πΉπ· Turkey
Bridge between Europe and Asia offering fast residency and a real-estate path to citizenship
Visa Options
- Short-Term Residence Permit (1β2 years (renewable)) β Proof of accommodation + sufficient funds; no minimum investment
- Turquoise Card (highly qualified) (Indefinite (like a work-permit PR)) β Points-based assessment of skills, investment, or academic merit
- Citizenship by Investment (Citizenship (typically 3β6 months processing)) β $400,000+ real estate (held 3 years) or equivalent bank deposit/capital investment
- Family Residence Permit (1β3 years (renewable)) β Marriage to a Turkish citizen or legal resident
Tax Overview
- Income Tax: 15% β 40% (progressive, updated 2026 brackets)
- Corporate Tax: 25% (standard rate)
- VAT (KDV): 20% standard (raised from 18%; reduced 1%/10% rates on some goods)
- Property Tax (on Golden Visa real estate): 0.1% β 0.6% annually depending on property type/location
Cost of Living
- Comfortable living (single, typical): $700 β $1,300/mo
- 1BR Apartment (Istanbul, central): $400 β $800/mo
- 1BR Apartment (Antalya/Izmir): $300 β $550/mo
- Groceries: $150 β $280/mo
- Utilities: $60 β $130/mo
- Dining out: $5 β $18/meal
- Public transport: $25 β $40/mo
- Private health insurance: $40 β $100/mo
Relocation Checklist
- Decide on residence route (short-term permit vs. investment citizenship)
- Enter Turkey (many nationalities get e-visa or visa-free entry for tourism)
- Secure a lease or property purchase agreement
- Get Turkish tax ID number (potential tax number, quick and free)
- Apply for residence permit online via e-ikamet + submit biometrics
- Obtain private health insurance valid in Turkey
- If pursuing citizenship: complete property purchase, valuation report, and 3-year hold commitment
- Register address with local population registry (nΓΌfus mΓΌdΓΌrlΓΌΔΓΌ)