Turkey, straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, is a vibrant country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes. If you are considering making this country your new home, this guide by Advance moves will walk you through the essential steps on how to move to Turkey.
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1. Research and Planning
Understand Why You Want to Move
Before embarking on this journey, clarify why you want to move to Turkey. Is it for work, study, retirement, or a change in lifestyle? Understanding your motives will help you navigate the legal and logistical requirements more effectively.
Learn About Turkey
Immerse yourself in information about Turkey’s culture, language, climate, and cost of living. Join online forums, watch documentaries, and read travel guides to get a realistic picture of life in Turkey.
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2. Visa and Residency Requirements
Tourist Visa
For short visits, many nationalities can obtain an e-Visa online, allowing stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Work Visa
If you plan to work, you’ll need a job offer from a Turkish employer who will apply for your work permit. Once approved, you can apply for a work visa at the Turkish consulate in your home country.
Student Visa
Those planning to study in Turkey must first be accepted by a Turkish educational institution, which will then provide the necessary documents for a student visa application.
Residency Permit
For stays longer than 90 days, you must apply for a residence permit. This process involves submitting an application through the Directorate General of Migration Management’s (DGMM) online system, attending an appointment, and providing documents like your passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
3. Financial Preparation
Cost of Living
Research the cost of living in various Turkish cities. Istanbul, for instance, is more expensive than smaller cities like Izmir or Antalya.
Banking
Opening a bank account in Turkey is relatively straightforward. You’ll need your passport, tax number (which can be obtained from the tax office), and proof of address.
Currency Exchange
Understand the exchange rate and how it impacts your finances. The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
4. Housing
Finding Accommodation
Websites like Sahibinden, Hurriyet Emlak, and Expatriates.com are popular for finding rentals. Consider using a real estate agent for more convenience.
Buying Property
Foreigners can buy property in Turkey, except in military zones. Ensure you have a reputable lawyer to guide you through the process.
Rental Agreements
Rental contracts typically last one year. Ensure you understand the terms, including rent increases, deposit return, and maintenance responsibilities.
Advance moves can save you time and money on removal costs.
Using the Advance Moves quick quote system can significantly save you time and money when moving house Internationally. Just click on the link for your instant online quote and then compare quotes from up to the 5 best removal companies already pre-selected to match your moving requirements. Get the best deals on international removals today.
5. Healthcare
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for obtaining a residence permit. You can opt for public insurance through SGK (Social Security Institution) or private insurance companies.
Healthcare Facilities
Turkey has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. Private hospitals generally offer a higher standard of care and shorter waiting times.
6. Language and Integration
Learning Turkish
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning Turkish will greatly enhance your experience and integration. Consider enrolling in language courses or using language learning apps.
Cultural Integration
Participate in local events, join expat groups, and make Turkish friends to better understand the culture and lifestyle.
7. Education
Schools
If you have children, explore international schools in Turkey, which follow different curricula, including British, American, and IB programs.
Universities
Turkey has numerous universities that offer programs in English, catering to international students.
8. Employment
Job Market
Research job opportunities in your field. Websites like Kariyer.net and LinkedIn are useful for job hunting.
Work Conditions
Understand the working conditions, average salaries, and employee rights in Turkey.
9. Moving Your Belongings
Shipping Services
Consider international shipping companies for transporting your belongings. Compare prices and services to find the best option.
Customs Regulations
Familiarize yourself with Turkish customs regulations to avoid any issues when bringing your belongings into the country.
10. Settling In
Registering with Local Authorities
Once you arrive, you must register your address with the local Nüfus Müdürlüğü (Population Directorate).
Community Involvement
Engage with the local community by joining clubs, volunteering, or participating in social activities.
Learning how to move to Turkey involves understanding the visa and residency processes, financial preparation, housing options, healthcare, language, education, and employment opportunities. Thorough research and careful planning will help ensure a smooth transition to your new life in this fascinating country.
Read another advance moves blog on moving house internationally.
Customs Regulations for Moving House to Turkey
When moving your household belongings to Turkey, it is crucial to understand the customs regulations to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to move to Turkey with your household items:
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1. Importing Personal Belongings
Temporary Importation
If you have a residence permit or a work visa, you can temporarily import your household items without paying customs duties. This is valid as long as your permit or visa is valid.
Permanent Importation
For permanent importation, items must be used personal effects and have been owned and used for at least six months before shipment. New items are subject to customs duties.
2. Required Documents
To move your belongings to Turkey, you will need:
- Passport: A copy of your passport with your residence permit or work visa.
- Inventory List: A detailed inventory list of all items being shipped, preferably in Turkish and notarized.
- Residence Permit: A valid Turkish residence permit.
- Bill of Lading/Airway Bill: A shipping document provided by your shipping company.
- Rental Agreement or Property Title: Proof of your residence in Turkey.
- Work Permit: If applicable, to show employment in Turkey.
3. Customs Procedures
Arrival of Goods
Your goods must arrive within six months of your arrival in Turkey. You should be present when your items arrive to assist with customs clearance.
Customs Clearance
- Temporary Import: Your items will be temporarily cleared, and you will not need to pay duties as long as you remain in Turkey legally.
- Permanent Import: For permanent importation, your items will be inspected by customs, and you may be required to pay duties on new or undeclared items.
Import Limits and Prohibitions
- Duty-Free Items: Personal items such as clothing, books, and kitchenware are generally duty-free.
- Prohibited Items: Certain items like firearms, narcotics, and specific electronic devices may be restricted or prohibited.
- Restricted Items: Some items may require special permits, such as antiques or large quantities of alcohol.
Visa and Residency Requirements to Live in Turkey
Understanding the visa and residency requirements is essential for those planning how to move to Turkey. Here’s an in-depth look at the process:
1. Types of Visas
Tourist Visa
- Eligibility: Citizens of many countries can apply for an e-Visa online, allowing stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Application: Apply online through the official e-Visa website before travel.
Work Visa
- Eligibility: Requires a job offer from a Turkish employer.
- Application: The employer initiates the work permit application in Turkey. Once approved, you apply for the work visa at a Turkish consulate in your home country.
Student Visa
- Eligibility: Must be accepted by a Turkish educational institution.
- Application: Submit the acceptance letter and required documents to a Turkish consulate in your home country.
Family Visa
- Eligibility: For family members of Turkish citizens or residents.
- Application: Apply at a Turkish consulate with proof of family ties.
2. Residence Permit
Short-Term Residence Permit
- Eligibility: For stays longer than 90 days for tourism, business, or study.
- Application: Apply online through the Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) website.
- Documents: Passport, proof of income, health insurance, proof of accommodation.
Long-Term Residence Permit
- Eligibility: After eight years of continuous residence in Turkey.
- Application: Apply through DGMM with proof of long-term residence.
- Documents: Passport, proof of income, health insurance, proof of accommodation, previous residence permits.
Family Residence Permit
- Eligibility: For spouses and children of Turkish citizens or residents.
- Application: Apply through DGMM.
- Documents: Passport, proof of relationship, health insurance, proof of accommodation.
Student Residence Permit
- Eligibility: For students enrolled in Turkish educational institutions.
- Application: Apply through DGMM with proof of enrollment.
- Documents: Passport, acceptance letter, health insurance, proof of accommodation.
3. Application Process
Online Application
- Visit the DGMM website and complete the online application form.
- Schedule an appointment at a local DGMM office.
Appointment
- Attend the appointment with all required documents.
- Biometric data (fingerprints) will be taken.
Approval
- Once approved, you will receive your residence permit card.
- Permits are typically issued within 90 days of application.
Moving to Turkey involves understanding customs regulations for importing your household items and navigating the visa and residency requirements. Thorough preparation and documentation are key to ensuring a smooth relocation process. By following these guidelines on how to move to Turkey, you can enjoy a seamless transition to your new life in this diverse and culturally rich country.