What You Should Know About Living in Türkiye in 2026

If you want an affordable place to live with strong healthcare and solid infrastructure, Türkiye is worth looking at. It sits between Europe and the Middle East, which makes travel and business simple and predictable.

Remote workers appreciate the internet quality and co-working options. Retirees benefit from lower medical costs and mild winters. Investors look at real estate prices and the citizenship-by-investment route.

In this guide, we will break down what life in Türkiye looks like in 2026, how foreigners get residency or citizenship, what it costs to live in the major cities, and what to expect day-to-day as an expat.

Who moves to Türkiye and why in 2026?

Foreign nationals come to Türkiye with different goals. The most common profiles include:

• retirees who want lower living costs and private healthcare access
• remote workers who want EU proximity without EU pricing
• families who need international schools and safe neighborhoods
• investors who want real estate exposure and citizenship options
• expats from Europe, the Gulf, and the CIS who value short flight times

The choice of city depends on priorities.

If Türkiye aligns with your goals, the next step is examining how foreign nationals secure residency or citizenship.

How can you get residency or citizenship in Türkiye in 2026?

Foreign nationals have several legal pathways depending on whether they want temporary residence, long-term residence, or full citizenship.

In 2026, the most common routes include:

• residence permits through property ownership or rental agreements
• residence permits through employment, study, or family reunification
• citizenship by investment for eligible investors

Since Türkiye is widely known for its citizenship-by-investment program, we will explain that path first before moving into cost of living, cities, and lifestyle topics.

What is Türkiye’s citizenship-by-investment program in 2026?

Türkiye offers a government-backed citizenship program for foreign investors who meet defined financial criteria.

It is used by applicants who want a second citizenship for mobility planning, real estate exposure, or family security.

What are the investment requirements?

The most common investment route is real estate. To qualify in 2026, investors must:

• purchase eligible real estate valued at at least $400,000, and
• register a three-year hold commitment on the title deed

Both residential and commercial properties can qualify. In some cases, multiple properties may be combined to meet the threshold if they are purchased under the same main applicant.

Other qualifying investment routes exist, such as:

• capital contributions of $500,000+
• bank deposits of $500,000+
• government bond purchases of $500,000+
• investment fund shares of $500,000+
• job creation for at least 50 full-time employees

These options are legally available, but real estate remains the primary choice due to its accessibility, property value potential, and straightforward documentation.

Who is eligible for Türkiye’s citizenship-by-investment program?

Main applicant requirements:

To qualify as the main applicant, you must meet the following conditions:

• be at least 18 years old
• be in good health
• have no serious criminal convictions
• successfully pass background and security checks
• demonstrate lawful source of investment funds

Eligible dependants:

The following family members can be included under the same application:

• spouse of the main applicant
• children under 18 years old (biological or legally adopted)

Children over 18 may require separate applications depending on their situation, such as disability status or continued dependence.

How does the citizenship process work with Savory & Partners?

Savory & Partners assists investors throughout the entire procedure, including eligibility checks, property sourcing, documentation, government submissions, and follow-up stages.

To apply, an investor must complete a qualifying real estate purchase and submit a citizenship file supported by the required documents.

The application process generally moves through these stages:

Pre-screening and onboarding:

Savory & Partners reviews the main applicant’s passport and background to confirm eligibility for government submission.

Document collection:

The team guides the applicant through preparing civil, financial, and compliance documents according to Türkiye’s official requirements.

Property selection and purchase:

Investors choose qualifying property from approved listings. After selection, the purchase is completed under the applicant’s name with the required annotations on the title.

Valuation and compliance verification:

A licensed valuation expert confirms that the property meets the USD $400,000 threshold and that the three-year hold requirement is registered.

Government filing and residence permit:

The citizenship file is prepared and submitted. A temporary residence permit specific to investors is issued during the evaluation period.

Security checks and approval:

Government authorities conduct background and security reviews. Once confirmed, the Ministry of Interior sends the file to the Presidency for final approval.

Citizenship issuance:

Citizenship is granted and officially published. Passports are issued after registration is completed.

What benefits do investors gain with Turkish citizenship?

Mobility advantages:

Turkish citizens have visa-free, visa-on-arrival, or eVisa access to more than 130 countries and territories, including Brazil, Japan, and Singapore. Mobility depends on current diplomatic agreements.

Access to the US E-2 Investor Visa:

Turkish citizens may apply for the United States E-2 Investor Visa, which allows entry to manage and operate a business in the US.

Dual citizenship permitted:

Türkiye allows dual citizenship. There is no requirement to renounce an existing nationality.

No mandatory physical stay:

There are no physical residency requirements before or after approval. Relocation remains optional.

Tax considerations:

Türkiye does not impose wealth tax and does not tax worldwide income for non-residents. Tax treatment depends on residency status and domestic income.

Healthcare and education access:

Citizens can access Türkiye’s healthcare and education systems, including private medical facilities and international schools.

How much does it cost to live in Türkiye in 2026?

Türkiye’s cost of living depends on city and lifestyle. Istanbul sits at the higher end because it functions as a global city.

Antalya and Alanya offer Mediterranean living at a lower cost. Bodrum attracts seasonal and luxury buyers.

Overall, daily expenses, healthcare, and transportation remain lower than in the EU, the UK, and the United States.

How much do housing and real estate cost in Türkiye?

Rental costs:

Rental prices vary by district:

• City centers (Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir): One-bedroom apartments in areas such as Nişantaşı (Istanbul) or Alsancak (Izmir) often range between $1,000 to $2,500 per month
• Residential districts: Districts like Kadıköy (Istanbul) or Bornova (Izmir) often range between $600 to $1,200 for a similar one-bedroom
• Coastal towns (Antalya, Alanya): Beachside rental apartments can start at $400 per month outside peak tourist season

Purchase prices:

Real estate pricing depends on the city and proximity to the coast:

• Central Istanbul: Smaller central apartments often start around $100,000
• Coastal regions (Antalya, Bodrum, Alanya): Beachfront units can start from $80,000 depending on building age and features

Transaction costs:

Expect an additional 4–6% in closing costs, including transfer tax, notary, valuation, and legal fees.

Citizenship by investment:

Real estate purchases of $400,000 or more may qualify for citizenship if legal conditions are met.

What do daily expenses look like in Türkiye?

Daily costs remain below the EU average. Examples for 2026:

• Groceries for one person: typically $120–$200 per month
• Meal at a casual restaurant: around $6–$10
• Gym membership: usually $20–$40 per month
• Home internet: around $10–$20 per month for fiber plans

Final amounts vary by district and lifestyle.

How much does healthcare cost in Türkiye?

Private healthcare is developed and cost-efficient. Reference pricing:

• Private health insurance: $30–$70 per month depending on age and coverage
• Private doctor consultation: $25–$50 per visit
• Dental cleaning: around $30
• Specialist care and minor procedures: often 70–80% cheaper than in the US or Western Europe

Many long-term expats choose private clinics due to short wait times and predictable pricing.

How much do transportation and utilities cost in Türkiye?

Public transport:

Cities offer metro, tram, bus, ferry, and suburban rail networks.

• Monthly pass (Istanbul): around 1,300 TRY (about $40)
• Single ride: 10–15 TRY (under $0.50)

Taxi and ride-hailing:

Both taxis and ride-hailing apps operate in major cities.

• Base fare: around $0.80
• Longer rides: often under $8 within the city

Utilities:

For a one-bedroom apartment, combined utilities (electricity, water, gas, waste) usually range between $60–$120 per month, depending on region and season.

Which cities are the best places to live in Türkiye?

Choosing where to live depends on lifestyle, budget, and reason for relocating. Türkiye has dense urban centers, coastal resort towns, and quieter provincial cities.

Below are the most popular options for foreign residents in 2026.

Istanbul

Istanbul is the center of business, tech, media, and international schools. It has the largest expat community in Türkiye and offers direct flights to most major regions.

• Who chooses it: remote workers, families, entrepreneurs, students
• Pros: international neighborhoods, bilingual services, airport access, global food scene
• Cons: higher housing costs, traffic, competitive school admissions

Popular districts for foreigners include Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Ataşehir. Coastal areas along the Bosphorus and the Prince Islands offer quieter living.

Antalya

Antalya is one of the most popular coastal areas for Europeans, CIS nationals, and Middle Eastern families.

It has a warm climate, modern infrastructure, and strong healthcare options.

• Who chooses it: retirees, families, long-stay residents, investors
• Pros: beach lifestyle, lower living costs than Istanbul, English widely spoken in tourist areas
• Cons: seasonal tourism fluctuations, lower income opportunities compared to Istanbul

Neighborhoods like Konyaaltı and Lara are popular for long-term living.

Izmir

Izmir offers a relaxed environment with access to beaches, universities, and a growing tech scene. It balances Mediterranean living with urban convenience.

• Who chooses it: families, students, remote workers, professionals
• Pros: milder climate, moderate housing costs, walkable districts, cultural festivals
• Cons: fewer international schools compared to Istanbul, slower job market

Nearby areas like Çeşme and Alaçatı attract seasonal residents and investors.

Bodrum

Bodrum sits on the Aegean coast and is known for marinas, resorts, and summer homes.

It attracts HNWIs and foreign buyers looking for premium property.

• Who chooses it: investors, retirees, digital nomads during summer
• Pros: luxury housing stock, beach clubs, marinas, strong tourism economy
• Cons: prices peak in summer, seasonal crowding, limited year-round jobs

Bodrum’s Yalıkavak Marina and Türkbükü areas are among the most premium.

Alanya

Alanya is a favorite among European retirees and long-term expats who want low living costs with beach access.

• Who chooses it: retirees, families, long-stay expats
• Pros: very affordable rents, warm climate, active expat communities
• Cons: tourism-driven economy, very hot summers, fewer international schools

Foreign residents can be found in districts like Oba, Mahmutlar, and Kargıcak.

What are the pros and cons of living in Türkiye in 2026?

Foreign nationals choose Türkiye for lifestyle, healthcare, and property value. At the same time, they should understand the challenges that come with relocation.

Below is a balanced view based on the most common expat experiences.

What are the advantages for foreign residents?

Affordable daily life:

Groceries, transportation, dining, and healthcare cost less than in the EU, UK, or United States. This is one of the main reasons retirees choose coastal cities like Antalya or Alanya.

Strong private healthcare:

Private hospitals and clinics have modern equipment and short wait times. Insurance is priced competitively and dental care is especially affordable.

Property ownership with citizenship options:

Foreigners can own real estate with full title deeds. Investors who meet program rules can obtain citizenship, which is rare among major countries offering property access.

Great location for travel and business:

Flights connect Türkiye to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. Istanbul Airport is a major international transit hub.

Cultural and geographic variety:

Residents can access beaches, mountains, historical sites, and modern cities without domestic flights. This creates year-round lifestyle options for families and retirees.

What challenges should foreign residents expect?

Language differences:

English is common in tourist hubs, international schools, and high-end services. Outside those zones, daily life often requires basic Turkish. Most long-term residents learn conversational Turkish for banking, healthcare, and property issues.

Bureaucratic procedures:

Residency renewals, tax numbers, and title deeds require proper documentation. Many expats use local attorneys or consultants to avoid procedural setbacks.

Seasonal economies in coastal cities:

Locations like Bodrum, Alanya, or Marmaris depend on tourism. This affects business hours, jobs, and rental prices during off-season months.

Currency fluctuations:

Foreigners who earn income in dollars, euros, or pounds benefit from purchasing power. However, long-term planners should consider how currency movements affect investments and savings.

What is life like for expats living in Türkiye in 2026?

Foreign residents in Türkiye often ask what daily life looks like once the paperwork is done.

The experience depends on city, income source, and personal preferences, but most expats focus on three areas: education, healthcare, and integration.

How does education work for expat families in Türkiye?

Türkiye offers public, private, and international schools. Public schools teach in Turkish and are funded by the state, while private and international schools offer English-language or bilingual instruction.

Education levels are structured as follows:

• Pre-primary: optional for ages 3–5
• Primary: compulsory for ages 6–14
• Secondary: compulsory for ages 15–18 with academic and vocational tracks
• Many expat families choose private or international schools because they follow British, American, IB, or French curricula.

This makes transitions easier for students who may later study abroad. These schools also offer Turkish language classes to help students adjust to daily life.

How does healthcare work for foreign residents in Türkiye?

Türkiye has both public and private healthcare systems. Public healthcare is funded for citizens through Social Security contributions.

Foreigners with residency may access it in some cases, but many expats rely on private insurance.

Key points for 2026:

• Private hospitals are widely used by expats because of shorter waiting times and English-speaking staff
• Medical standards in major cities meet international expectations
• GHIC and EHIC cards are not valid in Türkiye
• Health insurance is mandatory for obtaining work or residence permits under Turkish immigration rules

Foreign residents can choose between Universal Health Insurance (SGK) once eligible and Private health insurance, which is required for many residence permits.

Private clinics in Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, and Izmir are well-regarded for dental care, outpatient services, diagnostics, and elective procedures.

What taxes should foreign residents expect to pay in Türkiye?

Foreigners who plan to live, work, or invest in Türkiye should understand how tax residency works. The rules depend on how long you stay and where your income comes from.

How does tax residency work in Türkiye?

A foreign national is considered a tax resident if they spend more than six months in Türkiye within a year. Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income.

Non-tax residents are only taxed on income earned in Türkiye, not abroad.

How is personal income taxed for foreigners in 2026?

Türkiye uses a progressive income tax system. Rates range from 0% to 35% depending on income level and category.

Examples:

• salaried employment in Türkiye is taxed under progressive brackets
• foreign employees paid by a foreign company may receive exemptions in certain cases
• retirees with foreign pensions may benefit from reduced effective rates if income is sourced abroad

Foreign earners who are not tax residents are generally not taxed on global income, only on income sourced within Türkiye.

Because tax profiles vary by country of origin and income source, many expats speak with a local tax advisor to avoid double-taxation or compliance issues.

What about corporate tax and business activity?

The standard corporate income tax rate in Türkiye is 20% on annual profits. Certain free zones provide incentives where:

• corporate tax
• VAT on logistics
• stamp duties

may be reduced or exempt depending on activity and zone rules.

These are commonly used by export-oriented companies and technology firms.

How do foreign residents open a bank account in Türkiye?

Most expats can open a bank account in Türkiye for daily expenses, utilities, rent, or investments. Both local banks and international banks operate in major cities.

What documents do foreigners need to open a bank account?

Common requirements include:

• passport
• Turkish tax number
• proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)
• residence permit (for certain account types)

Some banks allow account opening without a residence permit, but others require it once you start using the account long term.

How do foreigners obtain a Turkish tax number for banking?

The tax number (Vergi Kimlik Numarası) is easy to obtain. It can be requested at local tax offices in person, or online through the Revenue Administration portal.

The tax number is used for banking, property transactions, and utilities.

Can foreigners hold foreign currency accounts?

Yes. Banks offer accounts in TRY, USD, EUR and GBP.

Foreign currency accounts are useful for remote workers paid in another currency and for investors buying real estate.

What happens if your residence permit expires?

Banks may request an updated permit to keep the account active. If the residence permit is not renewed, the bank may restrict certain functions until updated documents are provided.

What should you consider before moving to Türkiye in 2026?

Moving to Türkiye can offer real benefits if you plan ahead. The strongest experiences come from expats who choose the right city, understand residency rules, prepare their taxes, and set up banking early.

If you are evaluating real estate or citizenship as part of your relocation, contact Savory & Partners, and our team can review your eligibility, structure your investment correctly, and guide you through the full process.

FAQs About Living in Türkiye in 2026

Can foreigners work in Türkiye?

Foreigners can work in Türkiye if they obtain a work permit sponsored by an employer or through self-employment routes. Remote workers who are paid from abroad may also live in Türkiye under residence permits, depending on their case.

How long does it take to obtain Turkish citizenship by investment?

Processing timelines vary. Many applicants receive citizenship in several months, once investment, background checks, and documentation are complete.

Do foreigners need health insurance to live in Türkiye?

Yes. Health insurance is required for most residence permit categories. Private policies are widely used and priced competitively.

Is Türkiye safe for expats?

Major cities and coastal regions where expats live are considered safe. Like any large country, standards vary by neighborhood and city, so newcomers often choose districts with established foreign communities.

Do I become a tax resident if I live in Türkiye?

You become a tax resident if you spend more than six months per year in Türkiye. Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income. Non-residents are taxed only on Turkish-sourced income.

Can foreigners buy property in Türkiye?

Yes. Foreigners can buy property with full freehold title in most regions. Due diligence is advised for valuation, zoning, and title checks.

Which cities are most popular with expats?

Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, Alanya, and Bodrum attract the most foreign residents in 2026, each for different lifestyle and budget reasons.

Is Turkish citizenship dual-friendly?

Yes. Türkiye allows dual citizenship, and applicants are not required to renounce previous citizenships.

References

Republic of Türkiye — Presidency of Migration Management. Referred from: https://www.goc.gov.tr

Revenue Administration — Ministry of Treasury and Finance. Referred from: https://www.gib.gov.tr

Official Gazette of the Republic of Türkiye. Referred from: https://www.resmigazete.gov.tr

Ministry of National Education (MEB). Referred from: https://www.meb.gov.tr

Social Security Institution (SGK). Referred from: https://www.sgk.gov.tr