Among all the places I’ve lived in the world, life in Istanbul was one of my favorites.
Even though I only live there part-time, I travel there a few times a year for work and to see my favorite places. Though I’m still unsure if I should relocate permanently to Istanbul and buy property there
The war has put life in Ukraine, where home is, on hold, so Mark and I are still unsure of how to plan our future and where to settle. We currently live in Northern Tenerife, but we are thinking of moving to Turkey—more especially, Istanbul—because we love this city so much.
In one of our recent returns there, I noticed that Istanbul had undergone a few changes. It seemed to have evolved, with new establishments and vibrant new quarters emerging. The general quality of life was improved in many neighborhoods and historic districts through the expansion of green spaces, the integration of technology into public services, and infrastructure improvements.
Due to all of these changes, I felt compelled to take some time to update this post, which was originally written during our first year of relocation—the year of COVID—and consider the current sentiment of the expat community toward Istanbul as well as the experience of being a foreigner residing there at the moment.
So allow me to share my thoughts while they are still fresh in my mind. If you have any questions concerning the lifestyle or living conditions in Istanbul that are not addressed in this list, please feel free to message me or leave a comment below.
Turkey, a captivating land bridging Europe and Asia, offers a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and modern living. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the serene shores of the Aegean, Turkey presents a captivating blend of ancient wonders and contemporary charm. This guide delves into the various aspects of life in Turkey, providing valuable insights for those considering a move or simply wanting to understand the Turkish experience.
Pros and Cons of Living in Turkey:
Pros:
- Low Cost of Living: Compared to many European countries, Turkey boasts a significantly lower cost of living. Expats with foreign income can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, while those earning in Turkish lira can still live comfortably.
- Hospitable People: Turkish culture is deeply rooted in hospitality, with locals renowned for their friendliness and generosity. It’s common for strangers to invite you for tea or a meal, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Secular State: While the majority of the population identifies as Muslim, Turkey is a secular state, allowing freedom of religion for all individuals. However, respecting local customs, such as refraining from eating, drinking, and smoking during Ramadan, is essential.
- Diverse Housing Options: From modern apartments to charming villas, Turkey offers a wide variety of housing options to suit different preferences and budgets.
- Excellent Healthcare: Turkey has invested heavily in its healthcare system, providing affordable and accessible care for residents. Public healthcare is free for those below a certain income threshold, while private healthcare offers high-quality services at reasonable costs.
Cons:
- High Cost of Imported Goods: Due to import taxes, imported goods can be expensive. Electronics and car imports are particularly costly.
- Limited International Schools: International schools offering instruction in English or other foreign languages are limited and often expensive.
- Road Safety Concerns: Road safety remains a concern in Turkey, with high accident rates due to lax adherence to traffic rules and reckless driving.
- Strict Employment Laws: Obtaining work permits can be challenging due to high unemployment rates.
Lifestyle in Turkey:
- Rich Culture: Immerse yourself in Turkey’s rich cultural heritage, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and traditional art forms.
- Delicious Cuisine: Savor the delectable flavors of Turkish cuisine, from savory kebabs to sweet baklava, all prepared with fresh and local ingredients.
- Beautiful Nature: Explore Turkey’s stunning landscapes, ranging from snow-capped mountains and lush forests to pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
- Warm Climate: Enjoy Turkey’s warm and sunny climate, perfect for outdoor activities and soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine.
Additional Considerations:
- Language: Learning basic Turkish phrases will enhance your daily interactions and cultural understanding.
- Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to live and work in Turkey.
- Transportation: Turkey’s public transportation system is well-developed and affordable, offering buses, trains, planes, and metro systems in major cities.
Life in Turkey: Perspectives from Expats:
“The friendliness of the people, feeling safe, and the climate are amazing. I have a better standard of living here than I would in the UK, even with a lower salary. I couldn’t afford to live in the UK on my pension, but I have a good standard of living here. Every day is like being on holiday!” – Faye, an expat living in Turkey
“I love the diversity of Istanbul. It’s a city that never sleeps, with something for everyone. The food is incredible, and the people are so friendly and welcoming. ” – John, an expat living in Istanbul.
“Living in Turkey has been a wonderful experience. The pace of life is slower here, and I have more time to enjoy the simple things. The people are incredibly kind and helpful, and I feel very much at home here.” – Sarah, an expat living in a rural Turkish village
Living in Turkey presents a unique and rewarding experience, offering a blend of cultural richness, affordability, and modern amenities. While challenges exist, the benefits of living in Turkey, such as the warm climate, delicious food, and friendly people, outweigh the drawbacks for many expats. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling cities or the peaceful countryside, Turkey offers a welcoming environment for those seeking a fulfilling life abroad.
What is the Easiest Way to Come & Live in Istanbul?
Hence, the easiest way to relocate to Istanbul is to first fly to Turkey and then apply for a tourist-based residence permit (which is good for a year) while there. Other reasons to apply for residency include work, schooling, purchasing a home, launching a business, or getting married to a citizen of the Turkish Republic.
Nevertheless, the simplest and least stressful way to do so is to apply for residency while already present in the country.
The majority of digital nomads and foreigners in Istanbul obtain residency in Turkey based on tourism. There is a special program known as the “Short-Term Residence Permit for Touristic Purposes” for tourists who plan to stay longer while engaging in tourism-related activities. ” .
Basically, the procedure starts with completing the application on the Directorate General of Migration Management’s official website, scheduling an appointment, and preparing the necessary documents, which include a passport, biometric photos, health insurance, proof of housing (a lease is necessary, so this is very important), and records of your financial means.
From the time you complete the online form until the Immigration Department notifies you of the day and time you need to submit the entire package of documents, it takes about a month.
This is it: you submit the paperwork, provide biometric data, pay the required fees, and then wait for the application to be processed at the appointment. If all the paperwork is in order and nothing is missing, the average response time (approving an applicant) is up to ninety days.
Unless you have a special document for a legitimate reason, you are not permitted to leave Turkey for a maximum of 15 days while you are awaiting a residence permit. After the year, when the permit expires, you can renew it again if you wish.
Moving to Istanbul, Turkey, is not too difficult, particularly if you have savings or a remote job.
What is Daily Life in Istanbul Like?
And now let’s actually talk about daily life in Istanbul. What is the cost of living in Istanbul in comparison to other cities? How safe is Istanbul? How are the locals treating Americans who live there? Are they welcoming to visitors?
I’m not sure what kind of impression you have of Istanbul, but the truth is that day-to-day living here is not all that different from that of any other big city in the world. Of course, there is its own cultural difference, vibe, and style of architecture. And it is bustling with life and indescribable energy. But being a liberal diverse city, at first sight, Istanbul easily reminds of somewhere in Europe.
Istanbul daily life is typically fast-paced, but it can also be quite relaxed depending on what you do.
For instance, Arnavutkoy, Bahcesehir, and Cihangir (among many other neighborhoods; these are just good examples) are not as chaotic as they are. This is because weekdays here are similar to weekends because many of the people who live in these areas are either digital nomads or work in the arts, culture, or entertainment industries and don’t really have 9 to 5 jobs.
Daily life in this city is never boring—unless you’re boring, that is. There are a ton of interesting things to see and do, a ton of hidden gems, and an endless supply of possibilities.
If you are American thinking to come and live in Istanbul, there is absolutely nothing to worry about. Choosing a neighborhood to live in is the most important decision because it will determine how much you will actually enjoy the city.
Some neighborhoods are stylish and modern while others are old and sort of neglected. You don’t want to end up living next to very religious or radical people. And you don’t want to live among those who don’t have legal status in the country. So that’s important. Read my post about the most unsafe Istanbul areas to know which areas are better to avoid.
WHAT DOES IT COST TO LIVE IN TURKEY?
FAQ
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