Read this guide all about Moving to Turkey from the UK or any worldwide location.
Advance Moves can save you time and money when it comes to moving to Turkey. We can give you an instant online quick quote for a move to any worldwide location, which is then backed up by up to 5 free quotes from moving companies specially selected from our list of agents and partners to cover your area and requirements. You then have the choice of selecting the mover and quotation that is best for you, saving both time and money in obtaining a competitive removals quotation.
Thinking of moving to Turkey from the UK? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of British citizens relocate to Turkey for retirement, work, or simply a better lifestyle. With its warm Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, rich culture, and affordable cost of living, Turkey is a popular destination for UK movers.
At Advance Moves, we make the process simple. Our instant online Quick Quote system allows you to enter your moving details once and receive a guideline price and volume for your move to Turkey. We then match you with the top 5 international removal companies best suited to your move, who will contact you directly with tailored quotes.
π Start your relocation today with an instant free moving quote to Turkey.
Moving to Turkey offers an attractive mix of lifestyle benefits, affordability, and opportunity. Here’s why so many UK expats are choosing Turkey:
Affordable Lifestyle – On average, living costs are 50–70% lower than in the UK. Everyday expenses like groceries, dining out, and transport are much more affordable.
Mediterranean Climate – With long, hot summers and mild winters, Turkey offers over 300 days of sunshine in many regions. Perfect for outdoor living.
Culture & History – Turkey offers a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western traditions, ancient ruins, and vibrant modern cities.
Expat Communities – Towns like Fethiye, Bodrum, Antalya, and Marmaris are home to thriving expat communities, making integration easier.
Property Investment – Foreign nationals can purchase property in Turkey, with options ranging from affordable coastal apartments to luxury villas.
Retirement Destination – Turkey is increasingly popular with British retirees thanks to its affordability, healthcare options, and relaxed lifestyle.
International removals involve much more than moving boxes. The logistics of moving to Turkey can include customs paperwork, shipping choices, and planning around your visa or residence permit. With Advance Moves, you are instantly connected to professional movers experienced in Turkish relocations.
Services include:
Full and part-load removals – Ideal whether you’re moving a few boxes or a full household.
Professional packing & wrapping – Protecting fragile and valuable items for long journeys.
Customs documentation & clearance – Ensuring smooth entry into Turkey.
Transport options – Road freight, sea freight, and air freight depending on urgency and budget.
Storage solutions – Short- and long-term storage in both the UK and Turkey.
π Try our Quick Quote system today and instantly compare trusted removal companies for Turkey.
After Brexit, UK nationals must apply for a visa or residence permit to live in Turkey. Fortunately, Turkey has several flexible options:
Tourist Visa – Allows up to 90 days in Turkey within a 180-day period. Perfect for short visits but not suitable for relocation.
Short-Term Residence Permit – Valid for 1–2 years, this is the most common choice for property owners, retirees, and long-stay visitors.
Work Permit – Required if you plan to be employed by a Turkish business. Employers usually sponsor this.
Long-Term Residence Permit – Available after 8 years of continuous residence, offering more stability.
Turkish Citizenship by Investment – By purchasing property worth at least $400,000, you can qualify for fast-track citizenship and a Turkish passport.
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One of the main attractions for British expats is the lower cost of living in Turkey compared to the UK. Here’s what you can expect:
Housing & Rent – Renting an apartment in coastal towns like Fethiye or Bodrum is often 60–70% cheaper than in London. Property purchase prices are also much lower.
Food & Dining – Fresh fruit, vegetables, and locally produced foods are excellent value. Eating out at traditional Turkish restaurants can cost a fraction of what it does in the UK.
Utilities – Gas, electricity, and internet are generally much cheaper.
Transport – Public transport and fuel costs are significantly lower, making commuting affordable.
Healthcare – Both public and private healthcare options are available, with private healthcare being very affordable compared to the UK.
Overall, retirees and families often find they can enjoy a better standard of living in Turkey at a much lower cost.
Turkey offers a wide variety of destinations for expats depending on lifestyle and budget:
Istanbul – A bustling global city with culture, history, and modern amenities. Great for professionals and families who want city living.
Antalya – A coastal hub known for stunning beaches, year-round sun, and a large international expat community.
Bodrum – A stylish resort town popular for its marinas, nightlife, and luxury homes.
Fethiye – One of the top choices for UK retirees thanks to its affordable property prices and relaxed lifestyle.
Izmir – A cosmopolitan city with a European feel, offering a balance of modern living and traditional Turkish culture.
Marmaris – A lively resort area popular with holidaymakers and those seeking a vibrant expat community.
When relocating to Turkey, it’s important to understand customs and shipping rules:
Household Goods – Personal belongings can usually be imported duty-free if you have a valid residence permit.
Restricted Items – Firearms, certain medicines, and cultural artifacts may require special permits or are prohibited.
Documentation Needed – Passport, residence permit, detailed inventory list, and shipping documents are typically required.
Vehicles – Importing cars into Turkey can be complex, with strict age limits and high taxes. Many expats choose to purchase locally instead.
Customs Clearance – Professional removal companies arranged via Advance Moves will guide you through this process, ensuring your shipment clears without issues.
π Useful link: Turkish Customs Information Portal
Moving abroad can feel overwhelming, but Advance Moves makes it stress-free:
Enter your move details online.
Receive an instant guideline price for your move.
Get matched with the top 5 international movers to Turkey.
Compare services, costs, and choose with confidence.
With Advance Moves, you save time, money, and hassle while ensuring your move is handled by experienced professionals.
A move to Turkey from the UK is a big step, but it can also be the adventure of a lifetime. From affordable living to vibrant expat communities, Turkey offers an incredible lifestyle for British nationals. With Advance Moves, your relocation is made simple — from instant online quotes to customs support and trusted movers.
π Get your instant free moving quote today with Advance Moves and make your move to Turkey smooth, affordable, and stress-free.
If you’re moving to Turkey from the UK, one of the most important steps is securing the correct visa or residence permit. Since Brexit, British nationals are no longer covered by EU freedom of movement and must apply for residency to stay in Turkey long-term. Fortunately, Turkey offers several options depending on whether you want to work, retire, or simply enjoy extended stays.
This is the most common residency option for expats moving to Turkey.
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Best for: Retirees, property owners, and those who want to stay longer than a tourist visa.
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Length: Issued for 1–2 years at a time, renewable.
Requirements include:
Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining).
Turkish address (rental contract or property deed).
Proof of financial means (bank statements, pension, or income).
Proof of health insurance valid in Turkey.
Completed application form and biometric photos.
π Apply online via the official portal: e-Residence in Turkey.
If you plan to work in Turkey, you’ll need a valid work permit.
β Best for: Professionals, skilled workers, and employees hired by Turkish companies.
Process:
Your employer applies to the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Services on your behalf.
You cannot start working until the permit is granted.
Work permits are typically valid for 1 year and renewable.
π More info: Turkish Ministry of Labour.
This is the Turkish equivalent of permanent residency.
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Best for: Expats who want to settle in Turkey permanently.
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Eligibility: After 8 years of continuous legal residence in Turkey.
Benefits:
Similar rights to Turkish citizens (except voting and military service).
No need to renew short-term permits.
Easier travel in and out of Turkey.
Turkey is an increasingly popular destination for British retirees thanks to its low cost of living, good healthcare, and warm climate.
Steps for retirees:
Apply for a short-term residence permit (renewable every 1–2 years).
Show proof of pension income or savings to cover your stay.
Maintain valid health insurance (either private or through Turkey’s SGK system if you later qualify).
Unlike some countries, Turkey does not have a specific “retirement visa” — but retirees can easily live long-term on renewable residence permits.
For those looking for a fast-track solution, Turkey offers one of the most attractive citizenship-by-investment programs.
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Option 1: Buy property worth at least $400,000.
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Option 2: Deposit $500,000 in a Turkish bank.
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Option 3: Create 50 jobs for Turkish citizens.
This allows you to gain Turkish citizenship and a passport in as little as 3–6 months.
π More info: Turkish Citizenship Program.
If you’re moving for education, Turkey issues residence permits for international students enrolled at Turkish universities.
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Best for: Students studying in Turkey full-time.
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Length: Valid for the duration of your studies.
Apply early – Don’t wait until your tourist visa is about to expire.
Gather documents carefully – Errors can delay your application.
Use a translator if needed – Many official offices require documents in Turkish.
Work with professionals – A relocation company or lawyer can smooth the process.
Whether you plan to work, retire, or invest, Turkey offers multiple paths to legal residency. Most British expats begin with a short-term residence permit and then move toward long-term residency or even citizenship.
With its sunny climate, affordable living, and welcoming expat communities, gaining residency in Turkey opens the door to a fantastic new lifestyle.
π Next step: Once you have residency sorted, use Advance Moves to arrange your removal to Turkey with instant online quotes.
When planning your move to Turkey from the UK, one of the most important decisions is where to live. Turkey is vast and diverse — from bustling megacities to charming fishing villages, from luxury coastal resorts to traditional Anatolian towns. Each destination offers a unique lifestyle, cost of living, and expat experience.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the most popular places to relocate to in Turkey, and what life is like for expats in each.
If you’re relocating to Istanbul, you’ll be living in a city that bridges two continents. With more than 15 million people, Istanbul is Turkey’s beating heart.
Lifestyle: Expect fast-paced city living with a mix of old and new. By day, enjoy world-class museums, bazaars, and historical landmarks. By night, experience Istanbul’s bustling café and nightlife culture.
Cost of Living: Istanbul is more expensive than other Turkish cities, but still 40–50% cheaper than London. Rent varies widely — from affordable apartments in KadΔ±köy to luxury penthouses in BeΕiktaΕ or Levent.
Expat Community: Many expats are drawn to Istanbul for work in finance, tech, teaching, or international business. There are active expat social groups and international schools for families.
Best For: Professionals, young families, and those who want a cosmopolitan lifestyle with endless opportunities.
π Thinking about moving to Istanbul? Advance Moves makes relocation easier with instant moving quotes.
Antalya is one of Turkey’s most popular destinations for expats — and with good reason.
Lifestyle: Known as the gateway to the Turkish Riviera, Antalya offers golden beaches, ancient ruins, modern shopping centres, and a lively harbour. Outdoor living is central to life here, with year-round sunshine and mild winters.
Cost of Living: Housing is affordable, with modern apartments and villas available at far lower prices than the UK. Groceries, dining out, and services are inexpensive, making Antalya attractive for retirees.
Expat Community: Antalya has one of the largest expat populations in Turkey, particularly from the UK, Germany, and Russia. There are English-speaking doctors, international schools, and plenty of community groups.
Best For: Retirees, families, and sun-seekers who want beach life with modern comforts.
π If you’re planning on relocating to Antalya, Advance Moves can help with trusted international movers.
For those dreaming of a stylish Mediterranean lifestyle, moving to Bodrum is the answer.
Lifestyle: Bodrum is famous for its marina, sailing culture, and vibrant nightlife. It blends upscale living with bohemian charm. Expect yacht clubs, fine dining, boutique hotels, and beach clubs.
Cost of Living: Bodrum is more expensive than most Turkish towns, especially for luxury homes. However, it offers world-class amenities and is still cheaper than Mediterranean hotspots like the South of France.
Expat Community: Many wealthier expats from the UK, Europe, and the Middle East call Bodrum home. English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism and property sectors.
Best For: Expats seeking luxury, glamour, and an active social scene.
Relocating to Fethiye is a favourite choice for British expats — especially retirees.
Lifestyle: Fethiye offers a laid-back lifestyle surrounded by turquoise waters, green mountains, and the famous Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz. Local markets, outdoor cafés, and a slower pace of life appeal to many retirees.
Cost of Living: Property in Fethiye is affordable, with good value apartments and villas. Daily living costs are significantly cheaper than the UK, making it a top destination for pensioners.
Expat Community: Fethiye has one of the largest British expat populations in Turkey. English is widely spoken, and there are many expat clubs and events.
Best For: Retirees, families, and those seeking a relaxed, affordable lifestyle.
π Considering moving to Fethiye? Advance Moves can match you with the best movers for your relocation.
Moving to Izmir means enjoying a cosmopolitan, European-feel city by the sea.
Lifestyle: Izmir is Turkey’s third-largest city and has a relaxed atmosphere compared to Istanbul. It’s famous for its seafront promenade, café culture, and modern shopping. It’s also close to ancient sites like Ephesus.
Cost of Living: Much cheaper than Istanbul, with affordable housing and everyday expenses. Many expats buy property in the nearby resorts of ÇeΕme or AlaçatΔ±.
Expat Community: Izmir attracts students, digital nomads, and young professionals. While smaller than Istanbul’s, the expat scene is growing fast.
Best For: Those wanting city life without the chaos, and families looking for international schools.
If you’re drawn to lively seaside towns, moving to Marmaris is an option.
Lifestyle: Marmaris is a tourist hub with beautiful beaches, a lively marina, and a bustling nightlife. It’s especially popular in summer.
Cost of Living: Affordable, though prices rise during peak tourist months. Renting long-term is still cheaper than the UK.
Expat Community: Popular with British expats, many of whom run local businesses or retire here. There are also strong seasonal expat communities.
Best For: Those who want a lively holiday-town vibe with a strong expat presence.
Relocating to Alanya is becoming increasingly popular for expats seeking affordability.
Lifestyle: Alanya offers long sandy beaches, a historic old town, and a quieter lifestyle than Antalya. It has all the amenities you need but retains a relaxed atmosphere.
Cost of Living: Very affordable, especially for property. Many expats buy apartments with sea views at a fraction of UK prices.
Expat Community: Growing communities of British, Scandinavian, and Russian expats. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Best For: Families and retirees looking for affordable coastal living.
For retirees: Fethiye, Antalya, Alanya.
For professionals and families: Istanbul, Izmir.
For luxury living: Bodrum.
For vibrant expat communities: Marmaris, Fethiye, Antalya.
No matter where you choose, relocating to Turkey from the UK opens the door to a more affordable, sunny, and fulfilling lifestyle.
π Take the stress out of relocation with Advance Moves — get an instant Quick Quote and compare the best movers for your journey to Turkey.
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