The issue of compulsory military service for naturalized Turkish citizens raises frequent questions among foreigners who obtain citizenship—whether through investment or other legal pathways. While military service is generally mandatory for all male Turkish citizens, Turkish law provides several exceptions and specific regulations that apply to naturalized individuals, especially those who acquire citizenship at a certain age or have already completed military service in their home countries.

This article presents a clear and comprehensive overview of all scenarios, exemptions, and available options as of 2025.

1. Is Military Service Mandatory for Those Who Obtain Turkish Citizenship?

In principle, yes—military service applies to every male Turkish citizen.

However, naturalized citizens are governed by a special legal framework that offers broad exemptions depending on age at naturalization, prior military service, and overall legal status.

2. Cases Where Naturalized Citizens Receive Full Exemption From Military Service

Turkish law provides complete and permanent exemption (100%) in several specific situations, including:

• Individuals who obtained citizenship after the age of 22

If a person receives Turkish citizenship at age 22 or older, he is automatically exempted from military service.
This is the most common exemption applicable to investors who acquire citizenship through investment.

• Individuals who have already completed military service in their home countries

Presenting official proof of completed military service from the country of origin grants full exemption without payment.

Age-Based Exemptions at Naturalization

• Over 30 years old: automatic full exemption.
• Over 40 years old: no procedures are opened at all, and no action is required from the individual.

3. Who Might Be Required to Serve or Pay the Military Service Fee?

This applies only to a small age group:

• Individuals aged 18–21 at the time of naturalization

In this case, the person is not exempted automatically. Instead, he is given three options:

1. Pay the Military Service Fee (Bedelli Askerlik)

This is the most common option for naturalized citizens.
Note: The fee is updated every six months and is currently around 182,000 TL, with potential increases in early 2026.

2. Postpone military service until age 37

Military service can be easily postponed and the individual may later decide to pay the fee.

3. Perform active military service

This is extremely rare for naturalized citizens, and the fee option is almost always accepted.

4. What About Syrians, Iraqis, Iranians, Lebanese, and Other Nationalities?

The same laws apply to all nationalities without exception.

Example: Syrian naturalized citizens (a common question)

• Over 22 at naturalization: full exemption
• Under 22: fee payment option only
• They are almost never required to perform active service.

5. Common Questions Raised by Families

Do naturalized children need to serve in the military?

Children who obtain citizenship while under 18 follow Turkish law once they turn 18.

• If they are over 22 at naturalization: full exemption
• If under 22: they may choose between paying the fee or postponing service

Most families applying through investment have children older than 22, so exemption is typically automatic.

Does paying the military service fee affect civil rights or citizenship status?

Absolutely not.
The fee is merely a financial procedure and has no impact on citizenship or legal rights.

Does the naturalized citizen need to contact the military directly?

No. All procedures are completed through:

• e-Devlet
• Population (Nüfus) directorates
• Turkish consulates abroad

Can citizenship be revoked for not paying the fee?

Citizenship is never revoked for this reason.
The system may only show a temporary status called “Teknik Askerlik Durumu” until payment or postponement is made.

Golden Conclusion for Investors

Military service does not pose any obstacle for those obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment.
Most investors are exempt immediately due to age criteria, and those under 22 can easily pay a modest fee or postpone service without any real obligation.