Expat Life in Turkey: Advantages and Opportunities

Turkey has become a sought-after destination for expats, providing excellent living conditions. Whether settling along the picturesque Mediterranean coast or in the bustling cities of Istanbul and Ankara, expats enjoy the perks of a European lifestyle at a more affordable cost.

Options for immigrants in Turkey are diverse, including remote work, pursuing a career with a local company, smoothly transitioning into retirement, or engaging in business and investment opportunities.

Expatriates have the option to either purchase property immediately or opt for renting. The local real estate market in Turkey presents attractive options for both scenarios. Below is essential information you need to know about immigrating to Turkey.

• Why Expats Choose Turkey
• What Expats Can Expect in Turkey
• Lingual Environment
• Safety
• Healthcare
• Education
• Taxes
• How Has Turkish Immigration Policy Changed
• Residence Permit Options in Turkey
• How Much Is a Turkish “Golden” Passport?

Why Expats Choose Turkey

As per UN data, Turkey doesn't rank among the top countries for immigration, with only 7.18% of its residents being foreigners. Interestingly, while Turkey recently welcomed over 6 million people, it also saw the departure of around 3.5 million. For context, the UAE has about 88% immigrants in its population, followed by 77% in Qatar, and 73% in Kuwait. However, it's important to note that the original populations of these countries were comparatively low.

Even in terms of absolute numbers, Turkey does not feature among the top ten countries for immigration. The United States leads this ranking with approximately 44.6 million immigrants. Germany comes in second, currently hosting about 15.8 million foreigners, while Saudi Arabia holds the third position with 13.5 million expatriates.

It's also important to note that of the nearly 6 million immigrants in Turkey, about 3.8 million are individuals seeking international protection, predominantly refugees from Syria. In contrast, only 1,334,150 foreign nationals possess a local residence permit.

However, does this data alone truly reflect the quality of life in Turkey, and should it be the sole factor when deciding where to relocate? The answer is a resounding no. To gain a better understanding, let's compare this country with the three most sought-after destinations for immigrants using data from the online resource Numbeo.

Turkey

• Average cost of living per person without rent: $495.
• Average rental price for a one-room flat: $505 in the city centre, $346 outside the centre.
• Health care level: high.
• Transportation costs: bus fare — $0.53, taxi fare (1 km) — $0.53.
• Residence permit and citizenship: available. Turkey offers various residence permit programmes, including a pathway to citizenship through investments of at least $400,000. Additionally, holding a Turkish passport opens the door to a streamlined citizenship by investment program in the United States.

USA

• Average cost of living per person without rent: $1,162.
• Average rental price for a one-room flat: $1,852 in the city centre, $1,511 outside the centre.
• Health care level: high.
• Transportation costs: bus fare — $2.50, taxi fare (1 km) — $1.75, gasoline (per litre) — $1.01.
• Residence permit and citizenship: difficult to obtain. There are many programmes for immigrants, but it is difficult for citizens of many countries to even obtain a visitor visa to the United States. There is no citizenship by investment, but you can buy a green card. However, currently the waiting list for consideration of applications is several years long, despite the fact that you will have to pay at least $800,000.

Germany

• Average cost of living per person without rent: $1,020.
• Average rental price for a one-room flat: $870 in the city centre, $662 outside the centre.
• Health care level: high.
• Transportation costs: bus fare — $3.18, taxi fare (1 km) — $2.12, gasoline (per litre) — $2.07.
• Residence permit and citizenship: available. Germany has many programmes for immigrants. The easiest way to move is for educational programmes or to reunite with family. There is a programme for the repatriation and attraction of foreign workers. Citizenship by investment is not an option.

UAE

• Average cost of living per person without rent: $960.
• Rental cost for a one-room flat: $1,190 in the city centre, $862 outside the centre.
• Health care level: high.
• Transportation costs: bus fare — $1.91, taxi fare (1 km) — $0.82, gasoline (per litre) — $0.90.
• Residence permit: available. The easiest way to obtain a residence permit is for employees of local companies and investors. UAE citizenship is almost impossible to obtain: foreigners can get one only in exceptional cases.

Although Turkey may not be the top choice for expatriates, it outperforms the 'leading' destinations in terms of cost of living and the ease of obtaining legal status. Its benefits also encompass a delightful climate and relative safety.

What Expats Can Expect in Turkey

When considering life in Turkey, each expatriate prioritises various factors. For some, their children's education takes precedence, while others emphasise healthcare. Safety of residence, climate, and freedom of communication are crucial for different individuals. Some take a holistic view, considering all these aspects together. Let's take a brief look at the most significant facets.

Lingual Environment

According to the EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) for 2022, Turkey is ranked 64th globally. Experts have observed a relatively low level of English proficiency among the majority of the population, with only 17% of the country's residents reported as English speakers. However, it's essential to note that these statistics don't provide a comprehensive view of the situation. English proficiency varies significantly by region and age group. Younger generations exhibit greater fluency in the international language, thanks to the inclusion of English in the school curriculum over the past two decades. Additionally, many top universities in Turkey offer instruction in English.

In addition, there are many expats in large cities who speak fluent English.

However, numerous individuals relocating to Turkey opt to learn the Turkish language. If you decide to embark on this journey, be prepared for the challenge it presents. For instance, the US State Department classifies Turkish as a complex language (Category III), categorising it among languages that are notably different from English.

Safety

Concerns about the safety of living in Turkey are understandable, especially considering its proximity to Syria and ongoing military operations in the region. Additionally, the country experiences occasional domestic protests and is prone to earthquakes. Taking these factors into consideration, Numbeo has assigned a moderate safety index to Turkey. However, it's important to note that while Turkey may not be the safest country, it is by no means the most dangerous.

Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy. In 2022, Turkey claimed the fourth spot as the most visited country in the world. The state places a high priority on the safety of foreigners, ensuring both travellers and local residents feel comfortable. Regarding earthquakes, they primarily occur in specific seismically unstable regions. It's worth noting that natural disasters are a global phenomenon, and it's rare to find a country that has never experienced them.

Healthcare

As noted, Numbeo awarded Turkey a high healthcare index. This general indicator lies upon the following characteristics:

• Skills and competence of medical personnel — 74.23%.
• Equipment for modern diagnostics and treatment — 81.1% (quite high).
• Friendliness and politeness of medical personnel — 64.76%.
• Affordability of services — 65.35%.
• Convenient location of healthcare institutions — 78.63%.

Naturally, conditions vary significantly from one region to another. The highest quality medical facilities can be found in major cities such as Istanbul and Ankara. These urban centres offer expatriates access to professional healthcare services adhering to Western standards and equipped with modern facilities.

Please be aware that healthcare services are not provided free of charge. In many instances, you can utilise your insurance policy, which is a requirement for obtaining a local residence permit. The cost of a one-year medical policy starts at 750 TRY ($26), with the final price varying based on the selected insurance company and the age of the insured.

However, it's essential to note that acquiring a policy doesn't completely eliminate medical expenses for foreigners. Specifically, for outpatient treatment, expatriates are responsible for covering 20% of the bill from the medical institution affiliated with the insurance provider. In cases involving other institutions, the insurance agency only covers 40% of the expenses. There is also an annual limit for such claims, which is set at 5,000 TRY ($176).

Inpatient treatment is not subject to restrictions and does not entail any expenses for the immigrant, provided that the expatriate seeks assistance at a contracted institution. However, in situations involving other institutions, the maximum cost of services is capped at 50,000 TRY ($1,764). In such cases, the insured individual is responsible for covering 20% of the bill.

All of this pertains to the foreign medical insurance required for obtaining a residence permit. It serves as a basic requirement but does not include coverage for certain aspects, such as pregnancy and childbirth in Turkey. Therefore, it is advisable to also acquire a private health insurance policy.

By the way, Turkey provides an opportunity for those looking to economise in this aspect. After residing in Turkey for a year, foreigners can apply for a government insurance policy.

Education

Since 2012, compulsory education in Turkey spans a duration of 12 years, comprising three stages: two initial stages and secondary education. Additionally, there is preschool education, which is optional and open to children between the ages of three and five.

Primary education is received from six to 10 years of age.

Following this, schoolchildren enrol in another program, known as Elementary Education, and continue their studies there until they reach the age of 14.

By the end of primary school, they are provided with information about comprehensive, vocational, and technical secondary schools.

Secondary education also includes four grades and consists of general, vocational, and/or technical secondary schools.

All three stages mentioned are mandatory and provided free of charge in public schools. This inclusive access extends to the children of expatriates as well.

After completing their school education, students have the option to choose a university. Higher education institutions in Turkey follow the three-stage Bologna system, providing yesterday's school graduates with a range of options. The following institutions are available to choose from:

• College: The program typically spans a minimum of four years, and graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree.
• Four-year school: These universities focus on specific professions, and the program lasts for a minimum of eight semesters.
• Conservatory: These institutions specialise in music and performing arts education.
• Post-secondary vocational school: These schools offer a shorter curriculum of just four semesters, and graduates obtain training in a specific profession.

There are also graduate schools in Turkey. These are university institutions specialising in postgraduate education. Their students receive master's or Ph.D. degrees.

Expatriates have the option to enrol their children in private schools or universities if they wish to do so. The state oversees paid education, including foreign educational institutions.

Taxes

The Turkish tax system categorises all foreigners into two groups:

• Residents: This category encompasses individuals who reside in the country for more than six months out of every twelve. Exceptions apply to those staying in Turkey for purposes such as medical treatment, employment, business, study, or tourism. Residents are liable to pay taxes on their worldwide income.
• Non-residents: Non-residents are only required to pay taxes to the local budget on income earned within Turkey. This category includes individuals living in the country for less than six months.

Income tax in Turkey is determined based on the income amount, with rates ranging from 15% to 40% after accounting for certain deductions and benefits. Additionally, foreigners are subject to contributions for social security, unemployment insurance, dividend and interest taxes, as well as inheritance and gift taxes.

How Has Turkish Immigration Policy Changed

In 2023, the process of relocating to Turkey has become more challenging. In major cities, certain areas are periodically closed for the issuance of residence permits, allowing people to reside there but making it difficult to legalise their status.

Even more substantial changes have impacted individuals seeking a residence permit through real estate investment. Starting from October 16, 2023, the minimum property value requirement has been raised from $75,000 to $200,000.

Residence Permit Options in Turkey

You can acquire legal status in Turkey and reside there for an extended period for various purposes. Depending on the reason, the following types of residence permits are available:

• Short-term residence permits are the most common and diverse in terms of the reasons for obtaining them. They can be acquired for various purposes, including the aforementioned real estate purchase with a minimum value of $200,000, conducting business, participating in on-the-job training, student exchange programs, attending language courses, seeking medical treatment, engaging in investment activities, and even for tourism purposes. The duration of stay can vary, with short-term residence permits typically issued for a maximum of one or two years. However, investors have the option to apply for permits lasting up to five years.
• Family residence permit: This type of residence permit is available to spouses, children, and dependents of both Turkish citizens and individuals holding one of the local residence permits. Foreigners who enter the country under this category can stay for a maximum of three years, but their stay cannot exceed that of their sponsor (the person with whom they came to Turkey to reunite). Not everyone is eligible for a family residence permit; essential requirements include health insurance for all family members, a clean criminal record, and a minimum income equivalent to at least 1/3 of the local minimum wage per person, or one whole minimum wage for the entire family. As of 2023, the minimum wage is €446. If the inviting party holds a residence permit, they must have resided in the country for a minimum of one year and possess a registered residential address.
• Student residence permit: This type of residence permit is granted to all students enrolled in local educational institutions unless they hold other types of residence permits. The duration of validity can vary. For instance, students attending government institutions can obtain permits for the entire duration of their studies, even if it extends beyond one year. In other situations, a residence permit is issued either for 12 months or for the duration of the studies, particularly when the study program spans multiple months.
• Long-term residence permit: This is an indefinite and permanent residence permit granted after residing in Turkey for eight years under specific conditions. To be eligible to apply, the applicant must meet certain criteria. These include not having received assistance from the local social system for at least the past three years, being insured, and having a stable income sufficient to support both themselves and their family members, if applicable.
• Humanitarian residence permit and residence permit for victims of human trafficking: These are two exceptional residence permits that are granted in special circumstances to individuals in need of protection.

There are fees associated with obtaining temporary and permanent residence permits, and the amount varies based on the individual's citizenship. In some instances, the fee is $5 for the first month and $0.5 for each subsequent month, while in other cases, you will be required to pay $25 for the first month and $5 for each subsequent month.

The fee for the certificate itself is the same for everyone. In 2023, it was 356 TRY ($13).

The process of obtaining a residence permit is designed to be straightforward and accessible. Applicants can submit their application and required documents online through the e-ikamet website. Following this, they will need to attend an interview and provide their biometrics. If the application is approved, the foreigner's ID card (ikamet) will be sent to them by mail.

How Much Is a Turkish “Golden” Passport?

The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Programme offers the following conditions:

• Purchasing real estate for at least $400,000.
• Investment of $500,000 in fixed capital contributions.
• Depositing at least $500,000 into a Turkish bank account.
• Purchasing Turkish government bonds in the amount of at least $500,000.
• Contribution of at least $500,000 to a real estate investment trust or venture capital investment fund.
• Contribution $500,000 to a retirement plan.

The expat cannot resell the real estate or withdraw the financial assets from the Turkish economy for three years.

Once they choose a suitable programme, the investor first applies for a residence permit for themselves and their family. A residence permit is issued to complete all procedures.

After this, you need to open a bank account in Turkey, prepare documents, complete investments, and apply for citizenship. The processing time is 120 days from the date of application. After approval, the investor can proceed to obtain a passport.

In a Nutshell 

Turkey is a welcoming country with a delightful climate, a high quality of life, and affordability. While it may not be the most widely chosen destination for immigration, it is home to a sizable expat community. The growing number of expats in the country has prompted local authorities to tighten the conditions for obtaining a residence permit. This includes an increase in the minimum property value required for eligibility. Additionally, certain areas have been restricted for foreign buyers, limiting their options. In areas where foreigners can purchase property, the minimum cost has been set at $200,000.

However, the citizenship by investment program remains unchanged. It still enables individuals who purchase real estate valued at a minimum of $400,000 or make other contributions to the economy totaling at least $500,000 to become eligible for a Turkish passport.

Other legal pathways to relocate to Turkey include pursuing education at a local institution, employment, marriage, and tourism.

Cover photo: Denis Fedotov (Pixabay)