Immigrate to Turkey from the US

Cost of Moving to Turkey

Relocating to Turkey involves several key expenses:

• Shipping Household Goods: $3,000–$6,000 for a container shipment.

• Customs Fees: Personal items may qualify for duty-free import if declared appropriately.

• Flights: Round-trip airfare ranges from $700–$1,200, depending on the season.

Pro Tip: Consider renting furnished apartments to reduce the need for shipping large furniture.

Visa and Residency Requirements

US citizens require a visa for stays exceeding 90 days. Common residency options include:

• Short-Term Residence Permit: Ideal for retirees, digital nomads, or those renting long-term.

• Work Permit: Tied to employment contracts with Turkish employers.

• Family Residence Permit: For joining a spouse or immediate family living in Turkey.

Step-by-Step Guide for a Short-Term Residence Permit:

1. Apply for a visa before arriving in Turkey.

2. Gather required documents, including proof of income and a valid rental contract.

3. Submit your application to the Directorate General of Migration Management.

4. Attend your appointment and receive your residence card.

Healthcare and Education

Healthcare in Turkey

Turkey offers both public and private healthcare systems, known for their affordability and quality.

• Public Healthcare: Free or low-cost for residents, though services may have longer wait times.

• Private Healthcare: Costs range from $50–$100 per doctor’s visit, with English-speaking staff in many clinics.

Education in Turkey

Expats have access to several educational options:

• Public Schools: Free but taught in Turkish.

• International Schools: Offering American or British curricula, primarily located in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.

Immigrating to Turkey

Moving Checklist

Stay organized with this comprehensive checklist:

1. Documentation: Gather your passport, visa, and proof of financial means.

2. Housing: Secure temporary accommodations before committing to a long-term lease.

3. Banking: Open a local bank account for easier transactions.

4. Healthcare Enrollment: Decide between private health insurance or joining the public system.

5. Customs: Prepare an inventory of your personal belongings for shipping.

Food & Drink

Turkey’s rich culinary heritage offers an unforgettable experience for food lovers. Must-try dishes include:

• Kebabs: A wide variety of grilled and roasted meats.

• Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup.

• Meze: Small appetizers served with drinks, perfect for socializing.

For Familiar Flavors: International supermarkets in major cities stock American brands, and Western-style restaurants are widely available.

Culture

Turkey’s culture combines deep-rooted traditions with modern influences.

• Languages: Turkish is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

• Festivals: Celebrate events like Republic Day and the vibrant Istanbul Film Festival.

• Social Customs: Hospitality is central to Turkish culture; expect warm welcomes and offers of tea.