Turkey (TR)
Turkey is a transcontinental nation straddling Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait, uniting 85 million people under a rich civilisational heritage stretching from the ancient Hittites and Romans to the Byzantine Empire and Ottoman Empire.
Capital: Ankara
Region: Europe
Language: Turkish
Currency: TRY (₺)
Cost of living: Very affordable (index 35)
Emergency: 112
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Time: 15–30 minutes · Cost: Free
Deadline: Day one — before any other financial or administrative task
Risk if missed: Without VKN you cannot open a bank account, sign a notarised rental contract, purchase property, register for utilities, start formal employment, or conduct formal financial transactions. All integration tasks depend on this number.
Where to go: Any Vergi Dairesi (tax office) in Turkey. In Istanbul: major Vergi Dairesi offices in Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, Şişli, and other districts. Find your nearest office at ivd.gib.gov.tr. Alternatively, VKN can sometimes be obtained online via ivd.gib.gov.tr if you have a Turkish phone number for SMS verification.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid passport (original)
- ✓ No other documents required for a standard VKN application
Tip: The VKN process is fast and simple — just walk into any Vergi Dairesi with your passport and ask for "yabancı vergi kimlik numarası." The staff process this routinely. Store the VKN number securely — you will need it on almost every Turkish form and document. Note: the VKN is separate from the YKN (Yabancı Kimlik Numarası) you receive with your ikamet permit — both are useful for different purposes.
Local institution: Vergi Dairesi (Tax Office)
Time: 30–60 minutes online or in person · Cost: Free application. Security deposit TRY 2,000–5,000 possible.
Deadline: On moving in
Risk if missed: Living without utilities. Service disconnected from previous tenant.
Where to go: BEDAŞ: bedas.com.tr. AYEDAŞ: ayedas.com.tr. İSKİ: iski.gov.tr. İGDAŞ: igdas.com.tr. Or in person at branch offices.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ VKN
- ✓ DASK certificate
- ✓ Rental contract
- ✓ Previous account reference (if transferring)
Tip: Photograph meter readings on move-in day. Set up direct debit (otomatik ödeme) to avoid missed payments. Enerjisa and CK Enerji offer fixed-price electricity contracts as a hedge against inflation.
Time: 15–30 minutes to arrange · Cost: TRY 1,500–5,000/year depending on property size, location, building age, and Istanbul vs. other regions. Istanbul premium for a standard apartment: approximately TRY 2,000–3,500/year.
Deadline: Before utility registration and upon moving into any property
Risk if missed: Cannot connect utilities (electricity, gas, water) to your name. No earthquake damage coverage. Landlords without DASK may face penalties. The mandatory nature of DASK means authorities can check compliance.
Where to go: Purchase DASK from any insurance agent (sigorta acentesi), Turkish bank, or directly at dask.gov.tr. Any insurance company authorised for DASK can issue the policy — Axa, Allianz, Ziraat Sigorta, Güneş Sigorta, and most others. Very quick to arrange.
Documents needed:
- ✓ UAVT (Ulusal Adres Veri Tabanı) building code or Tapu (title deed) of the property
- ✓ VKN or YKN for the policyholder
- ✓ Property details (floor area, building age, construction type)
Tip: If renting, ask your landlord to show you the current DASK certificate. A DASK certificate should be no more than 1 year old. Renters can optionally purchase their own contents insurance (ev eşyası sigortası) separately — DASK only covers the building structure, not contents. When comparing prices, the premium depends heavily on the building's construction year — post-2018 buildings (built to updated seismic code) attract lower premiums.
Local institution: DASK — Doğal Afet Sigortaları Kurumu (Natural Disaster Insurance Institution)
Time: 5 minutes · Cost: Free
Deadline: Within first week of employment
Risk if missed: No social security accrual. Loss of future pension entitlements. Unemployment benefit void.
Where to go: e-Devlet → SGK Tescil ve Hizmet Dökümü.
Documents needed:
- ✓ e-Devlet access
Tip: Check your SGK registration monthly via e-Devlet for the first 3 months. If not registered, demand your employer rectify immediately — this is a criminal offence for the employer.
Local institution: SGK — Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu
Time: 1–2 hours to compare and purchase · Cost: TRY 5,000–25,000/year depending on age, coverage level, and insurer (approximately €140–700/year at current rates). Younger applicants (under 40): TRY 5,000–10,000/year for basic coverage.
Deadline: Before submitting İkamet İzni application
Risk if missed: İkamet İzni application rejected or incomplete without valid health insurance documentation. You also have no medical coverage while uninsured in Turkey — private hospital treatment can cost TRY 10,000–100,000 per episode.
Where to go: Compare Turkish private health insurance at sigortam.net or aksigortam.com.tr. Major providers: Acibadem Sağlık Sigortası, Allianz Sağlık, Axa Sağlık, Generali Sigorta, Groupama, Eurasia Sigorta. Can be purchased online or through any insurance agent (sigorta acentesi).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport or YKN for the insurance application
- ✓ VKN (required by Turkish insurers)
Tip: Purchase Turkish private health insurance rather than relying solely on international insurance — Turkish insurers are more readily accepted at major private hospitals (Acıbadem, Memorial, Florence Nightingale) without cashless billing complications. Choose a plan with direct billing (anlaşmalı hastane) so you do not pay upfront and claim later. Compare plans at sigortam.net. Check that the coverage period at least matches your intended ikamet duration.
Local institution: Sigorta Şirketi (Insurance Company)
Time: 15 minutes · Cost: TRY 500–3,000/year depending on m² and zone
Deadline: Before utility connection or rental contract notarisation
Risk if missed: Cannot connect utilities. Notary refuses rental contract. No coverage in event of earthquake (Turkey sits on multiple active fault lines — real risk).
Where to go: Any Turkish insurance company: Anadolu Sigorta, Allianz Türkiye, AXA Sigorta, or bank branches (most banks sell DASK).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Title deed (tapu) or rental contract
- ✓ VKN
- ✓ Building UAVT address code
Tip: DASK is basic coverage only — covers structural damage up to a state-set limit (TRY 1,834,000 in 2026). Top up with private earthquake insurance for furniture/contents. Annual renewal is required.
Local institution: DASK — Doğal Afet Sigortaları Kurumu
Time: 30–60 minutes at the noter · Cost: TRY 500–1,500 (noter fee for rental contract authentication)
Deadline: Before submitting the İkamet İzni application
Risk if missed: İkamet İzni application may be rejected without a notarised rental contract. Address registration may fail. Without the noted contract, your position in rental disputes is weakened.
Where to go: Any noter (notary office) in Turkey. Find your nearest noter at noterlikkanunu.com.tr. In Istanbul: noters are present in every district. Many noters in central districts (Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, Beşiktaş) have some English-speaking staff.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Rental contract (kira sözleşmesi) — can be prepared by the noter or brought pre-drafted
- ✓ Both tenant and landlord passports or identity documents
- ✓ VKN for both parties
- ✓ Property details (address, area)
Tip: The noter contract also creates a legal record protecting your tenancy rights — in Turkey, the 25% annual rent increase cap (TÜFE-linked increase) applies more clearly when the rent is formally documented. Bring both your passport and VKN to the noter appointment. The entire process is quick — most noters can handle a rental contract without an appointment in larger cities.
Local institution: Noter (Notary Office)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Online application: 1–2 hours. Appointment waiting: 1–3 months in Istanbul. Processing after appointment: 30–60 days. · Cost: TRY 15,000–35,000+ in 2026 (Harç permit tax + TRY 964 değerli kağıt bedeli card fee; nationality-dependent, indexed to inflation — most Western nationals pay ~TRY 31,000 for a 12-month permit). Plus private health insurance: TRY 3,000–8,000/year from a Turkish insurer.
Deadline: Apply well before your 90-day visa-free period expires — ideally in the first 2 weeks of arrival given Istanbul backlogs
Risk if missed: Overstaying your 90-day visa-free period results in a deportation order (deport kararı), a re-entry ban (usually 1–5 years depending on overstay duration), and fines. Your future Turkish residency and citizenship applications will be compromised.
Where to go: Apply online at e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr first to book your appointment. Then attend the appointment at your local Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü. In Istanbul, the main offices are in Fatih and Sarıyer — your appointment will be assigned based on your registered address district.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid passport (with at least 60 days validity beyond intended permit duration)
- ✓ Passport-style photographs (biometric, white background)
- ✓ Valid health insurance (private insurance accepted — must cover Turkey for the permit period)
- ✓ Notarised rental contract (kira sözleşmesi — must be notarised at a noter for İstanbul applications)
- ✓ Bank statements or proof of financial means (approx. USD 500/month minimum)
- ✓ VKN (tax number)
- ✓ Application fee payment receipt (TRY 964 card fee (değerli kağıt bedeli) + Harç permit tax; total typically TRY 15,000–35,000+ for a 12-month permit depending on nationality — check e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr for current amounts)
- ✓ Completed application form from e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr
Tip: Book your appointment at e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr as soon as you arrive — Istanbul appointments fill fast. While waiting, you can make a "border run" (crossing into another country and re-entering) to reset your 90-day clock once as a bridge, but this is not guaranteed to work and does not replace the permit application. Use a licensed immigration lawyer (avukat) for your first application if you find the process complex — the fee is reasonable and saves time. Keep digital and physical copies of your permit at all times.
Local institution: Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü (Directorate of Migration Management)
Deadline: Within 20 days of any address change
Risk if missed: Fine and permit complications
Where to go: e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr
Risk if missed: SIM deactivated within 30 days if not registered
Where to go: Turkcell, Vodafone TR, or Türk Telekom store
Time: 1–2 hours · Cost: Free (copies TRY 50)
Deadline: Within 30 days of birth
Risk if missed: Late registration fine. Cannot apply for family reunification ikamet for baby, or passport from home country.
Where to go: Any Nüfus Müdürlüğü — find via nvi.gov.tr.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Hospital birth notification
- ✓ Both parents' passports and ikamet cards
- ✓ Marriage certificate (apostilled)
- ✓ MERNIS application form
Tip: Get multiple apostilled copies for home country embassy and future school enrolment. Baby needs own ikamet within 30 days of birth.
Local institution: Nüfus Müdürlüğü
Time: Employer registration: should happen automatically. Self-employed/GSS: 1–3 hours at SGK office. · Cost: Employed: employee SGK contributions approximately 15% of gross salary (automatically deducted). Self-employed Bağ-Kur: minimum contributions approximately TRY 3,000–4,500/month (2026 — based on minimum wage). GSS: income-tested — low-income individuals pay minimal or nothing; standard rate TRY 300–1,500/month.
Deadline: Employed: from first day of work (employer obligation). Self-employed: within 30 days of starting business.
Risk if missed: Unregistered employment is illegal (kayıt dışı — informal economy) with penalties for employers. Without SGK or GSS, you have no public health coverage, no pension accumulation, and no work injury protection. Unregistered periods cannot be backdated for pension calculations.
Where to go: Employed: employer registers you — verify at e-Devlet. Self-employed: apply at local SGK Müdürlüğü (Provincial Directorate). GSS: apply at local SGK Müdürlüğü. Online SGK transactions also available at sgk.gov.tr.
Documents needed:
- ✓ YKN (Yabancı Kimlik Numarası)
- ✓ Employment contract (for employer-initiated SGK registration)
- ✓ For self-employed Bağ-Kur: business registration documents
- ✓ For GSS application: proof of income, YKN, ikamet permit
Tip: Check your SGK registration status on e-Devlet (SGK Tescil Talebi sorgusu) within the first month of employment. If your employer has not registered you, this is a serious red flag — report to the Çalışma Bakanlığı (Ministry of Labour). For self-employed people: the minimum Bağ-Kur contribution is mandatory but gives access to the full SGK health system and pension accrual. For expats on private health insurance already: still consider SGK/GSS for long-term pension rights if planning to stay 5+ years.
Local institution: SGK — Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu (Social Security Institution)
Time: 30–60 minutes · Cost: TRY 1,500–3,500 (split between parties typically)
Deadline: Before ikamet appointment
Risk if missed: Ikamet rejected. Unenforceable lease.
Where to go: Any noter — find at tnb.org.tr. Most areas have walk-in service.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Both parties' passports/ID
- ✓ Tapu (title deed) of landlord
- ✓ Draft rental contract
- ✓ DASK certificate
Tip: Refuse landlords demanding payment entirely in cash without a contract. Rental contract should record TRY amount — not USD/EUR — per Turkish currency law. Landlord must declare the income (15–40% income tax).
Local institution: Noter
Time: 1–2 hours · Cost: Vet: TRY 500–1,500. Municipal dog registration: TRY 200–500/year.
Deadline: Within 30 days of arrival
Risk if missed: Municipal fines. Pet may be seized.
Where to go: Municipality (Belediye) for local registration. Vet for microchip check.
Documents needed:
- ✓ EU Pet Passport or health certificate
- ✓ Microchip
- ✓ Rabies vaccination record
- ✓ Titre test (most countries)
Tip: Istanbul has many street dogs/cats — the 2024 street animals law changed policies; check current vaccination/sterilisation campaigns. Excellent English-speaking vets in Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, Cihangir.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–3 hours · Cost: State: free. Private Turkish: TRY 80,000–300,000/year. International: USD 10,000–30,000/year.
Deadline: Enrolment window typically March–June for September start
Risk if missed: No school place. Child placed at distant school.
Where to go: e-Okul portal (eokul.meb.gov.tr) for state schools. Direct contact with international schools.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Child's birth certificate and ikamet card
- ✓ Parents' ikamet cards
- ✓ Vaccination records
- ✓ Previous school reports (apostilled + translated)
- ✓ Proof of address
Tip: Istanbul international schools with long reputations: British International School, MEF International, İstanbul International Community School, Robert College (elite and selective).
Where to go: Your local Nüfus Müdürlüğü (Population Directorate) office — find nearest at nvi.gov.tr
Local institution: Nüfus ve Vatandaşlık İşleri Genel Müdürlüğü (NVİ)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Where to go: Local MEB-affiliated school
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30–90 days for initial work permit processing · Cost: Employer-paid fees: TRY 1,000–3,000 in government fees. Your cost: apostille and translation of documents (TRY 1,000–3,000 depending on quantity).
Deadline: Before starting any paid work in Turkey
Risk if missed: Working without a valid Çalışma İzni is illegal and results in: fines for both employer and employee, deportation of the employee, and a re-entry ban. The employer faces administrative closure in severe cases. There is no grace period for working without a permit.
Where to go: Employer applies online at yabancicalismaizni.csgb.gov.tr. The permit is processed by the Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı (Ministry of Labour). Applicant does NOT attend in person — employer handles the application. You may need to visit the Turkish consulate in your home country for the initial entry visa if applying from abroad.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employment contract
- ✓ Notarised and apostilled copies of diplomas/qualifications
- ✓ Passport (notarised Turkish translation)
- ✓ Criminal record certificate (apostilled)
- ✓ Photographs
- ✓ Employer must provide: tax registration, trade registry certificate, company financials, minimum 5:1 Turkish:foreign employee ratio documentation
Tip: The 5:1 Turkish:foreign employee ratio is often the biggest obstacle for small companies — verify your employer can meet this requirement before accepting a job offer. Turquoise Card (Türkiye Mavi Kart) is available for highly skilled professionals — this grants permanent work rights equivalent to a Turkish citizen. Seasonal and academic positions have different permit categories. If your employer is a licensed company with a proven track record, the application is generally straightforward. Ask your employer's HR team to confirm the timeline.
Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı — work permits Yabancı Çalışma İzni — online application portal
Local institution: Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı (Ministry of Labour and Social Security)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours for registration. Quarterly geçici vergi filing: 1–2 hours each. · Cost: Free to register. Mali müşavir (accountant) fees: TRY 3,000–10,000/month for ongoing accounting support.
Deadline: Before issuing any freelance invoice or receiving any self-employment income.
Risk if missed: Unregistered freelance income = tax evasion. Fines: up to 3× the evaded tax. SGK back-contributions + penalties. Risk of deportation for working without a valid permit.
Where to go: Your local Vergi Dairesi (tax office) for initial registration. Online: dijital.gib.gov.tr (Dijital Vergi Dairesi with e-Devlet login).
Documents needed:
- ✓ VKN (Vergi Kimlik Numarası) — obtain first if not yet registered
- ✓ Valid İkamet İzni (residence permit)
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Proof of Turkish address
- ✓ E-Devlet / Dijital Vergi Dairesi login
- ✓ Bağımsız Çalışma İzni (Independent Work Permit) for non-EU nationals
Tip: Turkey's serbest meslek erbabı system requires issuing numbered receipts (serbest meslek makbuzu) for every client payment — these must be pre-approved/formatted. Digital receipts via e-Arşiv are now available. Engage a mali müşavir (licensed accountant — SMMM or YMM) from day one — Turkish tax regulations change frequently and the accountant fee is a deductible business expense.
Local institution: GİB — Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı (Vergi Dairesi) (Revenue Administration — Tax Office)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30–60 minutes online; appointment 30–60 minutes · Cost: ~TRY 5,000–8,000 (varies by permit duration and nationality)
Where to go: Apply online at e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr. In-person appointment at your provincial İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current ikamet izni card and passport
- ✓ Valid rental agreement or property ownership deed
- ✓ Health insurance (valid in Turkey)
- ✓ Bank statements showing sufficient funds
- ✓ Two biometric photographs
- ✓ Application fee payment receipt
Local institution: İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü (Provincial Migration Management Directorate)
Where to go: Any licensed veterinarian (veteriner hekim) for registration and health records; Belediye (municipality) for dog licensing
Local institution: Tarım ve Orman Bakanlığı / Veteriner Hekim
Time: Automatic — part of the ikamet process · Cost: Included in ikamet İzni fee
Risk if missed: Without YKN, access to e-Devlet services is limited. SGK registration, some banking services, and government interactions require the YKN. Keep the physical ikamet card safe.
Where to go: YKN is assigned by Göç İdaresi when your ikamet permit is processed. Your permit card is typically sent to your registered address by PTT (Turkish post). Track the permit card dispatch at e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr.
Documents needed:
- ✓ İkamet İzni application already submitted (YKN is issued as part of the permit)
- ✓ No separate application needed — YKN is automatically assigned with the permit
Tip: Once you receive your ikamet card with YKN, register it at e-devlet.gov.tr to access all online government services. If you have a VKN already, they serve different purposes — VKN is for tax/financial transactions, YKN is for identity/social security/government services. In many contexts (like SGK registration), you will need the YKN specifically. Your YKN number starts with 99 for foreigners.
Local institution: Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü (Directorate of Migration Management)
Time: 2–6 hours · Cost: Free to file. Tax rates 15–40% (2026 brackets).
Deadline: 31 March each year (for previous year)
Risk if missed: Penalty + interest. Special fines for late filing (TRY 3,000+).
Where to go: dijital.gib.gov.tr or Vergi Dairesi.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Annual income records
- ✓ Expense receipts
- ✓ VKN
- ✓ e-Devlet login
Tip: Engage a Turkish mali müşavir (certified accountant) if you have complex income (TRY 5,000–15,000/year fee). Turkey's tax system has frequent changes — a local accountant saves money.
Local institution: GIB — Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı
Time: 10–15 minutes at the PTT office · Cost: TRY 2 (nominal fee for the password printout)
Deadline: As soon as you have your YKN (residence permit card)
Risk if missed: Without e-Devlet access you cannot check SGK contribution records, access e-Nabız health records, query government documents, track ikamet status online, or use many digitalised Turkish government services. Manual alternatives are time-consuming.
Where to go: Any PTT (post office) branch in Turkey. Show your YKN and passport and ask for "e-Devlet şifresi" (e-Government password). The password is printed immediately. Then activate at edevlet.gov.tr.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid YKN (Yabancı Kimlik Numarası — from your ikamet card)
- ✓ Passport (for identity verification at PTT)
- ✓ Turkish mobile phone number (for SMS verification)
Tip: After receiving your PTT password, visit edevlet.gov.tr and log in with your YKN and the password. Set up the e-Devlet mobile app for easier access. Key services to check immediately: SGK Tescil Talebi (verify your social security registration), e-Nabız setup for health records, and İkamet İzni sorgulama (residence permit status). e-Devlet is entirely in Turkish — use Google Chrome auto-translate for non-Turkish speakers.
Local institution: PTT / e-Devlet (Turkish Post Office / e-Government Portal)
Time: 30–90 minutes at the branch · Cost: Free to open. Monthly fees: TRY 0–100 depending on bank and account type. ATM withdrawals: usually free at own bank ATMs.
Deadline: Within the first 2 weeks — needed for rent payment, utilities, and salary receipt
Risk if missed: Without a Turkish bank account, you cannot pay rent electronically (landlords rarely accept cash for full rent), receive salary, pay utility bills, or use most Turkish financial services.
Where to go: Garanti BBVA (Garanti Bankası): any branch; most expat-friendly, English app. Akbank: any branch; strong English mobile app. İşbank: well-established with wide ATM network. Ziraat Bankası: government-backed, useful for some transactions. Alternatively, get a Papara account (papara.com) with just your passport and VKN.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid passport
- ✓ VKN (Vergi Kimlik Numarası — tax number)
- ✓ İkamet İzni or ikamet application confirmation (improves approval chances)
- ✓ Turkish mobile phone number (required for SMS authentication)
- ✓ Proof of Turkish address (rental contract, utility bill)
Tip: Bring your VKN and passport to the bank branch — phone them ahead to confirm if any additional documents are needed for non-residents. Try Garanti BBVA first (most consistently foreigner-friendly). If refused, try Akbank or attempt in a different branch — policies vary. For an immediate digital solution, register for Papara (no-branch neobank) while you wait for the main bank account. Note: opening a USD or EUR account alongside a TRY account is possible at most banks and advisable for expats who receive income in hard currency.
Local institution: Banka (Bank)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours initial DTT review. Annual tax return: 2–4 hours or with mali müşavir. · Cost: Free to file. Mali müşavir (accountant): TRY 5,000–15,000 for cross-border pension return.
Deadline: Annual Gelir Vergisi return due 31 March each year for the previous calendar year.
Risk if missed: Double taxation without treaty relief. Late filing fines: TRY 3,000+ + interest. Turkish tax authority cross-references foreign bank accounts and pension data through OECD information exchange.
Where to go: GİB — dijital.gib.gov.tr for online filing. Local Vergi Dairesi for in-person support.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Foreign pension award letter and annual pension statement
- ✓ Double tax treaty between Turkey and source country (available at gib.gov.tr)
- ✓ Turkish VKN (Vergi Kimlik Numarası)
- ✓ Annual Gelir Vergisi Beyannamesi (income tax return)
Tip: Turkey's tax residency threshold is 183 days — if you stay less, you are non-resident and only Turkish-source income is taxable. Many retirees structure stays carefully around this. The Turkish lira's volatility means the TRY amount of your foreign pension fluctuates significantly — understand whether the DTT uses the exchange rate at payment date or year-end. Engage a SMMM-registered mali müşavir specialising in expat taxation.
Local institution: GİB — Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı (Revenue Administration — Tax Authority)
Time: 20–30 minutes for SIM; 15 minutes online IMEI. · Cost: Starter pack TRY 200–400. Monthly plan TRY 300–600. IMEI fee TRY 54,258.
Deadline: 120 days from first entry with the device
Risk if missed: Phone blocked on all Turkish networks. Must buy a local handset or pay IMEI fee with surcharge.
Where to go: Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom stores nationwide. IMEI registration: gtb.gov.tr online after arrival stamp.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Turkish address (can be hotel initially)
Tip: Travellers on short trips under 120 days don't need IMEI registration. Only bring one handset to register — family members using your Wi-Fi hotspot avoid the cost. Turkcell has best coverage in rural areas.
Local institution: Turkcell / Vodafone / Türk Telekom
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Exchange: 1–2 weeks. Full test (if required): 1–3 months including lessons and waiting for test date. · Cost: Licence exchange: TRY 500–1,500. Full driving test: TRY 5,000–15,000 including lessons and test fees.
Deadline: 6 months from arrival
Risk if missed: Driving with an invalid foreign licence after 6 months is illegal. Fines apply. Insurance may be void in an accident.
Where to go: Driving licence exchange: Emniyet Müdürlüğü (traffic department) in your district. Some provinces have dedicated licence exchange offices. Turkish driving test (if required): any licensed sürücü kursu (driving school).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current valid driving licence (original)
- ✓ YKN and İkamet İzni
- ✓ Passport (with notarised translation if non-Latin-alphabet licence)
- ✓ Passport photographs
- ✓ Medical certificate (if required — sağlık raporu)
Tip: Check whether your country has a bilateral agreement with Turkey at the Emniyet Genel Müdürlüğü website. If you rarely drive in Turkey (Istanbul's public transport is excellent for most areas), this may be low priority. If you need to drive regularly outside Istanbul or in Anatolia, prioritise this. HGS (highway toll transponder) is needed for Turkish motorways — purchase at petrol stations or post offices.
Local institution: Emniyet Müdürlüğü / Sürücü Kursları (Police Directorate / Driving Schools)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2 hours at border · Cost: Temporary: free. Permanent: 45–105% of vehicle value in duties.
Deadline: 2 years temporary max; permanent registration after
Risk if missed: Heavy customs fines. Vehicle seizure.
Where to go: Gümrük (customs) for temporary import at entry point. Emniyet for permanent registration.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Vehicle registration
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Ikamet
- ✓ Insurance
Tip: Consider selling in origin country and buying a Turkish-registered car. Used car market is active but inflated. Electric vehicles have lower duty rates.
Local institution: Gümrük / Emniyet
Where to go: Nearest Migros, BİM, or A101; find nöbetçi eczane at nobetcieczane.org
Time: 20 minutes at PTT + 10 minutes online setup · Cost: Free
Where to go: Any PTT post office for first-time şifre. Login at turkiye.gov.tr.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Ikamet card (YKN)
- ✓ Passport
Tip: Install the e-Devlet mobile app. Many employers and landlords may request e-Devlet-verified documents (SGK registration printouts, address certificates). Chrome auto-translation handles Turkish acceptably.
Local institution: e-Devlet
Where to go: yoksis.yok.gov.tr
Where to go: e-devlet.gov.tr or İl Sosyal Hizmetler Müdürlüğü
Time: 30–60 minutes to open an account · Cost: No minimum contribution. Government matching: 30% of contributions up to approximately TRY 264,240/year (to receive the maximum state match of TRY 79,272/year in 2026). Administrative fees: typically 0.5–2% per year.
Risk if missed: Missing the 30% government match is leaving significant free money unclaimed. Given the TRY volatility risk, choosing USD/EUR-denominated funds within BES is critical for expats.
Where to go: Open a BES account at: Garanti Emeklilik (garanti-emeklilik.com.tr), Axa Hayat ve Emeklilik, MetLife Emeklilik, Allianz Hayat ve Emeklilik, or through your Turkish bank. Most banks offer BES through their affiliated pension company.
Documents needed:
- ✓ YKN (Yabancı Kimlik Numarası)
- ✓ Turkish bank account (for contribution transfers)
- ✓ Passport
Tip: Choose funds that hold USD/EUR-denominated assets or global equities within your BES account — TRY-only bond funds will lose real value over time due to Turkey's structural inflation. The 30% government match makes BES one of the best pension matches in the world. If leaving Turkey: you can surrender the BES account after 1 year — the government matching may be partially retained depending on how long you held the account. Ask about the holding period requirements before committing.
Local institution: BES Şirketi (Garanti Emeklilik, Axa, MetLife, Allianz) (Private Pension Company)
Time: 30 minutes at airport · Cost: Free (commission deducted from refund)
Where to go: Istanbul Airport and Ankara Esenboğa airport VAT refund counters (Global Blue, Planet).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Original receipt with VAT invoice
- ✓ Purchased items unused
Tip: Request "tax-free invoice" at checkout. Useful for electronics and luxury goods before establishing residency.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 15 minutes · Cost: Conversion spreads typical 0.5–2%
Where to go: Your Turkish bank branch or mobile banking app.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Existing TRY account
- ✓ Source of funds for currency conversion
Tip: Keep 3–6 months expenses in FX for stability. Watch out for "KKM" (FX-protected TRY deposits) — scheme was phased out in 2024. Do NOT convert salary to USD until after you receive it (the BDDK rule on export earnings).
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30–60 minutes · Cost: Minimum contribution typically TRY 500–1,000/month
Where to go: Any Turkish pension provider — list at egm.org.tr.
Documents needed:
- ✓ VKN
- ✓ Turkish bank account
- ✓ Ikamet card
Tip: The 30% state contribution is one of the best deals in Turkish finance. Stay enrolled 10+ years to avoid early withdrawal penalties. Compare fund management fees — some providers charge 1.5–2%+.
Time: 15 minutes to register · Cost: Free with SGK coverage. Copayment for some services: TRY 10–50.
Risk if missed: Without an Aile Hekimi, access to the free public health system is indirect — you must go directly to emergency services (acil) for all needs, which is less efficient.
Where to go: Find your local Aile Sağlığı Merkezi via the MHRS website (mhrs.gov.tr) or the MHRS app. Alternatively, visit the Aile Sağlığı Merkezi in your neighbourhood directly.
Documents needed:
- ✓ YKN (Yabancı Kimlik Numarası)
- ✓ İkamet İzni card
- ✓ SGK registration confirmation (if employed)
Tip: Even if you primarily use private health insurance, registering with an Aile Hekimi gives you access to free prescriptions and referrals to public hospitals. The MHRS app (available in Turkish only) is the easiest way to book appointments. e-Nabız connects to your SGK health record and allows you to share records with any doctor in Turkey.
Local institution: Aile Sağlığı Merkezi (Family Health Centre)
Time: 30 minutes · Cost: Free with SGK
Where to go: Nearest Aile Sağlığı Merkezi (ASM) found via e-Nabız portal.
Documents needed:
- ✓ SGK registration
- ✓ e-Nabız access
- ✓ Passport/ikamet card
Tip: Private hospitals (Acıbadem, Memorial, American Hospital, Koç Healthcare) offer faster English-speaking care. Private consultation TRY 1,500–3,500 out of pocket without insurance.
Local institution: Aile Sağlığı Merkezi
Time: 10 minutes · Cost: Free
Where to go: enabiz.gov.tr or app stores.
Documents needed:
- ✓ e-Devlet credentials
Tip: Share e-Nabız QR code with any doctor to give immediate access to your history. Enable 2FA on e-Devlet for security.
Time: 5 minutes · Cost: Free
Where to go: Save to phone now.
Documents needed:
- ✓ None
Tip: 112 operators usually speak basic English in Istanbul/Ankara/Antalya; limited English elsewhere. Knowing "yardım" (help), "acil" (emergency) helps.
Time: 10 minutes per booking · Cost: Free booking (services covered by SGK)
Where to go: mhrs.gov.tr or 182 hotline.
Documents needed:
- ✓ YKN (ikamet)
- ✓ SGK registration
Tip: Private hospitals (Acıbadem, Memorial, Anadolu Sağlık) book via own systems — not MHRS. Popular specialists book out 2–4 weeks ahead on MHRS.
Time: 15 minutes · Cost: Free
Where to go: Track via bank statements.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Rental contract
- ✓ Bank transfer receipts
- ✓ DASK
Tip: Rent cap legislation is in effect through 2026 — landlords cannot exceed the TÜFE-linked cap without tenant agreement. Dispute via Sulh Hukuk Mahkemesi (peace civil court) if landlord demands more.
Time: Property purchase: 1–4 weeks once a property is selected. Citizenship processing: 3–6 months after application. · Cost: Minimum USD 400,000 property purchase. Additional costs: 4% tapu harcı (title deed tax), legal fees (USD 3,000–8,000), ekspertiz raporu (TRY 3,000–8,000), citizenship application fee.
Risk if missed: If you sell the property within 3 years, the citizenship is revoked. Ensure the property valuation genuinely meets the USD 400,000 threshold at the official exchange rate — the Central Bank's (TCMB) official rate applies, not market rates.
Where to go: Property purchase: Tapu Kadastro Müdürlüğü (Land Registry) for the tapu transfer. Citizenship application: Göç İdaresi Genel Müdürlüğü (goc.gov.tr). Appoint an immigration lawyer to manage the citizenship application process.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Property purchase contract (at least USD 400,000)
- ✓ SPK-approved ekspertiz raporu (valuation report from licensed appraiser)
- ✓ Tapu (title deed) with 3-year sales restriction annotation
- ✓ Bank transfer receipts confirming payment was made via Turkish bank
- ✓ Criminal record certificate (apostilled from home country)
- ✓ Birth certificate (apostilled)
- ✓ Biometric photographs
- ✓ Valid passport
Tip: Use an independent lawyer — never rely solely on the selling agent's recommended lawyer. The lawyer should conduct a full Tapu due diligence (mortgage check, lien check, earthquake compliance). Verify the ekspertiz raporu is from an SPK (Capital Markets Board) licensed appraiser — unlicensed reports are not accepted. Istanbul, Antalya, and other major cities are the most common markets. Post-2018-seismic-code buildings are preferable for both safety and resale value.
Göç İdaresi — citizenship by investment Tapu Kadastro Genel Müdürlüğü WebTapu — online property enquiry
Local institution: Tapu Kadastro Genel Müdürlüğü / Göç İdaresi (Land Registry / Migration Management)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–3 hours to compile; processing 1–3 months · Cost: ~TRY 5,000–8,000 application fee
Where to go: Apply at your provincial İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü. goc.gov.tr for forms.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport and all previous ikamet izni cards
- ✓ Proof of 8 years continuous legal residence
- ✓ Health insurance valid in Turkey
- ✓ Bank statements/income proof showing self-sufficiency
- ✓ No social assistance declaration
Local institution: İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü (Provincial Migration Management Directorate)
Time: 30 minutes · Cost: TRY 500–2,500/year
Where to go: Any Turkish insurance company or bancassurance at your bank.
Documents needed:
- ✓ DASK policy
- ✓ VKN
- ✓ Rental contract or title deed
Tip: Istanbul's ageing building stock means water damage from pipes is a frequent claim. Liability section covers accidental damage to neighbours — very useful in dense apartment blocks.
Where to go: TÖMER (tomer.ankara.edu.tr) — branches in major cities; Halk Eğitim Merkezi (free/subsidised, find via meb.gov.tr); private schools such as Dilmer, Istanbul Education Center
Local institution: TÖMER / Halk Eğitim Merkezi
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours · Cost: Noter simple will: TRY 2,000–5,000. Lawyer drafted: TRY 10,000–30,000.
Where to go: Noter (for public will — resmi vasiyetname) or Turkish lawyer.
Documents needed:
- ✓ List of Turkish assets
- ✓ Beneficiaries' ID
- ✓ Passport
Tip: If you own Turkish property: Turkish will essential to avoid lengthy estate process. Turkey applies its own succession rules to Turkish real estate regardless of nationality (EU Succession Regulation does not override).
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–8 weeks · Cost: Tapu harcı (transfer tax): 4% of declared value. Notary + legal: TRY 15,000–40,000. Ekspertiz: TRY 8,000–15,000.
Where to go: Tapu ve Kadastro Müdürlüğü — appointment via tkgm.gov.tr.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ VKN
- ✓ Ekspertiz raporu (official valuation)
- ✓ DASK certificate
- ✓ Military clearance (askeri izin) — takes 2–4 weeks
Tip: Use a qualified Turkish real estate lawyer — buying scams target foreigners. Declared value must match official valuation (TCMB fixed exchange rate) for citizenship programme eligibility. Many citizenship-eligible developments in Istanbul (Başakşehir, Beylikdüzü) and Antalya.
Local institution: Tapu ve Kadastro Müdürlüğü
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks · Cost: Capital TRY 50,000 (can be 25% paid up) + legal/notary TRY 30,000–80,000.
Where to go: MERSİS portal (mersis.gtb.gov.tr) + Ticaret Sicili Müdürlüğü chamber.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Articles of association (esas sözleşme)
- ✓ Founder ID/passport notarised
- ✓ Apostilled company documents (if foreign founder)
- ✓ MERSİS submission
Tip: Engage a Turkish accountant from day one — Turkish bookkeeping is complex and heavily regulated. Quarterly VAT (KDV) returns + monthly SGK + annual corporate tax. Many expat entrepreneurs use a bookkeeping firm (TRY 10,000–40,000/year).
Local institution: Ticaret Sicili Müdürlüğü
Time: 15 minutes · Cost: Free
Where to go: Your embassy website — most offer online registration.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Turkish address
Tip: Save embassy emergency number in phone. Turkey is in a seismically active region — embassies coordinate evacuation during major quakes.
Time: 30–60 minutes · Cost: Free
Risk if missed: Some ikamet permit processes and public service registrations require official address registration. Without it, accessing healthcare via Aile Hekimi and some school enrollment processes may be complicated.
Where to go: Local Nüfus Müdürlüğü (Civil Registry Office) in your district. Also possible via e-Devlet for some address updates.
Documents needed:
- ✓ YKN (Yabancı Kimlik Numarası) or ikamet card
- ✓ Notarised rental contract or proof of property ownership (Tapu)
- ✓ Passport
Tip: Having a notarised rental contract (noter onaylı kira sözleşmesi) is essential for address registration — a plain landlord-signed contract is typically insufficient. The noter notarisation costs TRY 500–1,500 and takes 30 minutes. This is also required for the ikamet permit application itself, so arrange it early.
Local institution: Nüfus Müdürlüğü (Civil Registry Office)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours consultation · Cost: TRY 3,000–8,000 consultation
Where to go: Consult a Turkish tax adviser.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport travel history
- ✓ Evidence of economic ties
Tip: Use Turkey's double-tax treaty network (90+ countries) to avoid double taxation. Foreign tax credits can offset Turkish tax on foreign income. Plan strategically if you have non-Turkish pension, investment or business income.
Time: 5 minutes · Cost: Card TRY 165. Each journey TRY 42 (standard adult, as of Feb 2026).
Where to go: Any metro station ticket machine, kiosks near stops, or istanbulkart.istanbul.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Any ID for registered card. Anonymous card requires no ID.
Tip: Register the card to your name via İstanbulkart app for lost card protection and student/senior discounts. The transfer discount gives 5 journeys within 2 hours at reduced prices.
Local institution: İETT / Metro Istanbul
Time: 20 minutes · Cost: HGS sticker TRY 50 + balance. OGS device TRY 150 + balance.
Where to go: Any PTT office, Shell/BP/OPET stations, or ptt.gov.tr online.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Vehicle registration
- ✓ TRY 50–200 top-up
Tip: HGS sticker is simpler for occasional use. OGS transponder is for frequent motorway users. Balance checked via HGS/OGS app. Unpaid tolls trigger PTT fines.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Where to go: Your local Sosyal Yardımlaşma ve Dayanışma Vakfı (SYDV) — find at sosyalyardimlar.gov.tr
Local institution: Sosyal Yardımlaşma ve Dayanışma Vakfı (SYDV)