Living in Türkiye: the ultimate expat guide

Türkiye offers a wide variety of places to settle, from lively cities to laid-back coastal towns and quiet rural villages. Where you choose to live will depend on your lifestyle, work opportunities, preferred climate, and budget.

Türkiye's major cities:

Istanbul is Türkiye's largest city and a significant cultural and economic hub. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of modern amenities and historical sites. The city is home to a sizeable expatriate community, providing a support network for newcomers. However, the cost of living can be higher compared to other regions.

Ankara, the capital city, is known for its political significance and educational institutions. It offers a more relaxed pace of life compared to Istanbul and is suitable for those seeking a quieter urban environment.

Izmir, located on the Aegean coast, is renowned for its Mediterranean climate, lower cost of living, and a growing expatriate community. The city offers a blend of urban and coastal living, making it appealing for many expatriates.

Türkiye's coastal towns:

For those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle, towns along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are popular choices, offering beautiful beaches, a mild climate, and a slower pace of life. The coast attracts many retirees and digital nomads due to its relaxed atmosphere and lower living costs.

Most visitors to Türkiye will need a visa before arrival, which can be obtained online via the official e-Visa portal. Tourist visas are generally valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on nationality, and can be extended in some cases.

For those planning longer stays, residency permits are mandatory. There are different types of residence permits, including short-term, family, student, and work permits. Applications are submitted online through the government portal.

Documents required for a visa for Türkiye typically include:

1. Valid passport
2. Proof of accommodation
3. Proof of financial means
4. Proof of health insurance

Türkiye has a dynamic labor market with opportunities for expats in several sectors, including:

1. Tourism
2. IT
3. Engineering
4. Health care
5. Education
6. Manufacturing

Expats with expertise in specialized fields may find opportunities with multinational companies or startups in major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.

Foreign investment in Türkiye is encouraged, and the business climate is generally favorable. Starting a company is possible for foreign nationals, who must register with the Turkish Trade Registry and obtain a tax identification number from the Revenue Administration Office.

Key employment facts and figures

Data correct as of October 2025

Sources: Türkiye Today, Turkish Minute,

Choosing the right place to live in Türkiye varies greatly depending on where you want to live, your lifestyle preferences, and your budget. In major cities, you'll find a wide range of apartments, condos, and houses, while coastal and rural areas often offer more spacious or scenic options.

Rental agreements typically require a one-year lease along with a deposit equal to one or two months' rent. Utilities, maintenance fees, and internet are usually billed separately. Expats can search for homes in Türkiye via online platforms, through real estate agents, or with local contacts. It's always best to view properties in person before signing any contract.

When it comes to foreigners buying property in Türkiye, investment is open to citizens of most countries in the world. While the process of purchasing property in Türkiye varies depending on your nationality, only citizens from a handful of countries are restricted: North Korea, Syria, Armenia, Cuba, and Nigeria. Istanbul is the top choice for foreign buyers, and Iraqis are the main investors.

Living costs in Türkiye can vary significantly depending on whether you're in a bustling city, a laid-back coastal town, or a quiet rural area. While rent, food, transportation, and utilities are usually much cheaper than in Western Europe or North America, Istanbul tends to be pricier compared to other parts of the country.

Data correct as of October 2025

Source: Numbeo.

Türkiye's health care system includes both public and private providers. If you have formal employment in Türkiye, or you are self-employed, you can start contributing to Türkiye's Social Security Institution (SGK) and access public health care. Otherwise, you will need private health insurance.

Preventive care is widely available, including vaccinations and routine check-ups. Private hospitals and clinics, especially in major cities, provide high-quality services, often with shorter waiting times than public facilities. Health insurance is mandatory for residency applications in Türkiye and highly recommended for all expats.

Opening a bank account in Türkiye is straightforward for expatriates with valid residency documents. Major banks provide services in English, including debit and credit cards, online banking, and international transfers. And when it comes to paying taxes in Türkiye, you're considered a tax resident if you have lived in the country for more than six months (183 days) in a calendar year or have your 'center of vital interests' (like family, work, property) in Türkiye. Residents are taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on income sourced within Türkiye.

Tips for expats:

Get a Turkish tax ID number early; it's needed not just for banking but also for things like mobile phone contracts and utilities.

Some banks offer expat packages or accounts tailored for foreigners.

Online banking and mobile apps are well-developed and user-friendly in Türkiye.

Türkiye is home to a range of universities and higher education institutions offering programs in Turkish and English. International students can apply to public or private universities, many of which are located in major cities and have strong academic reputations.

Top universities in Türkiye include:

1. Koç University in Istanbul
2. Sabancı University in Istanbul
3. Bilkent University in Ankara

Student visas are required for all non-Turkish nationals and must be applied for at a Turkish embassy or consulate before arrival. To apply for a student visa, you will need:

1. Proof of admission into a university course
2. Proof of health insurance
3. Proof of financial means

Türkiye offers a mix of public, private, and international schools. Public schools follow the Turkish national curriculum and are free for residents, although instruction is mainly in Turkish. Private and international schools offer English or other foreign-language programs and cater to expatriate families. Be mindful that securing a place at an international school in Türkiye can be competitive, especially in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, where demand is high.

Setting up a new life in Türkiye involves more than just choosing a city—it requires careful planning for both practical and cultural adjustments. Expats should plan how to transport their belongings, choosing between sea freight for larger items and air freight for lighter goods. Using a reputable international moving company and keeping detailed inventories helps prevent delays and unexpected costs. Pets also require compliance with vaccination, microchip, and documentation regulations to enter the country smoothly.

Planning a move to Türkiye also means preparing paperwork, understanding visa and residence permit requirements, and arranging logistics such as housing and schooling in advance. Budgeting for shipping costs, temporary accommodation, and potential delays is essential. Expats should research local regulations for importing vehicles, personal electronics, and other valuable items. Gathering information on moving companies, translation services, and legal assistance can help avoid unexpected complications and make the relocation process more efficient.

Life in Türkiye combines modern conveniences with rich cultural traditions. Major cities offer international restaurants, shopping centers, and vibrant social scenes, while smaller towns provide a quieter pace and close community connections. Türkiye is considered generally safe, with standard precautions recommended in urban areas. Understanding local customs, such as greetings, social etiquette, and public behavior, helps expatriates integrate and enjoy daily life. Transportation options include buses, metro systems, and taxis in urban centers, while car ownership is common in smaller towns.

Türkiye offers a rich mix of cultural, outdoor, and sports activities, making it an exciting destination for expatriates. From vibrant city life to tranquil coastal escapes, there is something for everyone. Music and arts thrive in Türkiye, with live performances ranging from Turkish folk music to jazz and rock. Sports fans can enjoy professional football matches, basketball games, and traditional wrestling events, while outdoor enthusiasts have access to hiking trails, beaches, and ski resorts. Social life often includes picnics, barbecues, and community gatherings, reflecting Türkiye's warm and hospitable culture.

Popular leisure and sporting activities in Türkiye:

1. Experiencing live music, theater, and traditional performances.
2. Attending football matches or supporting basketball and volleyball teams.
3. Hiking scenic trails.
4. Visiting beaches along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
5. Skiing and snowboarding in winter resorts
6. Enjoying picnics and barbecues in parks with family and friends.
7. Exploring museums, archaeological sites, and historical landmarks.
8. Shopping in traditional bazaars and modern shopping centers.

Rich in history and full of modern energy, Türkiye offers expats an appealing mix of culture, opportunity, and everyday comfort. From lively cities and coastal resorts to quiet inland towns, each region offers its own pace of life. The cost of living is competitive, and expats benefit from reliable healthcare, a strong education system, and expanding career prospects. Combined with welcoming communities and excellent transport links, Türkiye provides a lifestyle that's both vibrant and practical for those seeking a new start abroad.

For those ready to make the move, success lies in preparation and openness to new experiences. Understanding local regulations, securing the correct visa or residence permit, and arranging key logistics like housing and finances set a solid foundation. Learning a few Turkish phrases and embracing local customs can turn relocation into an enriching journey. With its mix of community, culture, and opportunity, Türkiye offers expats far more than a destination — it offers a new way of life.