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Navigating Turkey as an Expat from the UK

27th February 2025

Are you an expat looking to move to Turkey? Our blog will explore the top expat communities in Turkey, the real estate market, how to navigate it, popular jobs and industries with the most vacancies, and how to apply for your working visa.  Read through our blog to learn what you need to know about moving to Turkey.

Top Expat Communities in Turkey

 

Istanbul

Istanbul is a vibrant city with a rich history and modern flair. Known for its lively atmosphere, diverse culture, and great cuisine. It is also a major economic hub, especially in finance and banking. The average property price there is around £100,000, making it accessible for many expats. For international living, Çırağan is a top choice, offering luxury and convenience, while Sarıyer attracts wealthy retirees seeking a peaceful yet cosmopolitan environment. For families, Etiler provides a family-friendly atmosphere, and Kadıköy, on the Asian side, offers a high quality of life with excellent transport links to the rest of the city.

Bursa

Bursa is known for its old-world charm, with stunning Ottoman-era architecture and lush natural landscapes. The Mudanya district, famous for its fishing culture, historical houses, and olive oil production, is particularly popular among expats. With excellent connections to Istanbul and a significantly lower cost of living, Bursa offers a unique blend of urban and rural life. Uludağ, the mountain resort area, attracts visitors year-round, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventurers. Affordable housing, a growing economy, and scenic views make Bursa a smart choice for investment.

Ankara

As Turkey’s capital and political centre, Ankara is home to a large expat community of working professionals and university students. While its daily life is bustling, the city offers a quieter nightlife than other areas in Turkey. Çankaya, Çıkrıbaşı, and Ortaköy are popular neighbourhoods for families and those looking to settle down. Ankara is also a hub for education, with free schooling available for children aged 6 to 18, alongside an array of public and private schools, including international ones. The city is perfect for sports enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those interested in engaging in Turkish politics and society.

Antalya

Located on Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast, Antalya is one of the fastest-growing expat destinations in the country. With its turquoise beaches, mild climate, and perfect balance of urban and beach life, it’s no wonder expats from all over the world are moving here. Altıntaş, an emerging area near the city, is known for affordable housing options and a vibrant community. Expats here enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities for socialising and engaging in hobbies. Antalya’s thriving real estate market also makes it a fantastic location for property investment.

Izmir

Izmir offers a unique combination of a laid-back lifestyle and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for expats who are looking for a balanced life. Turkey’s third-largest city is known for its vibrant social scene, excellent dining options, and cultural attractions. With five international schools and a blend of traditional Turkish culture and modern, forward-thinking trends, Izmir is also a key hub for business and tourism. British expats seem to flock to districts like Çeşme and Alaçatı, and while the cost of living is a bit higher than in other regions, its excellent transport and lifestyle options make it well worth it. 

Bodrum

Turkey’s stunning west coast is a picture-perfect destination known for its beautiful waterfront, luxury resorts, and vibrant expat community. Expats particularly favour Yalıkavak, a picturesque town with high-end living options. Bodrum itself can be pricey, but its unique charm and diverse cultural offerings make it a standout. The city is renowned for its lively arts scene, local clubs, bars, and festivals, alongside reliable public transport connections, including bus, taxi, and even boat services. A large expat population, especially retirees and families, makes this area feel like home, creating a welcoming, cosmopolitan environment.

 

Perhaps you are considering relocating your staff to an international office. If so, check out information on our employee relocation service. 

The Real Estate Market in Turkey

 

The real estate market in Turkey is vibrant, fast-paced, and full of opportunity. However, prices can fluctuate significantly, especially depending on the region or city you’re considering. For example, in Istanbul, you can expect to pay around £100,000 for an average property, though prices in affluent neighbourhoods like Çırağan or Sarıyer can be much higher. In Bursa, you’ll find more affordable options, with average prices hovering around £60,000–£70,000, and in Antalya and Izmir, properties can range from £80,000 to £120,000 depending on size. Bodrum is one of the priciest areas, with property prices starting at around £150,000 in popular expat areas like Yalıkavak. Of course, these prices can be influenced by seasonal trends, demand, and the influx of foreign investment following the recent legal changes that now allow non-citizens to purchase property in Turkey. Though, some regions still have restrictions, so it’s crucial to do your research before deciding on an area.

Buying Property in Turkey

When it comes to buying property in Turkey, there’s a lot to consider. Whether you’re looking for a permanent home or a rental while you get settled, the process can be straightforward if you follow the right steps.

Property Research

Before making any commitments, you should research and make a checklist of what you want. Identify your budget, preferred location, and the must-have features you want in your property. Visiting the area or neighbourhood in person is always a good idea to get a feel for the place before making a decision. What’s the local vibe like? Are there amenities nearby? How’s the transport situation? These are the kinds of questions you’ll want to answer before diving into the market.

2. Legal Checks

   Once you’ve found a property you’re interested in, legal checks are crucial. This means ensuring the title deed is legitimate, confirming that there are no outstanding mortgages on the property, and checking that the property complies with all Turkish regulations. Make sure the property’s documentation is in order, including any zoning laws, especially in areas with heavy development or redevelopment. It is worth talking to a solicitor or legal advisor to help you with this part of the process. 

5. Negotiations & Agreements

   Negotiating the price with the seller is often straightforward, but be sure you’re clear on the terms. Once you and the seller have agreed on the price, a draft sales agreement will be drawn up. It’s important to have this agreement reviewed thoroughly by a professional, particularly if you don’t speak Turkish fluently.

 

1. Official Sales & Paperwork

   The final step in buying property in Turkey is the official sale. This involves transferring the title deed through the local land registry office. The sale is usually completed through a notary, who will ensure that all paperwork is in order and the funds are properly transferred. All of the official documents must be in Turkish to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings. You will also need a Turkish bank account for transferring the funds and completing the transaction.

Ready to move to Turkey? Enquire today by sending a form or calling us on 01638 515335.

Industries and the Job Market

Turkey’s job market is incredibly diverse, with a strong focus on sectors like tourism, construction, finance, technology, and education. Tourism is one of the biggest employers, especially in popular cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum, where there’s always demand for roles in hospitality, hotels, restaurants, and tour guides. Whether you’re managing a hotel or serving in a restaurant, there are loads of jobs available in this sector.

The construction industry is booming right now, and it’s not just in the big cities. If you have skills in trades like plumbing, electrical work, or construction management, there’s definitely a need for people in this field. Big development projects nationwide are creating jobs left, right, and centre.

In terms of tech, Turkey’s digital economy is growing fast. If you’re a software developer, web designer, in cybersecurity, or digital marketing, you’ll find plenty of jobs. There’s also a growing demand for IT professionals, especially in the big cities, where start-ups and tech firms are on the rise.

Many UK expats end up working in education, with English teachers in particular in demand at schools, private language centres, and online. The hospitality industry also attracts many Brits, especially in tourist-heavy spots like Antalya and Bodrum, where baristas, bartenders, hotel staff, and tour guides are needed. Real estate is another popular choice for expats, with many Brits working as property managers, agents, or in construction-related roles.

When you’re ready to begin your relocation to Turkey from the UK, contact a member of our friendly and experienced team to help you with your move.

Working Visas for UK Expats moving to Turkey

As a UK expat, securing the correct work visa is essential before working in Turkey. To apply for a work visa, you’ll first need a job offer from a Turkish employer, who will apply for a work permit on your behalf. The application can be submitted online through the Turkish Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s website.

The cost of the work permit varies depending on the type of job and duration of the permit, typically ranging from £50 to £150. Once your work permit is approved, you can apply for a work visa through the nearest Turkish consulate in the UK.

After legally working in Turkey for at least five years, you may be eligible to apply for Turkish residency. This allows you to live and work in the country without needing a work permit. You can apply for residency through the Directorate General of Migration Management. If you’ve purchased property in Turkey, this may speed up the process.

For more detailed information on the visa and residency process, check the official UK government website and the Turkish Ministry of Interior website for the most up-to-date requirements and guidelines.

Moving to Turkey as a UK expat opens up a world of exciting opportunities, from vibrant cities to stunning coastal regions. Each area offers unique experiences, communities, and housing options, making it essential to choose the right location that suits your lifestyle and professional needs. Explore your options and take the leap into your new adventure in Turkey!

Is your work relocating you to Turkey? Contact us today to talk to a member of our team about relocating abroad relocations.