Elena Mutlu

Over the past decade, Istanbul has transformed — especially in transport accessibility. Having a metro station within a 10–15 minute walk is now a key advantage. The Marmaray commuter rail has been a game-changer, seamlessly connecting the city’s European and Asian sides.

As of 2024, Istanbul has 158 metro stations, with 36 more under construction.

Source: «Property Prices in Turkey in 2026», 28 Sep. 2026

There are a number of real estate projects that are part of the GYO fund and for which an investor does not need to apply for an expertise. This means that if you buy an apartment in such a project for $400,000, it is automatically eligible for the programme. It is difficult for projects to get into the fund, it is a guarantee to get citizenship for investments.

Source: «Residence Permit in Turkey for Buying a Property in 2026», 28 Sep. 2026

We strongly advise against relying on visa runs as a long-term strategy. Since 2023, we’ve seen increased cases of entry refusal for travelers who repeatedly use this method. It’s far more reliable to obtain official status through a residence permit or property ownership.

Source: «Turkey Visa Guide in 2026: Requirements for International Travelers», 03 Dec. 2025