DAB (Döviz Alım Belgesi) in Turkey: What is it, why is it needed, and how to obtain a certificate for TAPU registration

When purchasing real estate in Turkey, foreign citizens must provide a DAB (Döviz Alım Belgesi) —a certificate of purchase of foreign currency. Without this document , the Turkish Land Registry Office (Tapu) has the right to refuse registration of ownership.

In this article we will examine in detail:

• What is a DAB certificate and why is it required?

• who needs to register it,

• How to get DAB through a Turkish bank

• what data does the document contain,

• Do you need a DAB when buying a resale property?

• What to do if the amount in the DAB is less than the value of the property,

• In what currency can the certificate be issued?

What is DAB (Döviz Alım Belgesi)

DAB (Döviz Alım Belgesi) is an official bank document in Turkey that certifies that a foreign buyer:

• introduced foreign currency (EUR, USD, GBP, etc.),

• conducted a foreign exchange transaction through a Turkish bank,

• uses these funds to purchase real estate in Turkey .

This document is required when registering a transaction in Tapu if the payment is made in foreign currency or funds are received from abroad.

The main objective of the DAB is to control foreign exchange transactions, comply with financial legislation and prevent illegal circulation of funds.

Why is DAB mandatory for foreigners purchasing real estate?

Since 2022, Türkiye has tightened controls on foreign exchange transactions related to the real estate market. As a result:

• DAB has become mandatory for all foreign buyers paying for a transaction in a foreign currency;

• the document is required even for a bank transfer from abroad ;

• Without DAB, TAPU processing may be suspended or rejected .

Thus, the mere fact of an international money transfer does not replace the DAB—the certificate confirms the correctness of the foreign exchange transaction in accordance with Turkish law.

What information does the DAB certificate contain?

The standard Döviz Alım Belgesi document includes:

• buyer's full name;

• foreign passport number;

• type of foreign currency (EUR, USD, GBP, etc.);

• amount of currency;

• equivalent in Turkish lira (TRY);

• exchange rate;

• date (and sometimes time) of the operation;

• name and branch of the bank;

• bank seal and signature;

• unique transaction number.

The certificate is typically issued on a single page , on bank letterhead, and entirely in Turkish . Tapu does not require translation.

Who needs a DAB in Turkey?

DAB is mandatory for:

• foreign citizens without Turkish citizenship;

• buyers without a residence permit (RP);

• foreign citizens paying for real estate in foreign currency ;

• Turks permanently residing abroad, if the payment is made in foreign currency.

This concerns citizens:

• EU and EFTA countries,

• Great Britain, USA,

• Middle East countries,

• other states.

Who doesn't need DAB?

A certificate is not required if:

• the buyer is a citizen or resident of Turkey,

• the calculation is carried out entirely in Turkish lira (TRY) ,

• Payment is made from an account in a Turkish bank.

The key criterion is the presence of a foreign exchange transaction .

How to Get DAB (Döviz Alım Belgesi): A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Opening an account in a Turkish bank

A foreigner must have a valid bank account in Turkey. If they don't have one, they must open one in advance.

Step 2. Transferring foreign currency

Foreign currency (EUR, USD, GBP, etc.) is credited to an account in a Turkish bank.

Step 3: Exchange your currency to Turkish Lira (TRY)

In most cases, the bank records the DAB at the moment of currency conversion.

Step 4: Obtaining a DAB certificate

After the exchange, you must request a Belgesi (Döviz Alım Belgesi ). The document is usually issued on the same day .

⚠️ Some banks may request a notarized translation of your passport or additional proof of the source of funds.

Can one DAB be used for multiple properties?

As a rule, no .
One DAB is issued for one transaction and for a specific amount.

There are two possible options:

• separate DAB for each object;

• one DAB for the total amount - if several objects are registered within the framework of one transaction .

The cadastral service strictly verifies:

• amount for DAB,

• the value of the property specified in the contract and application.

What to do if the DAB amount is less than the property value

If the amount stated in the DAB is less than the value of the property , Tapu will not register the title .

In this case it is necessary:

1. deposit additional foreign currency;

2. get a new (or additional) DAB;

3. Provide all documents to Tapu to confirm full payment.

When paying by installments, it is possible to issue several DABs .

Is a DAB required when purchasing resale property?

Yes.
DAB is mandatory for foreigners when purchasing:

• new buildings,

• secondary housing,

• commercial real estate,

• villas and apartments.

The age of the property, the area and the citizenship of the seller are irrelevant.
The only exception is payment in TRY without a foreign exchange transaction.

In what currency can I apply for a DAB?

In practice, Turkish banks prefer:

• EUR — Euro

• USD — US dollar

• GBP — British pound

• CHF — Swiss franc

Less common currencies (AED, RUB, CNY, etc.) are possible, but may entail:

• higher fees,

• delays,

• additional bank verification.

Before transferring funds, it is recommended to check the conditions with the bank .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to issue a TAPU without DAB?
No, if the buyer is a foreigner and the payment is made in foreign currency.

Is DAB required for a remote transaction?
Yes, the format of the transaction (in person or remotely) does not matter.

Is it possible to get DAB in advance?
DAB is issued only after a foreign exchange transaction .

An important conclusion

The Title Deed (Döviz Alım Belgesi) is a key document when purchasing real estate in Turkey by foreigners. Its absence or incorrect amount is one of the most common reasons for delays in TAPU processing.

Competent transaction support allows you to:

• avoid currency mistakes,

• correctly format the DAB,

• register the property right without refusals.

Need help with purchasing real estate and registering a DAB?

Our team provides turnkey support for transactions in Turkey:

• selection of real estate,

• document verification,

• DAB design,

• TAPU registration,

• remote transactions by proxy.

📩 Submit a request — we'll provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation.