Nederlands

Verhuis je in 2025 naar Turkije? Dit is wat je moet weten

Verhuis je in 2025 naar Turkije? Dit is wat je moet weten

luchtview van gebouwen en vliegende vogels

Turkey has become an increasingly popular destination for expats and remote workers looking for affordability and a rich cultural experience. With a cost of living significantly lower than in much of Europe, it offers great value while still providing modern amenities and a well-developed healthcare system.

The country bridges Europe and Asia, creating a unique blend of cultures. From the bustling city of Istanbul to the coastal lifestyle of Antalya and Izmir, Turkey offers a wide range of living options. With its strategic location, vibrant culture, and growing expat community, Turkey is an appealing choice for those seeking both lifestyle and opportunity.

Strong
Job Market

Strong
Job Market

Diverse economy with opportunities in manufacturing, tourism, and emerging tech sectors.

Quality of Life

Affordable cost of living with a rich cultural environment and vibrant city life.

Innovation Hub

Istanbul is a growing center for startups, fintech, and regional business.

Infrastructure

Well-developed transport network with major international airports and expanding metro systems.

World-Class Education

World-Class Education

Established universities with increasing international programs and partnerships.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle

A unique blend of East and West with dynamic cities, history, and coastal living.

700

Verified Movers

2,900

Reviews

400–1,000

Avg Local Move

7

Regions

700

Verified Movers

2,900

Reviews

400–1,000

Avg Local Move

7

Regions

700

Verified Movers

2,900

Reviews

400–1,000

Avg Local Move

7

Regions

Additional Costs to Consider

Packing Services

€150–€500

Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.

Storage

€50–€200/mo

Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.

Insurance

€100–€400

Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.

Specialty Items

€200–€800

Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.

Elevator / Stairs

€50–€200

Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.

Long Carry

€75–€250

Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.

Most Asked Questions

Do I need a visa before planning my move to Turkey?

It depends on your nationality. Many people can enter visa-free or with an e-visa for short stays, but for long-term relocation you’ll need a residence permit. If you’re moving for work, your employer usually sponsors your work permit.

How do I move my belongings to Turkey?

Most expats use international moving companies. You can choose sea freight (cost-effective, 4–8 weeks) or road freight from Europe (often faster). Door-to-door services are popular and simplify the process.

Are there restrictions on what I can bring?

Yes, Turkey has import regulations. Personal household goods are generally allowed, but items must usually be used (not new), and there are limits on electronics, alcohol, and certain valuables. Proper documentation is key to avoid delays.

Do I need to be in Turkey when my shipment arrives?

In most cases, yes. You’ll typically need a residence permit or proof of entry to clear your goods through customs. Timing your move correctly can prevent storage fees or delays.

Should I ship everything or buy furniture locally?

Turkey has a strong furniture market, often at lower prices than many Western countries. Many expats bring personal belongings but buy bulky items locally, especially if renting a furnished apartment.

What is the cost of living and relocation like?

Turkey is generally more affordable than most of Europe. Rent, food, and services can be quite reasonable, although prices vary by city (Istanbul is the most expensive). Moving costs depend on shipment size and distance.

Moving Costs Breakdown

Moving Costs Breakdown

Understanding the full cost of your move

helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.

Local Movers

International

Long Distance

Local Moving Costs

Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.

Studio / 1 Bed

$150 – $400

2–3 Bed Apartment

$150 – $400

4+ Bed / House

$900 – $1,800

Local Movers

International

Long Distance

Local Moving Costs

Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.

Studio / 1 Bed

$150 – $400

2–3 Bed Apartment

$150 – $400

4+ Bed / House

$900 – $1,800

Additional Costs to Consider

Packing Services

$100 – $300

Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.

Storage

$40–$150 / month

Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.

Insurance

$80–$250

Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.

Specialty Items

$150–$600

Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.

Elevator / Stairs

$50–$180

Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.

Long Carry

$60–$200

Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.

Additional Costs to Consider

Packing Services

$100 – $300

Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.

Storage

$40–$150 / month

Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.

Insurance

$80–$250

Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.

Specialty Items

$150–$600

Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.

Elevator / Stairs

$50–$180

Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.

Long Carry

$60–$200

Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.

Additional Costs to Consider

Packing Services

$100 – $300

Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.

Storage

$40–$150 / month

Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.

Insurance

$80–$250

Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.

Specialty Items

$150–$600

Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.

Elevator / Stairs

$50–$180

Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.

Long Carry

$60–$200

Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.

8–12 Weeks Before

· Research cities that fit your lifestyle (Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya) · Start decluttering and deciding what to ship vs. buy locally · Begin gathering quotes from verified international movers · Check passport validity and visa requirements for Turkey

6–8 Weeks Before

· Book your preferred moving company · Start your residence permit or visa application (tourist, work, or family permit) · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (SGK or private insurance)

4–6 Weeks Before

· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Research how to open a Turkish bank account (Ziraat Bank, İş Bankası, Garanti BBVA) · Organize important documents (birth certificates, medical records, notarized translations) · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts

2-4 Weeks Before

· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation (Airbnb or hotel) for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address

1-2 Weeks Before

· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to your destination city in Turkey · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps

Moving Week

· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Turkish contact details with the mover

6-8 Weeks Before

· Book your preferred moving company · Start your residence permit or visa application (tourist, work, or family permit) · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (SGK or private insurance)

6-8 Weeks Before

· Book your preferred moving company · Start your residence permit or visa application (tourist, work, or family permit) · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (SGK or private insurance)

4–6 Weeks Before

· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Research how to open a Turkish bank account (Ziraat Bank, İş Bankası, Garanti BBVA) · Organize important documents (birth certificates, medical records, notarized translations) · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts

2-4 Weeks Before

· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation (Airbnb or hotel) for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address

2-4 Weeks Before

· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation (Airbnb or hotel) for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address

1-2 Weeks Before

· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to your destination city in Turkey · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps

Moving Week

· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Turkish contact details with the mover

Moving Week

· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Turkish contact details with the mover

Most Asked Questions

Most Asked Questions

Do I need a visa before planning my move to Turkey?

It depends on your nationality. Many people can enter visa-free or with an e-visa for short stays, but for long-term relocation you’ll need a residence permit. If you’re moving for work, your employer usually sponsors your work permit.

How do I move my belongings to Turkey?

Most expats use international moving companies. You can choose sea freight (cost-effective, 4–8 weeks) or road freight from Europe (often faster). Door-to-door services are popular and simplify the process.

Are there restrictions on what I can bring?

Yes, Turkey has import regulations. Personal household goods are generally allowed, but items must usually be used (not new), and there are limits on electronics, alcohol, and certain valuables. Proper documentation is key to avoid delays.

Do I need to be in Turkey when my shipment arrives?

In most cases, yes. You’ll typically need a residence permit or proof of entry to clear your goods through customs. Timing your move correctly can prevent storage fees or delays.

Should I ship everything or buy furniture locally?

Turkey has a strong furniture market, often at lower prices than many Western countries. Many expats bring personal belongings but buy bulky items locally, especially if renting a furnished apartment.

What is the cost of living and relocation like?

Turkey is generally more affordable than most of Europe. Rent, food, and services can be quite reasonable, although prices vary by city (Istanbul is the most expensive). Moving costs depend on shipment size and distance.

Want to know more about each city?

Want to know more about each city?

Sponsors

A + Internationaal

A + Internationaal

APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, travelers, students, and businesses, offering worldwide coverage and easy access to quality healthcare.

Wervingservaring in het buitenland

Wervingservaring in het buitenland

Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.

ActiveQuote Ltd

ActiveQuote Ltd

ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.

Aetna Zorgverzekering

Aetna Zorgverzekering

Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.

Agato Visa & Immigratie

Agato Visa & Immigratie

We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.

Aims Immigratie & Verhuisspecialist

Aims Immigratie & Verhuisspecialist

AIMS provides immigration and relocation services, specializing in visas, residency, investment migration, and global mobility solutions across Asia.

April International

April International

APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.

Apt Wealth Partners

Apt Wealth Partners

Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.

AvD

AvD

AvD is Germany’s historic automobile club, promoting road safety, motorsport, driver support, and the preservation of classic vehicles.

AXA PPP Internationaal

AXA PPP Internationaal

AXA Global Healthcare provides international health insurance, giving members worldwide access to quality medical care and ongoing healthcare support.

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Schrijf je in om in contact te komen met betrouwbare lokale service-experts!

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Sponsors

A + Internationaal

APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, travelers, students, and businesses, offering worldwide coverage and easy access to quality healthcare.

Wervingservaring in het buitenland

Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.

ActiveQuote Ltd

ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.

Aetna Zorgverzekering

Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.

Agato Visa & Immigratie

We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.

Aims Immigratie & Verhuisspecialist

AIMS provides immigration and relocation services, specializing in visas, residency, investment migration, and global mobility solutions across Asia.

April International

APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.

Apt Wealth Partners

Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.

AvD

AvD is Germany’s historic automobile club, promoting road safety, motorsport, driver support, and the preservation of classic vehicles.

AXA PPP Internationaal

AXA Global Healthcare provides international health insurance, giving members worldwide access to quality medical care and ongoing healthcare support.

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