If you’re planning to live or work in Turkey in 2026, understanding the local tax system is one of the smartest moves you can make. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, freelancing remotely, or investing in property, knowing how and when to pay your taxes will save you stress.

This guide explains, in simple terms, how taxes in Turkey work for residents and expats: when you need to file, how much you’ll pay, which deductions you can claim, and how to file online through the Turkish tax system.

Overview of the Turkish Tax System

Turkey’s tax system is straightforward once you understand its structure. It includes three main layers:

1. Income Tax:  paid by individuals on earnings such as salaries, rent, or self-employment income.

2. Corporate Tax:  paid by businesses on profits.

3. Value Added Tax (VAT): included in the price of most goods and services.

The tax year follows the calendar year, from January 1 to December 31.
The filing deadline for individuals is March 31, 2027, for income earned in 2026. If you are a salaried employee, your employer will usually deduct and pay your taxes automatically. However, you must file a return if you:

• Have more than one source of income,

• Earn rental or freelance income, or

• Receive income from abroad.

Who Has to Pay Taxes in Turkey

Your tax residency status determines what income you have to report.

Tax residency rules

You are considered a tax resident in Turkey if you:

• Spend more than 183 days in the country during a calendar year, or

• Have your permanent home or main economic interests in Turkey.

If you are a tax resident, you must pay tax on your worldwide income, meaning income from both Turkish and foreign sources.
If you are a non-resident, you pay tax only on income earned within Turkey (for example, your local salary or rent from property in Turkey).

Other Common Taxes in Turkey

In addition to income tax, expats in Turkey may also come across:

• Social Security Contributions (SGK):
  Required for employees and employers.

  • Employee: ~14% of gross salary

  • Employer: ~20.5% of gross salary

    
    

• Value Added Tax (KDV):

  • 20% standard rate

  • 10% for essentials like food and hotels

  • 1% for certain basic goods and real estate
    
    

• Property Tax:
  Paid annually by homeowners, based on location and property type.
  
  

• Capital Gains Tax:
  15%–35% on profits from selling property or shares (with some exemptions if you hold the asset long enough).
  
  

• Stamp Duty:
  A small percentage applied to official documents and contracts.

Tip: Even if you rent your home, property owners may pass on certain local taxes or fees, so ask about these when signing your rental agreement.

Deductions and Allowances

Deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income. In Turkey, both residents and expats can claim a variety of deductions, depending on their situation:

• Social security and private pension contributions (BES).

• Life and health insurance premiums.

• Charitable donations to approved organizations.

• Education and medical expenses (for dependents or yourself).

• Business-related costs if you’re self-employed: such as rent, utilities, or equipment.

Keep all receipts, the Turkish tax authority often requires proof for deductions.

Avoiding Double Taxation

Turkey has tax treaties with over 85 countries, including the UK, the US, Germany, the Netherlands, and Canada. These treaties help you avoid paying tax twice on the same income. If you’ve already paid tax abroad, you can usually claim a foreign tax credit in Turkey. Always confirm whether your home country has a double taxation agreement with Turkey and check which country has the right to tax specific types of income (like salary or dividends). You can find the full list of agreements on the Turkish Revenue Administration (GIB) website.

How to File Taxes in Turkey

Filing your taxes is easier than it used to be, especially now that most people can file online.

Step 1: Prepare your documents

You’ll need:

• Your Tax Identification Number (Vergi Kimlik Numarası)

• Income statements from employers

• Bank or rental income records

• Receipts for any deductions (insurance, donations, etc.)

Step 2: File your return

You can file:

• Online via the Interactive Tax Office (İnteraktif Vergi Dairesi) at ivd.gib.gov.tr, or

• In person at your local Tax Office (Vergi Dairesi).

The online system is user-friendly and available in English for basic forms.

Step 3: Pay your taxes

• Filing deadline: March 31, 2027

• Payments are usually made in two installments (March and July).

• You can pay online, at banks, or at the tax office.

Step 4: Get expert help if needed

If you have income from multiple countries or own a business, it’s a good idea to work with a Certified Public Accountant (Yeminli Mali Müşavir). They can make sure you take advantage of deductions and file correctly under any applicable treaty.

Quick Checklist for Expats in Turkey 2026

• Determine your residency status (resident or non-resident).

• Register for a Turkish Tax ID (if you don’t have one).

• Gather income records and deduction receipts.

• File online via https://dijital.gib.gov.tr/

• Submit your return by March 31, 2027.

• Pay installments in March and July.

• Keep all documents for five years.

• Check double taxation rules for your country.

Final Tips for Filing Taxes in Turkey 2026

• File early: Online systems can get busy close to the deadline.

• Track your income: Keep detailed records if you’re freelancing or self-employed

• Confirm your status: If you move in or out mid-year, your residency could change.

• Ask questions: Turkish tax offices are generally helpful,  many large cities have English-speaking staff.

• Use professional help: For most expats, working with a tax advisor the first year makes the process faster and smoother.

Turkey’s tax system may look detailed at first, but once you understand the basics, it’s manageable. With digital tools, helpful accountants, and tax treaties in place, paying taxes as an expat in Turkey is straightforward, and staying compliant helps you enjoy life here with peace of mind.

Conclusion: Stay Compliant, Stay Confident

Understanding and managing your taxes in Turkey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Once you know your residency status, income brackets, and filing obligations, everything becomes a structured, step-by-step process. By preparing early, keeping accurate records, and using the online tools provided by the Turkish Revenue Administration (GIB), you can ensure full compliance and avoid unnecessary penalties.

For most expats, getting professional guidance during the first year is invaluable, it helps you adapt smoothly to local rules while taking advantage of every legal deduction and tax treaty available. Remember, tax compliance isn’t just about following the law; it’s about protecting your peace of mind and financial stability as you build a life in Turkey.