Turkey introduces secure payments for property sales: regulatory change from May 2026

A new regulatory phase for real estate transactions

Turkey is preparing a significant regulatory change that will affect both domestic and foreign participants in the real estate market. Starting from May 1, 2026, the Ministry of Trade plans to make the Secure Payment System mandatory for property sales. This mechanism has already been successfully implemented in second-hand vehicle transactions and is now being extended to real estate deals.

How the secure payment system will function

Under the new rules, the transfer of funds will be strictly synchronized with the transfer of property ownership. When payment is made in cash, by bank transfer, or via electronic funds transfer, the amount will be processed through a secure payment infrastructure. The funds will be held until the official registration of ownership is completed, after which they will be automatically released to the seller.

Why the reform was deemed necessary

According to the Ministry of Trade, property transactions in Turkey are often settled directly between buyers and sellers. This practice increases the risk of fraud, document forgery, underreported sale prices, and tax evasion. Large cash transactions also expose both parties to theft and other criminal risks, particularly in major cities and popular investment destinations.

Legal framework and implementation timeline

To introduce the system, amendments to the Regulation on Real Estate Trade have been drafted and submitted for consultation to relevant public institutions and sector representatives. The authorities aim to finalize the text after collecting feedback. If approved as planned, the mandatory use of the secure payment system will take effect on May 1, 2026.

Market impact and implications for foreign buyers

Analysts believe the reform will significantly improve transparency in Turkey’s real estate market and reduce transaction risks. This is particularly relevant for foreign investors, who often face legal and procedural challenges when purchasing property. The new system is also expected to curb underpriced transactions and strengthen fiscal discipline across the sector.

As reported by experts at International Investment, the introduction of mandatory secure payments for real estate transactions marks a decisive step toward aligning Turkey’s property market with European standards and enhancing investor confidence in the country’s real estate sector. At the same time, one should not forget about the ongoing devaluation of the Turkish lira and rental restrictions, which are offsetting the income from investing in Turkish real estate for foreigners.