Turkish Citizenship & the Language Requirement: What You Need to Know
24 Jun 2026 · 3626 views

Turkish Citizenship & the Language Requirement: What You Need to Know

Turkey's citizenship by investment program has attracted thousands of applicants worldwide. But many applicants are surprised to learn that a Turkish language interview is part of the naturalisation process.

What Level Do You Need?

Applicants for standard naturalisation (after 5 years of residence) are expected to demonstrate basic to intermediate Turkish — roughly A2 to B1 level on the CEFR scale. This means you should be able to:

  • Introduce yourself and your family
  • Talk about your work and daily life
  • Understand questions from the interviewing officer
  • Respond clearly and relevantly

How Long Will Preparation Take?

Starting from zero, reaching A2–B1 comfortably takes most learners 6–12 months of structured study. Starting early is strongly recommended — waiting until your application is filed creates unnecessary stress.

How HeyTurk Can Help

We offer a dedicated Turkish for Citizenship preparation track, designed specifically for naturalisation applicants. Our teachers know exactly what interviewers expect and will make sure you're confident on the day.