.
• Lifehack: You will need a notarized Turkish translation of your passport. This can be done at a Turkish notary public’s office. It is a quick process, and many real estate agents or lawyers can assist you with this.

2. Turkish Tax ID Number (Vergi Kimlik Numarası)

• Requirement: This is a unique ten-digit number that every individual in Turkey, including foreigners, needs for financial and official transactions.
• How to Get It: You can apply for a tax ID number at any local tax office (Vergi Dairesi) in Turkey. The process is free and typically takes only a few minutes. You just need to show your passport. Alternatively, many real estate agencies and lawyers can obtain this number for you as part of their service.

3. Two Biometric Photos

• Requirement: You will need a couple of recent biometric photos, similar to those used for passport or visa applications.
• Use: These photos are necessary for your official application files and the title deed (tapu) documents.

4. Opening a Turkish Bank Account

• Requirement: This is a crucial step for transferring the purchase money and for future utility payments. All property transactions at the Land Registry Office must be made from a Turkish bank account.
• Documents Needed: To open a bank account, you’ll need your passport, your Turkish tax ID number, and proof of address from your home country (e.g., a recent utility bill).

5. Property Valuation Report (Ekspertiz Raporu)

• Requirement: This is a mandatory document that was introduced to ensure the price declared for the property is fair and to prevent fraudulent transactions. It is prepared by an officially licensed real estate appraiser.
• What it Is: The report officially states the market value of the property. The sale price cannot be lower than the value stated in this report. This report is essential for the final transaction at the Tapu office.

6. The Title Deed (Tapu) of the Property

• Requirement: You will need the original title deed (tapu) of the apartment you are buying. This is provided by the seller.
• What it Is: The tapu is the single most important document, proving ownership of the property. It contains all the legal details of the land and the apartment. Your lawyer or real estate agent will perform due diligence on this document to ensure it is clean and free of any legal encumbrances.

7. Foreign Currency Sales Document (Döviz Alım Belgesi)

• Requirement: This document is required to prove that the foreign currency used for the purchase was converted to Turkish Lira through a Turkish bank. It’s a key part of the title deed transfer process, especially for foreigners.

8. Power of Attorney (if applicable)

• Requirement: If you are unable to be in Turkey to complete the purchase yourself, you can grant Power of Attorney (Vekaletname) to a trusted individual, lawyer, or real estate agent.
• How to Get It: This document is prepared by a notary public. It specifies the authority you give to the person acting on your behalf, such as signing the tapu transfer documents.

The Final Step: The Title Deed Transfer

Once all these documents are in hand, you and the seller (or your authorized representatives) will meet at the local Land Registry and Cadastre Directorate (Tapu Müdürlüğü). The final payment is made, the documents are signed, and the title deed is officially transferred to your name.

By preparing all these documents in advance and, ideally, working with a reputable real estate professional or lawyer, you can make the process of buying your dream apartment in Turkey as straightforward and stress-free as possible.