What Is a Property Title Deed (TAPU) in Turkey? A Complete Guide for Buyers

When buying real estate in Turkey, the most important legal document you will encounter is the Property Title Deed, commonly known as TAPU. This official certificate proves ownership and contains essential information about the property. Understanding the TAPU process is crucial for making a safe and successful investment in Turkey.

What Is a TAPU?

A TAPU is the legal document issued by the Land Registry and Cadastre Directorate in Turkey. It confirms who owns the property and includes detailed information such as its location, type, size, and status. Without a TAPU, the property purchase is not legally complete.

Types of TAPU in Turkey

1. Blue TAPU

The Blue TAPU generally represents land or shared land ownership.
It is used for plots or parcels where construction has not yet been completed or where the property is defined as “land”.

2. Red TAPU

The Red TAPU represents a completed or nearly completed residential or commercial property.
It is issued for apartments, villas, commercial units, and independent sections within a building.

There are also subcategories within Red TAPU depending on the property’s completion status:

• Kat İrtifakı (Construction Servitude / Pre-Completion Title)

• Kat Mülkiyeti (Full Ownership / Completed Property Title)

Key Information Included on a TAPU

A typical TAPU document contains the following details:

• Owner’s full name

• Property’s city, district, and neighborhood

• Parcel, plot, and building numbers

• Property type (apartment, villa, commercial, land, etc.)

• Ownership share percentage

• Mortgage or debt information

• Official stamp and signature of the Land Registry Office

Understanding each section helps buyers avoid misunderstandings and ensures a safe transaction.

How to Transfer a TAPU in Turkey

The TAPU transfer process is handled by the Land Registry Office (Tapu Office).
Here are the main steps:

1. Sales application is submitted by the buyer or seller.

2. Official valuation report is prepared.

3. Tax numbers and ID documents are checked.

4. Payments and taxes are completed.

5. Buyer and seller attend the TAPU appointment with a sworn translator (for foreign buyers).

6. The new TAPU is issued in the buyer’s name.

The entire process usually takes 1–3 days.

Why TAPU Is Important for Foreign Buyers

For foreign property investors, the TAPU is the ultimate proof of ownership in Turkey.
It also plays a key role for:

• Residence permit applications

• Utility connections (water, electricity, internet)

• Rental management

• Future resale transactions

A clean and clear TAPU ensures that your investment is legally safe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Receiving a TAPU

• Not checking whether the property has any debts or mortgages

• Confusing construction servitude (kat irtifakı) with full ownership (kat mülkiyeti)

• Relying on verbal promises instead of official documents

• Not using a sworn translator at the TAPU office

• Not verifying the valuation report

Working with a professional real estate company helps minimize these risks.

Conclusion

The Property Title Deed (TAPU) is the most essential document in Turkish real estate transactions.
By understanding its types, details, and transfer process, buyers can make informed and secure decisions.

If you plan to purchase property in Turkey, make sure you receive the correct TAPU and complete all legal steps with expert guidance.