With the arrival of the second half of November and 2024 budget planning taking shape, the marriage loan proposal has returned to the agenda. A bill proposing the establishment of a “Family and Youth Fund” to provide a two-year grace-period, interest-free marriage loan of 150,000 TRY has been submitted to the Presidency of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey.
Details of the 150,000 TRY Interest-Free Marriage Loan
Under the proposed regulation, engaged couples preparing for marriage would be eligible for an interest-free marriage loan of 150,000 TRY offered with a two-year deferment period. The loan would carry a 48-month (4-year) repayment term and be financed by the Family and Youth Fund.
What Is the Family and Youth Fund?
The Family and Youth Fund is proposed as the financing vehicle to support the marriage loan program and provide financial assistance to couples. The bill establishing the fund was accepted by the Parliamentary Health, Family, Labor and Social Affairs Commission and formally submitted to the Assembly.
Application Process for the Marriage Loan
Although an official application date has not yet been announced, Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş stated that they expect to implement the project before the new year pending parliamentary decisions. Applications are expected to be announced and managed digitally by the Ministry of Family and Social Services.
Who Will Qualify for the Marriage Loan?
While a definitive application text has not yet been published, officials indicate that criteria such as income, age and criminal record will apply. The project will prioritize couples aged 18–27 and will initially be piloted in earthquake-affected regions.
Pilot Regions and Expansion Plans for the Loan
The marriage loan program will begin as a pilot in designated earthquake-affected provinces and is planned to expand nationwide over time. According to AK Party Deputy Group Chair Leyla Şahin Usta, the pilot provinces are Kahramanmaraş, Adıyaman, Hatay and Malatya. Any broader rollout will depend on decisions taken in the Assembly.
Expectations and Updates on the Marriage Loan: Minister Göktaş said the project responds to young people’s needs and confirmed that “all criteria have been established; anyone who meets requirements such as the income and 18–27 age criteria will be able to benefit.” She reiterated plans to launch the initiative before the new year and noted there is no separate age restriction specific to earthquake regions.