Settling-In Tips
From Crown Istanbul
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other
variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might
result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown
representative.
INTRODUCTION
What is special or unique about your city?
Turkey is known as the "European gateway to Asia". Three percent of the country lies in Europe
(Thrace) and 97percent lies in Asia (Anatolian plateau) . Mount Ararat lies in the east of Turkey and is
believed by many to be the resting place of Noah's Ark.
What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?
Istanbul is a bustling and busy city and one of the most densely populated in Europe. As a result, the
traffic appears chaotic and disorganized.
Are these impressions likely to change?
It can take some time for people to settle in, but the hustle and bustle is generally easier to live with
once you experience the friendliness and warmth of the Turks and see another side to the city.
What is the local language?
The local language is Turkish.
How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?
English and German are fairly common business languages, but some basic words and phrases are
essential in day to day life.
What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?
Most Turks remove their shoes as they enter a home as a sign of cleanliness. Turks like to be the
ones to pay and will almost never take money from someone for sharing a meal or drink, people
generally take turns paying.
How might the local weather affect my daily life?
The temperature can drop below freezing in the winter and the last two years has brought heavy snow
falls between December and March. Mid 30 degrees Celsius (Mid 80 degrees Fahrenheit) is the usual
temperature during the summer. The seasons therefore are very distinct, so proper clothing must be
considered.
Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?
Istanbul is an interesting and historical city in which to live offering a variety ways to entertain families
and single people alike.
Useful Links
List 2000
www.list2000.com.tr
Istanbul Information
www.istanbul.com.tr
Istanbul City Guide
www.istanbulcityguide.com
VISAS AND PERMITS
As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?
You are considered a temporary resident.
What kinds of visas are available?
For tourists: Most people are allowed to remain in Turkey for one to three months, dependant upon
nationality, and the visa is purchased upon arrival at the airport before passing through immigration.
Some nationalities require visas before departing from their home country. Please refer to your local
visa office before making travel arrangements or contact Crown Istanbul once you know when you will
be arriving.
If you plan to live and work in Turkey you will need a work permit, a work visa and a residence permit.
What is required to obtain these visas?
Dealing with immigration authorities is a fairly time-consuming and stressful task. Your application
must be made when you are in Turkey and once the work permit is issued, after five to seven days, an
application is made for your work visa. This can take from one to three months as a time limit is not
set by the authorities and in most cases requires you and your family to visit your country of origin in
order to have the visa stamped in your passport. Your residence permit can then be applied for and is
generally available within five days.
A variety of paperwork is required to make this happen, including the balance sheet of your employer
and company registration documents. However, the crucial points are that your passport is valid for at
least one year from when the visa is issued and that you are able to present your original education
certificates.
You will require professional assistance with this process and most employers sub-contract this
service to a specialist. Crown Istanbul can provide this service to all corporate and private accounts.
Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?
Yes, provided they go through the process listed above.
What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?
A credit card sized booklet called Residence Permit For Foreigners. You will receive this as part of
the process mentioned above.
Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?
No.
What items should I avoid bringing into the country?
You do have standard duty free allowances for alcohol and tobacco when flying into Turkey, but any
shipment of household goods and personal effects must be free of food, alcohol, plants, telephone
and fax equipment, firearms and drugs.
Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?
If you bring a shipment of household goods and personal effects it will be registered with the customs
authorites and each year a Customs Prolongation must be applied for in order for your goods to
remain. Crown Istanbul can take care of this for you as a matter of routine.
Useful Links
Turkish Embassy in Washington, DC (USA)
www.turkishembassy.org
MONEY
What is the local currency?
Turkish lira (TL).
What denominations does it come in?
Notes: 250 thousand, 500 thousand, 1 million, 5 million, 10 million and 20 million
Coins: 25 thousand, 50 thousand and 100 thousand
What is the best way to exchange currency?
Using a bank is the most common method, but there are many money changers in and around the
tourist spots and high streets.
What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?
Credit cards, local bank cards and cash.
Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.
Most major credit cards are accepted, but it is wise to carry cash when using local shops and bars.
By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?
Some bills can be paid through local banks (if you have an account) and this is by far and away the
simplest method. However, the payment of bills can be quite difficult for some foreigners as they are
all printed in Turkish and often don't arrive on time or at all on some occasions! Local assistance on
managing home accounts and bill payments is recommended.
What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should
I open it?
This is a fairly simple process and recommended for managing home accounts. Many of the larger
Turkish banks will allow you to open an account with a letter from your employer and a view of your
passport.
Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?
This is limited. Some banks employ staff with foreign language skills, but these tend to be limited to
English or German. Internet banking is only available in Turkish at this time, but most of the major
banks are planning to offer other languages in the future. Most ATM services are multi language.
Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?
No.
What are typical banking hours?
9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Some banks have a limited number of branches open on
Saturday morning.
Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?
Yes, they are.
Is there any other money information that might help me?
Get used to counting in millions! The exchange rate fluctuates a great deal and mental conversion of
currencies can be a nightmare.
Useful Links
Citibank
www.citibank.com.tr
HSBC
www.hsbc.com.tr
ACCOMMODATION
What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
Top factors are the location of work and schools. As the traffic can be heavy throughout the day most
people tend to consider these factors first when looking for a place to live.
What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?
Most expats tend to live in Etiler, Ulus and Levent if they prefer apartments, and Kemer Country,
Zekeriyakoy and Tarabya if they prefer villas or garden properties. All of these areas are well serviced
with international schools, have a variety of rental prices and some offer spectacular views of the
Bosphorous.
Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Most expats rent their homes.
Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into
leased housing? If so, how much is common?
One month's rent is the minimum deposit required, but two months rent is common.
Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
All utilities are extra. There are often additional charges for area management services and refuse
(garbage) collection.
Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of
neighborhood?
Many villas and apartments are situated within compounds offering 24-hour gated security. Istanbul is
not a violent city, but has suffered from a poor economy for some time producing a significant level of
poverty. It is wise to consider this when selecting your home.
I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?
Two pin round plugs are the standard electrical fittings and the standard voltage is 220v 50hz,
although short power outages are common. Uninterruptible power supplies are useful for more
delicate electrical appliances such as computers.
Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
Because Turkey is suffering from a poor economy right now there are many properties in a variety of
areas available for rent, both furnished and unfurnished. Finding the right property can take some time
and it is worth considering temporary accommodation upon your arrival. Fully furnished, serviced
accommodation is available in Istanbul and ranges from smaller studios, to four or five bedroom
apartments.
Useful Links
Istanbul City Guide
www.istanbulcityguide.com
EDUCATION
What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?
Most expats take advantage of the variety of private international schools available in Istanbul.
What are some examples of these schools?
o Istanbul Italian School - Teaches an Italian curriculum.
o British International School, Istanbul International Community School - both teach an international
curriculum.
o Istanbul MEF School, Bosphorous International Primary School - Teaches a British curriculum.
Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?
Not really, there are a number of schools "chasing for business" so it is rare not to be able to pick and
choose the school that best suits your children's needs.
Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?
Not widely. MEF and the Italian schools do not offer pre-school services, but the British School does
for children ages two and older.
How are most kids transported to and from school?
School buses are available in certain areas, but most parents choose to drive their kids to school.
When does the typical school year start and end?
The school year begins on September 1st and concludes on July 9th.
Is there anything else I should know about local schools?
Please contact Crown Relocations Istanbul for additional information or school search assistance.
Useful Links
Istanbul International Community School
www.iics.k12.tr/
British International School in Istanbul
www.bis.k12.tr/
HEALTH
Are there any vaccinations I should get or other health precautions to take as I prepare for my move to
your city?
Although doctors may suggest tetanus, booster and malaria tablets for travel to the Adana area, no
vaccinations are required, but please remember to bring you and your family's medical records with
you.
Before I get sick, what should I know about seeking medical care in your city as an expat?
Government institutions generally provide medical and dental services in Istanbul. However,
numerous private hospitals and clinics are now providing good emergency and outpatient services and
most are open 24-hours a day.
What is the word for "doctor" in the local language?
Doktor.
What is the best way to locate a suitable health care provider?
This will depend on where you live, but friends and co-workers are generally the best source for
recommendations.
Do expats in the area tend to leave the city/area/country to seek medical care? If so, why and where do
they go?
No.
What is the number to call to summon help in an emergency? List medical/fire/police.
o Medical - 112
o Fire - 110
o Police - 155
However, if you don't speak Turkish there is little point in calling the emergency services as they are
rarely manned by anyone other than "Turkish only" speakers. It is best to have a Turkish speaking
friend or colleague that you can contact in the event of an emergency.
What do I do if there's an emergency in the middle of the night—or at another time when my normal
doctor/clinic is unavailable?
As mentioned above there are private hospitals and clinics offering 24-hour services. It is wise to be
aware of the facility nearest your home and if the patient is mobile, conscious and stable in breathing,
you may opt to take the patient there. Alternatively, ask a Turkish speaking friend or colleague to call
emergency services.
How will I recognize a pharmacy? What is it called in the local language?
There is always one pharmacy (Nobetci Eczane) in each district open 24-hours for emergencies. The
name and address of the on duty pharmacy is displayed in all other pharmacies.
Is the water safe to drink?
Tap water is heavily chlorinated, therefore relatively safe to drink, but rather unpleasant in taste.
Bottled water is a more agreeable and an inexpensive alternative.
Useful Links
Istanbul City Guide
www.istanbulcityguide.com
TRANSPORT
Will I need to drive my own vehicle to conduct my everyday life (work/school/shopping) at my
destination?
You can travel by tramway, taxi, dolmus, minibus, ferry boat, motor boat, sea bus, underground
railway (Tunnel) and government bus in the city. Your own car is useful, but not essential.
How can I legally drive a vehicle in this city?
You will be able to drive with an International Drivers License, which is best applied for in your country
of origin.
What side of the road do people drive on?
Driving is on the right, but when you first experience the traffic you may not be so sure!
Describe typical public transportation an expat might use to get around the city.
The transport listed in question one tends not to run to a strict timetable but is frequent, every 15
minutes in most cases. Taxis run on meters and start at TL 1,050,000 adding TL 790,000 per
kilometer. The sea bus charges TL 3,500,000 per journey and most other services charge a fixed rate
of around TL 1,000,000.
Could an expat also use public transportation to get out of the city—to surrounding towns, recreation
areas or suburbs? If so, list options.
Yes. There are regular overnight "sleeper" and daytime bus links to all major Turkish cities as well as
ferry/boat services to coastal areas.
In regards to transportation, are there any safety issues I should be aware of?
None really, but as with most major cities you should be aware of pickpocketers.
Where do I buy tickets/tokens/etc. for the major public transportation?
To use the transport services listed above you will be required to pay cash as you board or when the
vehicle is on the move. The most common method for the underground, tramway, government bus
and some ferries is the Akbil. This is a small plastic "tear drop" with a magnetic spot that connects
with the appropriate box on the vehicle, a little like a "smart card". These can be purchased in
advance and offer a 20 percent discount on normal fares.
Useful Links
Istanbul City Guide
www.istanbulcityguide.com
SHOPPING
What are the items that I should bring with me because they’re not available (or are too expensive)
where I am going?
Colleagues and friends are generally the best source for information, but it is fair to say that domestic
electrical appliances are particularly expensive in Istanbul.
Will anyone have particular trouble finding clothes that fit?
Standard European sizes are available.
What grocery stores do expats in your city shop at?
Carrefour, Migros and Champion.
Where can other household items (such as cleaning materials and home furnishings) be found?
There are many shopping malls such as Akmerkez, Atrium, Carsi, Profilo and Galleria situated in
Istanbul and specialist industrial style shopping districts for home furnishings. There are also the
famous shopping bazaars, offering a variety of products which must be experienced.
What are factors that might affect my shopping habits in this country/city?
Foreign imports are rare and expensive. Since Turkey is a Muslim country, pork is either difficult to
find or prohibitively expensive. Shop staff also rarely speak a foreign language.
Useful Links
Turkey.com
www.turkey.com
NETWORKING
How close-knit is the expat community in this area? How do I get involved with it?
There are a number of associations and clubs to join, but the expat community is not close-knit in
Istanbul primarily due to the small numbers.
Beside expat groups, what is the best way to make social connections outside of work?
Although classed as "expat groups" the majority of members of most of the associations in Istanbul
are Turkish and therefore represent the best way of building a social network. The Mother and Child
Education Foundation (MOCEF) implements free literacy courses for women in Istanbul and the Lions
Group is a Turkish organization aimed at raising money for charity. There is also an Istanbul Rotary
Club.
Where can I meet other singles in this city?
There are no facilities specifically tailored for single people, but the nightlife in Istanbul is extensive.
Clubs and associations welcome singles and families alike and you will not find yourself short of
opportunities to meet people.
Are there any unique networking opportunities for accompanying partners?
Yes, but they are mostly geared towards women. They include the International Women of Istanbul,
American Women of Istanbul, Corona Ladies Group, The Network of Foreign Spouses, Swiss Club,
Circolo Roma Club and Finnish Women Club.
Useful Links
International Women of Istanbul
www.iwi-tr.org/
YOUNG PEOPLE
How well-equipped is this city for those raising infants/toddlers? Specifically, are there public places to
change diapers, maintained playgrounds, etc?
Major shopping malls tend to be toddler friendly and housing compounds offer safe and secure
playgrounds and activity centers for kids. There are a number of residential areas outside of the main
city (Zeriyakoy and Kemer Country) that offer clubhouses for residents, but outside of these areas no
specific effort is made to make life easier for parents with infants.
Where can I get a list of reliable childcare providers/nannies?
There are agencies specializing in the provision of these services, but the most effective method is
usually to employ staff that have been recommended by friends and colleagues.
Discuss any safety issues for children in this city.
There aren't any issues that are out of the ordinary. As always, you can't go wrong with exercising
caution around traffic and just being aware of what your children are up to.
What are the most popular kid-friendly attractions in the area?
The clubhouses tend to be the most popular place where kids can meet their friends.
What are the most popular activities for kids after school or on weekends?
The schools sometimes arrange activities, but neighborhood clubhouses are again the place were
most children spend their free time.
What's it like to be a teenager in this city? Are there any particular challenges I should be aware of as a
parent?
The most important thing for a teenager is to develop a social group, much as any other city. There
are few activities tailored for teenagers in Istanbul.
Are there any organizations/social groups in the area that cater exclusively to young people ages 12-17?
Currently there aren't any that exist.
I want my child to get the most out of our stay in this country. Are there any specific opportunities to
teach young people about the local culture?
The history of Turkey, which is extensive, is well exploited in Istanbul by museums and both village
and city festivals staged throughout the year. The list of festivals is extensive (including Camel
Wrestling for those inclined). Crown Istanbul can provide you with a current program for your area.
Useful Links
Please contact Crown Istanbul for more information about bringing young people to Turkey.