What Americans Living in Turkey Need to Know in 2025

Turkey offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, attracting many Americans seeking new experiences abroad. From its rich history and diverse cuisine to a lower cost of living, Turkey presents numerous opportunities. However, Americans living in Turkey should be aware of specific considerations, including tax obligations and cultural adjustments, to ensure a smooth transition and fulfilling experience.

Americans living in Turkey: Visa types

If you’re an American considering a long-term stay in Turkey, it’s essential to understand the permanent residency options available. Below are the primary visa types that can lead to permanent residency:

Long-Term Residence Permit

Who it’s for: Foreign nationals who have legally resided in Turkey for at least eight consecutive years.

Overview: This permit grants indefinite residency rights, allowing holders to live in Turkey without time restrictions.

Requirements:

• Continuous residence in Turkey for eight years without significant interruptions.
• Stable income sufficient to support oneself.
• Valid health insurance.
• No record of receiving social assistance in the past three years.
• No criminal record.

Family Residence Permit

Who it’s for: Spouses and dependent children of Turkish citizens or foreign residents with valid work permits.

Overview: This permit allows family members to reside in Turkey and can be a pathway to permanent residency.

Requirements:

• Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates).
• Adequate income to support the family.
• Valid health insurance for all applicants.
• No criminal record.

Work Permit

Who it’s for: Foreign nationals employed by a Turkish company or those who establish their own business in Turkey.

Overview: A work permit allows foreigners to work legally in Turkey and can lead to permanent residency after five years of continuous employment.

Requirements:

• Job offer from a Turkish employer or ownership of a Turkish company.
• Approval from the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
• Valid health insurance.
• No criminal record.

Investment-Based Residence Permit

Who it’s for: Foreign nationals who make significant investments in Turkey, such as purchasing property or investing in a business.

Overview: Investing in Turkey can grant residency rights, with the potential for permanent residency after maintaining the investment for a specified period.

Requirements:

• Minimum investment amount as specified by Turkish regulations (e.g., purchasing property worth at least $400,000).
• Commitment to retain the investment for a designated period (e.g., three years).
• Valid health insurance.
• No criminal record.

Navigating Turkey’s residency options can be complex, but understanding these pathways can help you plan your long-term stay effectively.

How to apply for a Turkish visa as a U.S. citizen

Applying for a Turkish visa as an American involves several clear steps. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Identify the right visa or permit

Decide whether you need a residence permit (short-term, family, long-term), work permit, or investment-based permit based on your situation.

2. Gather your documents

• Valid U.S. passport
• Recent passport-sized photos
• Proof of address in Turkey
• Financial documentation showing sufficient funds
• Health insurance valid in Turkey
• Additional documents depending on visa type (e.g., job offer, marriage certificate, investment records)

3. Apply online or at a Turkish consulate

For most residence permits, start by creating an account and filling out the application at the Turkish government’s official e-ikamet website.

For work or investment permits, your employer or legal representative may need to submit the application on your behalf.

4. Schedule and attend your appointment

• Book an appointment at the nearest Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi).
• Bring all required documents and originals for verification.

5. Pay the application fees

Fees vary by permit type and duration, payable online or at your appointment.

6. Await approval and collect your permit

• Processing times can range from a few weeks to several months.
• Once approved, pick up your permit or receive it by mail.

Healthcare options for Americans living in Turkey

Navigating healthcare as an American living in Turkey can feel daunting at first, but you have several good options. Understanding how the Turkish system works—and where private care or international insurance fits in—helps you make confident choices for yourself and your family.

How the Turkish healthcare system works

Turkey offers a mix of public and private healthcare:

• The public system, known as SGK (Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu), provides affordable care to residents who contribute to social security.
• Most hospitals, clinics, and doctors follow modern standards, especially in larger cities.
• Many physicians have trained abroad and English-speaking doctors are common in private facilities.
• Emergency care is available to everyone, but routine services require registration and contributions.

Healthcare options for Americans living in Turkey

As an American expat, you generally have three main options:

• Public healthcare (SGK): If you’re employed locally or registered for a residence permit, you may be eligible to enroll in SGK. Monthly contributions grant you access to public hospitals and clinics at low cost.
• Private health insurance: Many expats opt for private policies—either Turkish or international providers—for faster service, English-speaking staff, and broader choice of doctors or hospitals.
• Out-of-pocket payments: Private care is often much more affordable than in the U.S., so some choose to pay directly for routine doctor visits or minor procedures.

Pros and cons to healthcare for American expats living in Turkey

Pros:

• High standard of care, especially in private facilities.
• Significantly lower costs compared to the U.S., both for insurance and direct payments.
• Easy access to specialists and rapid appointment scheduling in private clinics.

Cons:

• Public systems can involve wait times and may lack English-speaking staff outside big cities.
• Some medications and treatments common in the U.S. might require special import or be unavailable.
• Navigating the bureaucracy for SGK enrollment or reimbursement can require patience and Turkish language skills.

With the right information, you can choose the healthcare path in Turkey that best fits your needs and provides peace of mind while living abroad.

Cost of living for American expats living in Turkey

Understanding the cost of living in Turkey compared to the U.S. can help you plan your finances and avoid surprises when you arrive. Many Americans find Turkey to be much more affordable, especially in everyday essentials like groceries, housing, and transportation. However, some imported goods or international services may actually cost more. Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you get your bearings:

Expenses	Turkey (Istanbul, avg.)	U.S. (New York, avg.)	Notes for Expats
Groceries	$200/month	$450/month	Local products are affordable; imported brands cost more
Housing (1BR apt, city center)	$450/month	$3,200/month	Significant savings; prices lower in smaller cities
Public Transport	$30/month	$127/month	Efficient metro, trams, and buses in major cities
Phone Plan (SIM, 5GB data)	$10/month	$45/month	Bring an unlocked phone for best deals
Dining Out (mid-range for two)	$25	$80	Eating out is budget-friendly in Turkey

Pros:

• Your dollar goes much further: local salaries are lower, but expat incomes or retirement funds offer strong purchasing power.
• Affordable healthcare, housing, and daily expenses make it easier to save or enjoy a higher quality of life.
• Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive, reducing the need for a car.

Cons:

• Some imported goods (specialty foods, electronics, international clothing brands) can be pricier than in the U.S. due to taxes and import fees.
• Rent in Istanbul and other expat-popular areas has risen sharply in recent years.
• Navigating contracts, rental agreements, and utilities may require help if you’re not fluent in Turkish.

Living in Turkey as an American expat offers real cost savings, but it’s wise to plan for a few local quirks—especially if you rely on U.S.-style brands or services. You’ll find your daily life can be both comfortable and affordable, with a little flexibility and openness to local alternatives.

Where do American expats tend to live in Turkey?

• Istanbul: As Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul hosts the biggest American expat community. The neighborhoods of Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, and Cihangir are especially popular for their vibrant culture, international schools, and easy access to cafes, shops, and public transport.
• Ankara: The capital city attracts diplomats, international teachers, and those working with NGOs. Areas like Çankaya and Gaziosmanpaşa offer a mix of modern apartment living and proximity to embassies and foreign businesses.
• Izmir: Known for its coastal charm and relaxed pace, Izmir draws Americans looking for a more laid-back lifestyle. Many expats settle in neighborhoods like Alsancak or Karşıyaka, which combine seaside living with urban amenities.
• Antalya: With its warm climate and beautiful Mediterranean coastline, Antalya is a favorite among retirees and remote workers. Expats often choose areas like Lara Beach or Konyaaltı for their friendly communities and resort-like atmosphere.

Tax implications for Americans living in Turkey

Navigating taxes as an American living in Turkey can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help you make sense of your obligations and opportunities. Even though you’re building a life abroad—maybe enjoying the Bosphorus sunsets or savoring Turkish coffee in İzmir—you’re still connected to the U.S. tax system. Let’s break down what you need to know, step by step.

American expat tax obligations

As American expats and tax experts, we know the most common questions you face: “Do I still have to file U.S. taxes? What about the income I earn in Turkey? Are there ways to avoid double taxation?” If you’ve ever worried about missing a form or getting hit with penalties, you’re not alone. Here’s a clear, CPA-backed explanation of what’s required and what’s possible:

Filing U.S. tax returns

Yes, you still need to file a U.S. tax return, no matter where you live. The U.S. is one of the only countries that taxes citizens based on citizenship, not just residence. If your worldwide income exceeds the IRS filing threshold (for 2025, $14,600 for single filers under 65), you’re required to file—even if all your income came from Turkish sources.

You may qualify for automatic filing extensions (until June 15) if you’re living abroad, but interest on any tax due still accrues from April 15.

Turkish taxes

Living in Turkey means you may also have to file and pay Turkish taxes, depending on your residency and income situation.

• Tax residency: If you live in Turkey for more than six months in a calendar year, you’re generally considered a Turkish tax resident and taxed on your worldwide income.
• Non-residents: If you’re not a tax resident, you’ll only be taxed on income sourced in Turkey.
• Rates: Turkish income tax rates are progressive, ranging from 15% to 40%. Local rules and deductions can differ from the U.S. system, so planning ahead is smart.

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE)

One of the best tools for Americans abroad is the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion. This allows you to exclude up to $130,000 (for tax year 2025) of foreign-earned income from U.S. taxes, if you meet certain requirements:

• Physical Presence Test: You’ve been outside the U.S. for at least 330 full days in a 12-month period.
• Bona Fide Residence Test: You’re a legal resident of Turkey for an uninterrupted tax year.

The FEIE applies to earned income (like salaries or wages), not investment or rental income.

Foreign Tax Credit (FTC)

If you pay income taxes to Turkey—which you likely will if you’re working locally—you can often claim a U.S. tax credit for those taxes, reducing or eliminating double taxation. The Foreign Tax Credit is especially helpful if your Turkish tax rate is higher than what you’d owe the IRS.

Tax treaty

The United States and Turkey have a tax treaty, designed to prevent double taxation and clarify which country gets to tax certain types of income (like pensions or dividends). The treaty doesn’t exempt you from filing, but it can provide relief in specific situations, such as:

• Avoiding double Social Security taxes for certain employees.
• Determining how pensions are taxed.
• Clarifying residency status for tax purposes.

Treaties can be complex, so we recommend consulting a tax professional if you have income streams like royalties, pensions, or investments. 

Reporting foreign bank accounts

If you have Turkish bank accounts with a combined value of more than $10,000 at any point during the year, you must file a Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR). This is separate from your tax return and is required even if you don’t owe any U.S. tax.

• Example: If you keep savings in a Turkish bank, plus a joint account with your spouse, and together they cross $10,000, you must report them.
• There are steep penalties for missing this, so it’s crucial to stay on top of your reporting.

Social Security

If you’re working for a Turkish employer, you’ll generally pay into Turkey’s social security system. However, the United States and Turkey do not have a totalization agreement, so there’s no provision to avoid double social security taxation or to combine work credits for benefits. This means Americans working in Turkey may be required to contribute to both U.S. and Turkish social security systems if they have income subject to both.

By understanding these requirements—and the tools available—you can avoid surprises and make the most of your expat experience in Turkey. If you ever feel unsure, reach out to a trusted expat tax advisor who understands both U.S. and Turkish systems.Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re looking for more information or need personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Get in touch today and let us help you achieve your goals with confidence!

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