Relocating to Turkey has become increasingly popular among Europeans and American expats seeking a new life in this vibrant and culturally rich country. While the process may seem daunting, this guide provides all the essential information you need to make your move to Turkey smooth and successful.
Handling Finances
Start by deciding on a budget and sticking to it. Given the fluctuating value of the Turkish Lira, it’s advisable to secure your income from your home country. For money transfers, services like Wise and Western Union are reliable options.
Opening a Turkish bank account is essential for managing your finances and paying bills. Some of the notable banks in Turkey include Garanti Bank, Is Bank, and Akbank.
Acquire Property (Rent or Buy?)
The next step is to acquire property. If you’re unsure about your long-term plans, renting a property initially is a good idea. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the area before making a commitment to buy.
Rent prices can be affordable, especially outside city centers, but expect higher prices if you choose a property in the heart of the city.
Apply for Residency
Turkey allows tourists to stay for up to 90 days on a tourist visa. If you plan to stay longer, applying for a residence permit is mandatory. You can also explore long-term residency options by purchasing property in Turkey. For more details, read our blog on Residency by Investment.
Move Your Belongings
Once you have secured your accommodation, you’ll need to decide whether to bring your belongings from your home country or buy new ones locally. Shipping items can be costly due to potential customs taxes, so purchasing locally-made goods at lower prices might be more economical.
If you’re bringing pets, make sure their vaccinations are up-to-date and that all necessary paperwork is completed.
Purchase a Mobile Phone
Expats can use their own mobile phones, but registering foreign phones can be expensive. It’s often more practical to buy a new phone locally and get a sim card from a local provider like Turkcell or Turk Telekom.
Obtain Health Insurance
Health insurance is crucial, especially since it’s required for your residence permit application. You can start with private health insurance and then apply for SGK government insurance once you’ve obtained your residence permit.
Find a School for Your Children
For expats relocating with children, schooling in Turkey offers two main options: public schools or private English-speaking schools with international curriculums. Public schools may be better suited for children planning to pursue higher education in Turkey.
Understand Turkish Culture
To truly enjoy your new life in Turkey, take time to understand the culture and socialize with the locals. Turkish people are known for their hospitality and are generally welcoming to expats.
Don’t limit yourself to one area; Turkey is diverse, with unique landscapes and cultures to explore. Whether or not you speak Turkish won’t be a barrier, especially in tourist areas where many locals speak English.
Ready to make Turkey your new home? At Aegean Locations, we specialize in helping expats find the perfect property in Turkey. Our team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth transition. Contact us today to start your journey towards living in Turkey!