Moving Guide
Visa & Residence
Navigating the visa and residence permit process in Turkey is a crucial first step, and its specifics largely depend on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, particularly those within the European Union, may enjoy visa-free entry for a limited period, but for stays exceeding this or for specific purposes like work or study, a residence permit is mandatory. Non-EU citizens typically require a visa even for short stays, which then serves as a prerequisite for applying for a longer-term residence permit.
Common routes for obtaining a residence permit include:
- Work Permit: If you have secured employment with a Turkish company, your employer will typically initiate the work permit application process on your behalf. Once approved, this often leads to a work-based residence permit.
- Family Residence Permit: If you are married to a Turkish citizen or hold a valid residence permit, you may be eligible for a family-based residence permit.
- Student Residence Permit: For those enrolling in Turkish universities or language courses, a student residence permit is the appropriate route.
- Short-Term Residence Permit: This is a general category for various purposes, including tourism (for stays longer than visa-free limits), property ownership, or business establishment.
It is absolutely essential to verify the most current requirements and procedures directly with official Turkish government sources, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Directorate General of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi). Regulations can change, so always consult the latest official information relevant to your specific nationality and intended purpose of stay.
Housing & Rental
Finding suitable accommodation in Turkey can be an exciting part of your relocation. The housing market varies significantly between major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, and smaller towns or rural areas. Here’s a general overview of how to approach it:
- How to find housing:
- Online Portals: Websites specializing in real estate listings are the most common way to start your search. These platforms allow you to filter by location, price, size, and amenities.
- Real Estate Agents (Emlakçı): Engaging a local real estate agent can be very beneficial, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area or the language. They have access to a wider range of properties and can guide you through the local rental process. Be aware that agents typically charge a commission, usually a percentage of the annual rent.
- Word-of-Mouth/Social Media: Sometimes, properties become available through expat groups or local networks.
- Typical Rental Process: Once you find a suitable property, you'll typically sign a rental agreement (kira sözleşmesi) with the landlord. This contract should be in Turkish and ideally translated for your understanding. It will outline the rental period, monthly rent, payment terms, and responsibilities of both parties.
- Deposits: It is standard practice to pay a security deposit (depozito), usually equivalent to one or two months' rent. This deposit is held by the landlord to cover any potential damages or unpaid bills at the end of your tenancy and should be returned to you upon vacating the property, provided it is left in good condition.
- Temporary vs. Long-Term: Many newcomers opt for temporary accommodation upon arrival, such as serviced apartments or short-term rentals, to give themselves time to explore different neighborhoods and secure a long-term lease. This allows for a more informed decision and reduces pressure during the initial settling-in phase. Long-term leases are typically for one year, renewable annually.
What Affects the Cost of Your Move
The total cost of your relocation to Turkey is influenced by several key factors. Understanding these can help you budget effectively, though exact figures will always come from a personalized quote:
- Volume of Goods: This is arguably the biggest determinant. The more items you need to move, the larger the container or space required, directly impacting shipping costs. Decluttering significantly before your move can lead to substantial savings.
- Distance: The geographical distance between your current location and your new home in Turkey plays a major role. Longer distances generally mean higher transportation costs, whether by sea, air, or land.
- Seasonality: Moving during peak seasons (e.g., summer months, end of year) can often be more expensive due to higher demand for moving services and potentially increased shipping rates. Off-peak moves can sometimes offer better value.
- Access at Origin and Destination: Ease of access for removal vehicles at both your old and new homes can affect costs. Properties with difficult access (e.g., narrow streets, no elevator for high floors, long walks to the front door) may incur additional charges for specialized equipment or extra labor.
- Extra Services: Opting for additional services will add to your overall cost. These can include:
- Packing and Unpacking: Professional packing and unpacking services save you time and effort.
- Disassembly and Reassembly: For furniture that needs to be taken apart and put back together.
- Storage: If there's a gap between moving out and moving in.
- Specialty Item Handling: For delicate, oversized, or high-value items requiring specific care.
- Insurance: Highly recommended to protect your belongings during transit.
For a precise estimate tailored to your specific needs, always request a free, no-obligation quote from a reputable relocation service.
Timeline & Packing Tips
A well-organized timeline is essential for a smooth relocation. Here’s a general 4-8 week checklist to guide you, along with crucial packing tips:
8 Weeks Before Your Move:
- Declutter Ruthlessly: Go through all your belongings. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Less to move means less cost and less stress.
- Research & Get Quotes: Start researching relocation companies and obtain quotes.
- Verify Visa/Residence Requirements: Double-check all official requirements for your entry and stay in Turkey.
- Gather Important Documents: Start compiling passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic records, medical records, and any other vital paperwork.
6 Weeks Before Your Move:
- Book Your Relocation Service: Confirm your chosen moving company and schedule your moving dates.
- Notify Landlord/Give Notice: If renting, provide official notice to your current landlord.
- Begin Packing Non-Essentials: Start packing items you won't need until after your move, such as seasonal decorations, books, or rarely used kitchen gadgets.
- Arrange Pet Transport: If moving with pets, research Turkey's import regulations and start making arrangements.
4 Weeks Before Your Move:
- Change of Address: Notify banks, credit card companies, subscriptions, and friends/family of your upcoming move.
- Utilities & Services: Arrange for the disconnection of utilities (electricity, gas, internet, water) at your current home and research how to set them up in Turkey.
- Medical & Dental Check-ups: Schedule any necessary appointments for yourself and your family. Obtain copies of prescriptions.
- Prepare an "Essentials Box": Pack a box with items you'll need immediately upon arrival (toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, important documents, chargers).
2 Weeks Before Your Move:
- Confirm Travel Plans: Finalize flights and temporary accommodation in Turkey.
- Finish Packing: Complete all general packing. Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room.
- Clean Out Fridge/Pantry: Start consuming perishable food items.
- Back Up Computers/Phones: Ensure all digital data is securely backed up.
1 Week Before Your Move:
- Finalize Utilities: Confirm disconnection dates for current utilities.
- Withdraw Local Currency: Have some local currency for immediate expenses upon arrival.
- Pack "Essentials Box": Ensure this box is easily accessible and travels with you.
- Charge Electronics: Make sure phones, laptops, and other devices are charged for travel.
For a smooth and stress-free move to Turkey, request a free quote from relocation123.com today!
Visas, immigration & documents
Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.
- Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
- Document translation & apostille
- Customs clearance for personal effects
- Travel & goods insurance
Customs & Import Rules
Moving to Turkey: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide
Relocating to Turkey involves navigating specific customs regulations for your personal belongings. This guide provides a clear overview to help ensure a smooth import process for your household goods.
Key things to know
- Your goods must be used and arrive within a specific timeframe relative to your entry.
- A detailed inventory with serial numbers for electronics is mandatory.
- "Packed by owner" boxes are not permitted for customs clearance.
- You'll need a Turkish tax number or foreign citizen ID.
- Bandroll tax applies to many electronic entertainment devices.
- Certain items, like new or high quantities of food, alcohol, and cleaning supplies, are prohibited or restricted.
If you're relocating as a new resident
As a foreigner moving to Turkey, you can import your used household goods. Ensure your inventory is thorough, listing brand names and serial numbers for all electrical items. All goods must be used, and the consignee on your shipping document must match your full name as it appears on your passport.
What you'll need
- Original passport with your last entry stamp into Turkey.
- Entry and Exit Report for the last 3 years from the police station.
- Turkish tax number or foreign citizen ID number.
- Power of attorney, notarized by a public notary, authorizing port brokers to act on your behalf.
- Rental contract (minimum 12 months duration) certified by a notary, or a notarized title deed of your residence in Turkey.
- Customs documents provided by your moving company for your signature.
Good to know
- Your goods must arrive in Turkey no more than 2 months before or 6 months after your last entry into the country.
- A "bandroll tax" will be applied to items such as TVs, Hi-fi systems, VCRs, DVD & CD players, videos, radios, satellite receivers, home cinema systems, and projectors.
Moving after marriage
If you are a foreigner moving to Turkey due to marriage, the same general requirements for new residents apply, with additional conditions related to your marriage.
What you'll need
- All documents required for new foreign residents.
Good to know
- Your goods must arrive in Turkey within 6 months of your marriage date.
- Your Turkish spouse must have resided in Turkey for the last year.
- Bandroll tax will be levied on electronic entertainment devices.
Returning Turkish citizens (stayed abroad more than 2 years)
Turkish citizens returning after residing abroad for over two years can import their used household goods under specific conditions.
What you'll need
- Permanent return certificate from the nearest Turkish consulate in your origin country, confirming your 24-month (or more) stay abroad.
- Power of attorney, notarized by a public notary, authorizing port brokers to act on your behalf.
- Spouse’s passport and marriage certificate (if applicable).
- ID certificate from the Registry Office or E-Devlet (Nüfus müdürlüğünden vukuatlı nüfus kayıt örneği).
- Customs documents provided by your moving company for your signature.
Good to know
- During the last 24 months, you must not have stayed in Turkey for more than 6 months per year.
- If you cannot obtain the return certificate, a notarized 1-year rental contract or title deed can be used as an alternative, provided you still meet the two-year residency abroad requirement.
- Bandroll tax will be levied on electronic entertainment devices.
Returning Turkish citizens (stayed abroad less than 2 years)
If you are a Turkish citizen returning after less than two years abroad, your import is limited to goods you previously exported from Turkey.
What you'll need
- Notarized title deed or rental contract for a house in Turkey.
- Original Customs Export Declaration from your previous export.
- Original Export Packing List from your previous export.
- ID certificate from the Registry Office or E-Devlet (Nüfus müdürlüğünden vukuatlı nüfus kayıt örneği).
- Customs documents provided by your moving company for your signature.
- Copy of customs export declaration and packing list from the previous export.
Good to know
- Import is only permitted for the same goods that were previously exported.
- The imported goods must match the volume, pieces, and weight on your original Export Declaration and Export Packing List. A maximum increase of 10% in volume is allowed, but no additional goods can be added.
- Bandroll tax will be levied on electronic entertainment devices.
Returning Turkish Diplomats and Government Officers
Turkish diplomats and government officers returning to Turkey have specific import procedures.
What you'll need
- Assignment letter from the relevant Government Office.
- Customs documents provided by your moving company for your signature.
Good to know
- Bandroll tax will be levied on electronic entertainment devices.
Foreign Diplomats
Foreign diplomats moving to Turkey benefit from special import allowances and procedures.
What you'll need
- Diplomatic import permit from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Copy of your passport, including the last entry stamp.
- Diplomatic ID Card.
- Authorization letter from your Embassy or Consulate.
- Customs documents provided by your moving company for your signature.
Good to know
- Your inventory must be detailed, including brand names and serial numbers for all electrical items.
- Import of alcohol is permitted for diplomats, limited to an annual quota of 240 bottles per diplomat, as agreed by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Bringing special items
Vehicles
Additional tires are generally not allowed for import, except for the single spare tire that is part of the vehicle. Used gasoline cans are also prohibited.
Pets
Live animals are generally prohibited from being included in household goods consignments.
Restricted & prohibited items
As a general rule, only used household goods are permitted. Even small quantities of leftover food or cosmetics can cause issues. The following items are strictly prohibited or highly restricted:
- Aerosols containing flammables
- Ant farms
- Bleach
- Currency
- Explosives
- Pornographic material
- Paint
- Cigarettes
- Propane tanks
- Used gasoline cans
- Weapons or firearms
- Toner cartridges for printers
- Pet food
- High quantities and/or unopened cosmetics (e.g., shampoo, deodorant, make-up - forbidden for air shipment, not recommended for sea shipment)
- High quantities and/or unopened cleaning supplies (e.g., detergent)
- Ammunition
- Aquariums with water
- Coin or stamp collections
- Deeds, securities, special papers/documents
- Gun powder
- Live animals
- Food or alcohol (e.g., rice, dry food, soy sauce, Nori, wine)
- Unsealed liquids
- Plants (live or dried)
- Jewellery, precious stones
- Medication without a prescription
- Lithium batteries (must be removed from all electronics in an air shipment)
- Foosball tables
- Drones
Alcohol & tobacco
Cigarettes are prohibited. Food and alcohol are generally prohibited from being imported with household goods, except for specific diplomatic allowances.
Frequently asked questions
What if my inventory isn't detailed?
Your inventory must be comprehensive, including brand names and serial numbers for all electrical items. An insufficient inventory can cause delays or issues.
Can I pack some boxes myself?
No, items declared as "packed by owner" are not permitted for customs clearance.
Is there a time limit for my goods to arrive?
For new residents, your goods must arrive within 2 months before or 6 months after your last entry into Turkey. For those moving after marriage, goods must arrive within 6 months of the marriage date.
Do I need a local address before my shipment arrives?
Yes, you'll need a rental contract (min. 12 months) or a title deed for a residence in Turkey, both certified by a notary.
What is a "bandroll tax"?
This is a tax levied on various electronic entertainment devices such as TVs, Hi-fi systems, DVD players, radios, and home cinema systems.
Can I import new items with my used household goods?
Generally, no. Only used household goods are permitted. Even small quantities of new items like unopened cosmetics or food can cause problems.
For personalized assistance with your move to Turkey and to ensure all customs requirements are met, please contact relocation123.com.
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asya International Movers | Resitpasa Mah. Degirmentepe Aykan Sok No: 18/2Em | English, French, German, Japanese | FIDI, IAM | → |
| Bergen International Movers Lojistik AS | 1.Cadde, Gulgonca sok, No: 35 Zekeriyakoy -- Sar | Dutch, English, French, German, Italian | EURA, FIDI, IAM | → |
| Asya International Movers Company Ltd. | Ataturk Bulvari 127/2 BakanliklarAnkara, 6640Tür | Arabic, English | FIDI, IAM | → |
| DTN International Movers Pty. Ltd. | Dinc Sok. No:4 Muyar Plaza Kat:9 Daire:8 Camlik | English | IAM | → |
| Master Global Lojistik Ve Dis Tic. Ltd. | Hastane Mah. Oğuz Ata Sok. No: 10/E Hadımköy Arn | English | IAM | → |
| Alfa Omega World Movers Ltd. Sti. | Teknik Yapi Concord A Blok D 48 Yumurtaci Abdi B | English, French, German, Polish | IAM | → |
| Dogancay Nakliyat Ticaret Anonim Sirketi | Bahcekapi Mahallesi Sogutozu Caddesi No. 20 Etim | English, Spanish | FEDEMAC, IAM | → |
| Soyer International Moving Company | Bağdat Cad. No : 125 / 8 P.K. 34724 Feneryolu / | Arabic, English | IAM | → |
| Bafa International Movers | Sahrayicedit Mah. Guzide Sok. No. 13/6 Hayrioglu | English, German, Russian | IAM | → |
| Istanbul Ekspres Co. | Inonu Mahallesi Batı Bulvarı No: 83 Batıkent | Arabic, English | IAM | → |
| Esen Int'l Transportation & Trade Co. Ltd. | Mevlana Bulvari Yelken Plaza No: 139/47 Kat 16An | English | IAM | → |
| Bedel Mobility Solutions | Resitpasa Mahallesi, Degirmentepe Aykan Sokak No | Arabic | EURA | → |
| Sumerman International Moving & Relocation Co. Ltd. | 40/A Celik Sokak Ferahevler, SariyerIstanbulTürk | Arabic, English | EURA, IAM | → |
| Protrans Profesyonel Esya Transferi Lojistik San. Ve Tic. Ltd. Sti. | Piri Pasa Mah, Haskoy Cad No 76 Kat 2/4 BeyogluI | — | IAM | → |
| Benice Fine Art & Relocation | Albay Faik Sozdener Caddesi No: 9/8, KadikoyIsta | Arabic, English | IAM | → |
| Protrans Profesyonel Esya Transferi Lojistik San. Ve Tic. Ltd. Sti. | Cevizlidere Mah. 1238 Cad. No. 2/10 CankayaAnkar | English | IAM | → |
| 9 Ekim Group | Dereboyu Cad. Bilim Sok.No: 5 Sun Plaza Kat:13, | Arabic, English | EURA | → |
| Asya International Movers | Karacaoglan Mah 167 Sok No 26-1 IsikkentIzmirTür | Arabic, English | FIDI | → |
| Asya International Movers | Ceyhan Yolu 12 Km İncirlikAdana, 01310Türkiye | Arabic, English | — | → |
| Istanbul Danismanlik Relocation Consulting | Buyukdere cd. No. 151 Yonca apt. B Blok D.30 Ist | English | EURA | → |
| Bytr International Moving And Foreign Trade Co. Ltd. | Cihan Sokak 10/5, Sihhiye Ankara, 06430Türkiye | Arabic, English | — | → |
| Turkuvaz Relocation & Logistics Co. Ltd. | Koza1 Caddesi 142 / 7 G.O.PAnkara, 6670Türkiye | English | — | → |
| Bedel Mobility Solutions | smet Kaptan Mah. Hürriyet Bulvari Kavala Plaza N | English | EURA | → |
| Simurg International Movers | Nispetiye Cad. Levent İş Merkezi No:6B-23 Beşikt | English | IAM | → |
| United International Movers & Fine Art Logistics | Buyukdere Cad. Bentek Is Merkezi No:47 D: 54 Mec | Arabic, English | IAM | → |
| Crown World Mobility | Altýnay Iþ Merkezi No: 10 K: 6, EsentepeIstanbul | English | EURA | → |
| Specialist Relocation | Musa Dayi Sokak No:3/6 Camlica Is MerkeziMecidiy | Arabic, English | EURA | → |
| Relocalist Hizmet ve Danısmanlık Limited Sirketi | Seyrantepe Mahallesi Altinay Caddesi No 33 Floor | English | EURA | → |
| Professional Relocation Services | Konaklar Mah. Zencefil Sk. No:2/4 Istanbul, 3433 | English | EURA | → |
| Agility Lojistik Tasimacilik Antrepo Depo Hizmet Gida Ve Tekstil Mad.San.Ve Tic.Ltd.Sti. | Ruzgarlibahce Mah Cumhuriyet Cad, Acarlar Is Mer | Arabic, English | — | → |
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| Turkey Relocation Management Services | Yenikoy Mahallesi KoyBası Caddesi Su Dolabı Soka | English | EURA | → |
| GHS Lojistik Ev Ve Ofis Tasimaciligi Tic. Ltd. Sti. | Nef 12 Merter No: 3 B Blok Kat: 8 Daire: 73 Malt | English, Persian (Farsi) | FEDEMAC | → |
| Bedel Mobility Solutions | Fatih Sultan Mah Dumlupınar Bulvarı No: 406, A | Arabic, English | EURA | → |
| Metis Relocation Zeynep Beyter | Gaziosmanpasa Bul. NO:3/109Izmir, 35210Türkiye | English | EURA | → |
| Mioseta Hizmet Ve Danismanlik | Mustafa Kemal Mahallesi 2123 Sokak Cepa Ofis No: | English | EURA | → |
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| Sergikur Sergi ve Muze Destek Hizmetleri Ltd. Sti | Piri Paşa Mah. Kalaycı Bahçe Sok Number 32/A 340 | English | — | → |
| Tricon Dis Ticaret Ve Lojistik Ltd. Sti. | Orta Mah. Latife Hanim Sok. No. 14/CIstanbulTürk | — | — | → |
| Esen International Transport Co | Ceyhan Yoluke Levent Moh Girne Bu No 208AdanaTür | Arabic, English | — | → |
| Soyer International Moving Co. | Sair Esref Bulvari No:48 3 TUZCUOGLU 'S MERKEZIA | Arabic, English | — | → |
| Goztepe Nakliyat Global Lojistik Anonim Sirketi | Fahrettin Kerim Gokay Cad. Poyraz Sokak Nokta is | — | — | → |
| Home Transturk International Movers | Istiklal Mah. Bahce Sok. No.15/3 UmraniyeIstanbu | English | — | → |
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| AYS Logistics | Bahcesehir 2. Kisim Mah. Oz Uyum Sit. C BlokKati | English | — | → |
| Alfam Nakliyat Tur Dan Tic Ltd Sti | 1408 Sok No. 6 D. 3 IzmirTürkiye | — | — | → |
| Turkey Expat Services | Yakacik Carsi Mahallesi Cam Sokak Cinar Apartman | English | — | → |
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| Istanbul Ekspres Nakliyat Ve Ticaret A.S. | Ceyhan Yolu E-5 Karayou 5 Km AdanaTürkiye | Arabic, English | — | — |
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