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Living In Istanbul As A Foreigner: 9 Things You Should Know

Updated: Aug 4, 2022

From tourist to expat, if you are considering living in Istanbul as a foreigner, it is a fantastic lifestyle choice. Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, has a low cost of living, unique culture and shopping scene in the country, and an abundance of tourist and historical sites. Moving here means embracing a different way of life than the Western world while remaining on the cutting edge of trends. Be sure to check it out for yourself.


Many working expats select the city to advance their careers, while some retirees pick it as a temporary base to visit a region that has shaped events throughout the world and history. While some say just pack your bags and come, we always say that a little planning, particularly for well-travelled expatriates, is beneficial. So, in this post, we will look at what you need to know when relocating to your home country, such as residence visas, health insurance, and the finest places to live, among other things.



Foreigner Residing in Istanbul


Where to Live?

The first step is to determine whether you want to rent or buy a home. Some people rent for six months while they research the market, while others jump right on the property ladder. The good news is that Istanbul has 39 designated districts, giving residents a diverse range of neighbourhoods to select from. Some have a specific reputation for excellence in one field. Levent, for example, is regarded as a business district that attracts working professionals.


Foreigners' Residency Visas and Healthcare


Sticking to priorities, after choosing a place to live, begin the process of applying for a resident visa. People entering Turkey on a tourist visa can currently stay for 90 days out of 180 days, thus it is best to begin the residency procedure as soon as possible. Your first application will be approved for a year. Expats in Turkey over the age of 65 are not required to have health insurance, although many do so for peace of mind. Because private plans can be expensive, most foreigners prefer the government SGK scheme.



May I Work in Istanbul?


Some foreigners relocate here to advance their careers. Others work as English teachers or nannies for working families. Most schools need applicants to hold a TEFL certificate to teach. However, to work, you must also have a work permit. Failure to comply may result in a fine and deportation. The employer must apply for permission and depending on their trade and purpose for the company, they must follow particular restrictions such as employing five Turkish workers for every foreigner. Foreigners are not permitted to work in the healthcare profession, the legal or maritime fields, security and customs, or as tourist guides.


Utilizing Public Transportation


This is when your wits will be tested, as the roadways become busy. Avoid travelling during rush hour if at all feasible. Small buses are used by locals to go around small neighbourhoods. They are inexpensive yet crowded. To move around to neighbouring districts, there are 400 bus routes, yellow taxis, and two trams that cover the major areas on the European side.


The metro has witnessed enormous expansions over the years and is used by many locals. The ferry service visiting tiny towns and villages along the Bosporus is a local tradition. On the Anatolian side, prominent ferry ports include Uskudar and Kadikoy, and on the European side, Eminonu. We recommend purchasing an Istanbul Kart and loading it to save money on transportation.


Is Istanbul a Safe City?


Naturally, crime occurs, as it does in any large metropolis around the world. However, according to a recent report created in collaboration with the US consulate general in Istanbul, "despite being Turkey's largest metropolitan city, Istanbul's crime statistics as they relate to foreigners are quite low." The local council also stated that crime rates had decreased across the board at the start of 2020. The trick is to avoid becoming a victim of opportunity crime by acting, in the same way, you would in your home country, such as only taking licensed taxis, refusing beverages from strangers, strapping your purse across your shoulder, and so on. In terms of terrorism, officials do an excellent job of keeping the public secure and safe.


Weather & Climate Throughout the Year


According to the CSA classification, Turkey has various climatic zones due to its enormous size, with Istanbul bordering the Mediterranean. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching 35 degrees. The rainiest months are December through February, and snowfall is prevalent. Many people utilize air conditioning systems to heat their homes, which blow chilly in the summer and hot in the winter. Alternatively, radiators are installed in some new construction properties.


Expat Social Circles and Communities


Naturally, in addition to immersing themselves in the local culture, some foreigners desire to stay in touch with others in similar situations. Foreigners who have lived in Istanbul for a long time can provide important knowledge and are familiar with the system. Sociable expats will have no trouble fitting in and making new acquaintances. Look for groups on Facebook that discuss meets and get-togethers. Certain neighbourhoods are well-known for their expat communities, and they are perfect areas to relocate and make friends from all over the world. Beyoglu, Cihangir, Cukurcuma, Galata, Tophane, Besiktas, Maslak, Sisli, and Bebek are among them.



The Language Barrier: Speaking Turkish


We know expats who have lived in Turkey for years yet do not speak the language. Because Istanbul is Turkey's most popular tourist destination, many inhabitants speak a variety of languages, including Arabic, English, German, Russian, and Chinese. You'll also hear common phrases like Hos Geldin, which means "welcome," on a daily basis. Hire a translation for formal chores to make the process go more smoothly.


Furthermore, notary and title deed offices require foreigners to engage a translator by law while purchasing a property. Aside from that, if you wander into more traditional neighbourhoods, you may encounter some difficulties, so acquire a translation app on your phone. We recommend devoting a few hours to mastering words and grammar.


Living Cost


The good news is that, due to the current high exchange rate, foreigners earning a paycheck in another currency are quid's in, thus Istanbul may be as cheap or as costly as you wish. Rents in key areas, like Taksim, are high, but you can cut your costs in half by moving to other districts. Expat property owners who live alone and don't have a mortgage or rent to pay should spend around 5,000 lire per month.


There are always ways to save money as well. Avoid tourist restaurants, for example, and eat where the locals do. Also, find out when the local weekly market is in your new neighbourhood. You can obtain a whole grocery store of fruits, veggies, and dairy items for next to nothing here. If you intend to stay for an extended period of time, major internet and cell phone companies promise exceptional value for money on their packages.


Handy Tip: Many retired expats sell their property in their home country and then put the proceeds in Turkey's high-interest savings accounts. After paying taxes, they extract the interest and live off of it each month to supplement their pensions. Look around for attractive rates at banks because, depending on how much you deposit, they presently give between 5% and 8%.


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