Foreign Ownership of Agricultural Land in Turkey: Legal Restrictions and Opportunities

• Foreign ownership of agricultural land is subject to both size and location restrictions. For instance, the total area that a foreign individual or company can own cannot exceed 30 hectares across the country. Additionally, ownership is prohibited in areas classified as military zones or other strategic locations.

• Foreign nationals are limited to owning no more than 30 hectares of land in Turkey. The Ministry of Environment and Urbanization has the authority to increase this limit under certain conditions but does so rarely.

• Foreign investors are prohibited from purchasing land in strategic areas, including military zones, border regions, and certain coastal areas. These restrictions are aimed at protecting national security.

• Even if foreign investors meet the ownership criteria, they must comply with local agricultural zoning laws. For instance, foreign owners are required to cultivate the land and use it for its designated agricultural purposes within two years of purchase.

• Turkey’s agricultural sector is highly diverse, with opportunities in crop production, livestock farming, and agribusiness ventures. Foreign investors can benefit from Turkey’s rich soil, favorable climate, and access to key markets.

• Foreign investors can take advantage of Turkey’s strategic location, bridging Europe and the Middle East. Owning agricultural land in Turkey provides access to both domestic and international markets, particularly in sectors such as organic farming and export-oriented agriculture.

• Turkey offers several incentives for foreign investors in the agricultural sector, including tax exemptions, subsidies, and investment support programs. These programs are designed to encourage modernization and efficiency in agricultural production.

• Foreign investors must submit several documents when applying to purchase agricultural land, including proof of identity, a land use plan, and approval from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

• The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry must approve the sale of agricultural land to foreign nationals, ensuring that the land will be used for agricultural purposes. This approval process can take several months, and failure to use the land within two years may result in its forfeiture.

• Once approved, the foreign investor must complete the land registration process through the local Land Registry Office and pay applicable taxes, including the property transfer tax and annual land taxes.

• Recent amendments to Law No. 2644 have streamlined the process for foreign investors to purchase agricultural land, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and encouraging foreign investment in key agricultural regions.

• These changes are expected to increase foreign interest in Turkey’s agricultural sector, particularly in high-value crops and sustainable farming practices. However, stricter environmental regulations have also been introduced to protect Turkey’s natural resources.

Foreign ownership of agricultural land in Turkey presents significant opportunities for investors, particularly in the booming agricultural and agribusiness sectors. However, foreign nationals must navigate a complex legal framework with strict limitations on land size, location, and use. Understanding these legal restrictions and the opportunities available will help foreign investors make informed decisions and comply with Turkish laws.