Do's and Don't's Before Moving to Turkey
There are many things to know before moving to Turkey. Whether you like a comfortable life or plan to move for financial reasons, this is an ideal time. But as always, preparation is critical. Additionally, research and knowledge will prevent much stress during and after the move. Expat life is easy, with realistic expectations. However, as with the good days, there are cons to life that might cross your path.
There is much to consider, from Black Sea urban life to the larger Mediterranean cities, culture shock, the cost of living, and more. Indeed, Turkey is brimming with historical sites, breathtaking views, and places of natural beauty. But we all must navigate the intricacies of daily life. So, we have put together our tips on what expats should know.
What to Know Before Moving to Turkey
1: Embrace the Culture and Traditions
Despite the many expats, Turkey is not like a mini-Britain. Understanding Turkish cuisine, culture, and religion will help immensely. Multi-culture practices are evident in destinations like central Istanbul or cosmopolitan Izmir. However, look closely into any local neighbourhood to discover certain practices and beliefs that don't match yours but need to be accepted.
Stereotyping the rich culture is hard because every region is different, and sometimes, Turkish culture conflicts with your emotions, daily life, or points of view. For example, the annual 30 days of fasting stuns most expats, especially in summer, but you should respect those who fast. Generally, also stay away from conversations about politics or football.
2: Maintaining Family Ties After Relocation
Every family is different, and while some are happy for mum or dad to live out their days in the sun, others miss their grandchildren or resent the fact they cannot just hop on a bus to see them. It is roughly a four-hour flight from the UK, and ticket prices have increased in recent years. So, sit down with close family members to discuss how the move will affect everyone. This ensures everyone knows what to expect, and family arguments are minimal. Also, schedule regular visits back home as well as Skype or WhatsApp calls.
3: Finances, Foreign Currencies and and Banking
Shop around Turkish banks because some offer services specifically for the expat communities. They also have English-speaking staff, which makes life easier. If you receive a pension or wages in a foreign currency, always keep an eye on the current exchange rates since they constantly increase.
Ultimately, the Turkish lira will affect your purchasing power. Most expats use foreign exchange companies instead of banks to get Turkish lira. Set budgets and factor in inflation and the constant change in foreign exchange rates. It helps to have rainy day pots and check for any double taxation agreement in your home country. But overall, managing your finances should be a top priority since this is the number one reason expats go home.
4: Turkish Residence Permit Requirement
Like European countries and expat cities, authorities are strict about residency visa permits, and significant cities block applications when too many foreigners move to the area. Before you move, know all about the residency requirements. You must get off a tourist visa to spend more than 90 days here.
Gaining a residency visa permit is much easier than in other countries because the application is all online. People planning the move can start the process by applying for a license in their country of residence. However, most people wait until they get here. Anyone planning to marry a Turk should apply for a family residence permit.
5: The Language Barrier of Expat Life
Daily life in some places, especially city centres, is hard when you don't know Turkish. While Turkish citizens in most coastal resorts speak foreign languages because of the tourism trade and community of expats from Western cultures, it is still helpful to try and learn. Your quality of life will improve. In most expat cities, foreign language schools run courses, or you can download apps for free.
6: Buying Real Estate Versus Renting
In big Turkish cities, people rent simply because of the cost of housing and the number of rental properties on the market. However, head to the coastal areas, and British citizens are torn between renting and investing in property. While many love the beautiful beaches and Mediterranean lifestyle, some don't plan to live here for the rest of their lives. Hence, they rent.
Some ex-pats and foreign investors who want their families to grow up here opt into Turkish citizenship through a foreign investment program called the Golden visa. This scheme allows foreign nationals, upon buying, to become Turkish citizens. Others buy property for permanent residence but keep ties with their home country. It is all about personal preferences, but something to think about.
7: Healthcare and Hospitals
Any expat with pre-existing conditions should know where the nearest healthcare facilities and public and private hospitals are. Additionally, those over 65 don't need medical insurance to get a residency permit; otherwise, you do. Choose from private health insurance and the state-run SGK program run by the government, which is the equivalent of the national insurance program in England. In recent years, Turkish hospitals have become much better, and be aware that private hospitals incur hefty costs. Overall, expect excellent healthcare, but it will cost.
8: International Schools Versus Public Education
Families with children should look carefully at what they want to do with schooling. Many criticise public schools for limited curriculums, whereas private schools run international curriculums with global qualifications. So, should your children want to leave Turkey in later years, educational establishments in other countries will recognise their qualifications.
9: Working in Turkey
Expats who want to work need a work permit, which your employer will apply for. Never agree to work illegally; authorities will deport you on the spot. Some expats enter businesses or set up their bars or restaurants. However, doing business is hard even if your business partners are Turkish.
Most Popular Places to Live in Turkey
If you are undecided about where to live, be prepared for an avalanche of choices. From sandy beaches to large communities of expats, urban centres, and rural villages, take your time choosing. Rent first and see how you like the destination and whether it fits your idea of a comfortable lifestyle.
Antalya Region: For multicultural social circles, Antalya will be ideal since the region houses British, German, and Russian expats. An excellent public transport system connects all the towns and villages, such as Alanya, Belek, Kemer, and Side. At the same time, foreign citizens often host informal get-togethers to share their knowledge and experience. The expat destinations, famed for beautiful beaches, are popular with digital nomads and expat families.
Fethiye Region: Home to archaeological sites, this attractive destination has an impressive cultural heritage revolving around the Turkish Riviera and sailing. Many British nationals live here, and although there are cultural differences, they and Turks coexist harmoniously. Regardless of your country of origin, it is easy to fit into life in any of the main areas: Calis Beach, Hisaronu, Ovacik, and the town centre.
Bodrum Region: Heading out to the Aegean coast, Bodrum is another destination that excels in sailing. The jewel, though, is upmarket destinations like Yalikavak, where houses sell for six figures or more. Bodrum's religious influences aren't undeniable since the peninsula embraces cosmopolitan vibes that attract rich celebrities worldwide. Whether you want personal space, fine Turkish cuisine, or glitzy lifestyles, Bodrum delivers all that and much more.
About Us - Turkey Homes
We are Turkey Homes, an estate agent who sells property in many areas. Contact us today to find out what our estate agency services can do for you. From larger cities like Istanbul and Antalya to small, rural villages, our portfolio will also be of interest. We have helped many people with relocation and to buy holiday home property.
We also hope we have given you lots of advice on what to know before you move to Turkey, but you can find much more in our blog. Discussing everything from attractive destinations to culture shock, travel advice and more, the blog is your one-stop guide to Turkey.
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