Acquiring new citizenship often opens doors to new possibilities, but it also brings certain obligations. For investors considering Turkish citizenship through property investment, a common question is about compulsory military service. Are investors and their children required to serve? Up to what age is this obligation valid, and is deferral an option? In this article, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequent questions on military service in Turkiye.

General information on military service in Turkiye

Military service is compulsory in Turkiye for male citizens aged 20 to 41, with most individuals being called to serve between the ages of 20 and 22.

The typical service period is 6 months for regular servicemen and 12 months for reserve officers and non-commissioned officers. The President may extend or reduce this time by half as required, but service terms will never be shorter than 6 months.

Types of service:

  • Mandatory service (6 months)
  • Short-term service (1 month) with a compensation payment
  • Contract service for those interested in a military career

Options for deferral or exemption:

Health conditions — a deferral of up to 3 years may be granted for medical reasons. If there’s no improvement after this period, the individual could be exempt from service.

Higher education — men who complete a 4-year university degree or an equivalent degree abroad can qualify for reserve officer candidate status.

Employment abroad (compensation required) — to defer service while working abroad, citizens can apply through Turkish embassies and pay a fee.

Additionally, Turkish citizens of conscription age who have completed military service in a country with which Turkiye has a bilateral agreement are also exempt from service.

Currently, Turkiye has such agreements with Tunisia and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Did you know?
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The Turkish Armed Forces rank 13th among the world’s most powerful militaries, as reported by the respected Global Firepower index. With a regular force exceeding 350,000 troops, not counting reserves, Turkiye’s military strength is notable. In NATO, Turkiye’s army ranks second in land forces, following only the United States.

Military service requirements for naturalised citizens

Under Military Service Law No. 7179, foreigners who receive Turkish citizenship before turning 22 are obligated to complete military service. They do have the option to defer this requirement for two years, if preferred.

Exemptions from Turkish military service apply to:

  • Foreign nationals who are 22 years or older at the time of gaining citizenship.
  • Foreign nationals who have already completed military service in their country of origin and can provide supporting documentation.

These rules also extend to the children of investors.

Procedure for military registration

Even those exempt from military service are required to complete a registration process. This is mainly a formality and won’t result in conscription, but it ensures an official exemption certificate.

GOOD TO KNOW:
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Turkiye allows citizens to make an official payment to avoid active service. The fee varies each year, and for 2024, it’s set at 182,608 Turkish Lira (approximately $5,350). Nonetheless, a one-month basic training is still mandatory in this case.

Avoiding military service can lead to serious consequences, including fines and even the risk of losing citizenship. Therefore, it’s essential to follow all procedures and obtain the necessary documentation if eligible for deferral or exemption.

The role of military service in society and career paths

Serving in the Turkish military offers social benefits and earns respect within the community. For instance, it’s seen as a mark of honor and prestige, offering advantages in the job market.

Professional soldiers in Turkiye can retire earlier than other citizens, have access to various organisational benefits, earn competitive salaries, and are entitled to a “green” passport for travel abroad.

Conclusion

For those who obtained Turkish citizenship through investment and are over 22, military service is not a concern. However, it’s crucial to follow all formal steps to obtain an official exemption.

Keep in mind that laws may evolve, so consulting with legal professionals specialising in Turkish immigration law is highly recommended for the latest and most reliable information.

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