In 2025, understanding Turkey’s tapu (title deed) and property ownership system has become increasingly important for both foreign investors and Turkish citizens. Having an official title deed is not merely a legal formality—it is the ultimate guarantee of your property rights in one of Europe and the Middle East’s most dynamic real estate markets.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the different types of tapu, how to register a property, transfer ownership, and ensure your investment is secure and legally sound.

What Is a Tapu in Turkey?

The tapu is the official document proving ownership of a property, issued by the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (Tapu ve Kadastro Müdürlüğü).

It includes detailed information such as:

• Property location and total area
• Owner’s name
• Plot and parcel numbers
• Type of property (residential, commercial, agricultural, etc.)
• Official registration date

Having the tapu under your name is the legal foundation for any transaction involving the property—such as sale, lease, inheritance, or obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment.

Types of Property Ownership Certificates (Tapu) in Turkey

• Blue Tapu

Issued for land (unbuilt) properties. It specifies whether the land is for agricultural use or designated for construction.

• Red Tapu

The most common form of title deed. It is issued for residential or commercial properties that are already built and officially registered.

• Shared Ownership Tapu (Hisseli Tapu)

Used when a property has multiple owners, indicating each person’s share or percentage in the ownership.

• Preliminary Ownership Tapu (Kat Irtifakı)

Granted for properties under construction. Once the project is completed and approved, it is converted into a Full Ownership Tapu (Kat Mülkiyeti).

Property Transfer and Registration Procedures

Property ownership in Turkey can only be officially transferred through the Land Registry Office. The main steps include:

• Signing the sales contract between the seller and buyer.
• Submitting an official transfer application to the Tapu Office.
• Providing the required documents:
• Original title deed
• Property valuation report
• ID card or passport
• Turkish tax number
• Paying the title deed transfer tax (Tapu Harcı)—4% of the declared sale price.
• Issuing the new title deed under the buyer’s name.

Following these procedures ensures legal registration of ownership and protects investors from future disputes.

The Role of Tapu in the Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program

An official title deed is a mandatory requirement for obtaining Turkish citizenship through real estate investment.

To qualify:

• The property’s registered value must be at least USD 400,000.
• The investor must pledge not to sell the property for 3 years.
• Any mistake in registration or underreporting the value in the tapu may lead to rejection of the citizenship application. Therefore, it is highly recommended to work with a reliable legal advisor or a trusted real estate firm such as Luxury Signature, which ensures accuracy and compliance throughout the legal process.

Key Legal Tips When Dealing with Tapu

• Do not rely solely on unofficial contracts—always ensure the transaction is registered at the Tapu Office.
• Verify that the property is free from any mortgage, lien, or legal restriction before purchase.
• Make sure the property is registered as “residential” (not “agricultural”) if you intend to live in or rent it.
• Hire a specialized real estate lawyer to review all documents and protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tapu in Turkey

Can foreigners own property and have a tapu in their name?

Yes. Foreigners can purchase and register properties in their own names, provided the property is not located in restricted or military zones.

Can more than one person be listed on the same tapu?

Yes. Through a shared ownership tapu, multiple owners can hold shares in the same property, with each person’s percentage clearly stated.

Conclusion

The tapu is the backbone of all real estate transactions in Turkey. Possessing an official ownership certificate is the only way to legally secure your property rights.

In a rapidly growing real estate market, it is crucial to work with a trusted and experienced firm like Luxury Signature to ensure every legal step—from property valuation to ownership transfer and citizenship application—is handled with precision and confidence.