All useful articles
2025: Departure Fee from Turkey Increased
By decision of the President of Turkey, published in the Official Gazette on September 9, 2025, the mandatory departure fee has been increased.
What you need to know about emergency medical services in Türkiye
Dear subscribers, please note the following important points regarding the 112 emergency service
Passport renewal while holding a valid residence permit in Türkiye
If you have renewed your passport in Türkiye, there are several important points to keep in mind
Registration at your place of residence is not just a formality
Registration at your place of residence is not just a formality, but one of the key conditions for maintaining your residence permit.
Foreigners Support Center
One of the most common questions addressed to the Foreigners Support Center recently is: “Which hospital can I go to at affordable prices?”
Emergency Service in Turkey
Each of us may face a situation when we, our loved ones, or acquaintances need urgent help.
In such a case, it is enough to call 112, and the necessary service will be sent to you.
Types of Insurance in Türkiye
Türkiye offers a wide range of insurance products, from mandatory (required by law) to voluntary options that individuals may choose for additional protection. Below is an overview of the main categories.
What is a Müracaat Belgesi and Can You Travel Abroad with It After Applying for Residence Permit (Ikamet) in Turkey?
If you have applied for a residence permit (ikamet) in Turkey, you will receive a Müracaat Belgesi after submitting your application. This is an official document confirming that your application has been accepted and is under review. The document indicates the submission date and temporarily replaces your residence permit until you receive your card.
Changing Surname After Marriage in Turkey
■ When a marriage is registered in Turkey, the woman’s surname is automatically changed to her husband’s surname.
■ This rule applies to both Turkish citizens and foreign women marrying in Turkey.
Restricted Areas for Foreigners in Türkiye in 2025: What Does It Mean?
In Türkiye, there is a concept of “restricted areas” (kapalı mahalle/bölge) — these are neighborhoods or districts where foreign nationals are prohibited or limited from obtaining a residence permit, especially for touristic or rental-based purposes.
What is a Tahliye Taahhütnamesi?
A Tahliye Taahhütnamesi is a written document that the tenant voluntarily signs, confirming that they will vacate the rented property on a specified date — without the need for court proceedings.
RESIDENCE PERMIT FEES
According to Law No. 210 on Valuable Papers (Değerli Kâğıtlar Kanunu), the residence permit card (ikamet kimlik kartı) in Türkiye is classified as a valuable document.
➤ Its cost is determined annually by the Ministry of Finance and is mandatory for all foreign nationals. No exemptions are provided.
Health Insurance in Turkey for Employees and Their Parents/Children
In Turkey, employers automatically provide state health insurance (SGK) for their employees. You can also add your parents and children who have a residence permit (VKN) to your insurance.
Address Registration Requirement for Residence Permit Holders
If you have a valid residence permit (ikamet izni) in Turkey, you are required to register your residential address within 20 calendar days of obtaining the permit or changing your place of residence.
What to Do When You Change Your Address
If you change your place of residence, you must notify the Migration Authority (Göç İdaresi) and register your new address.
Conversion of Foreign Driver’s License to a Turkish License
To convert a foreign driver’s license to a Turkish driver’s license, it is necessary to prepare the required documents, pay the official fee, and schedule an appointment with the relevant authority.
FLIGHT DELAY IN TURKEY — KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
If your flight is within Turkey or departing from Turkey to an international destination, the regulations of the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) apply.
FLIGHT DELAY: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
1. You were notified less than 5 hours before departure
2. You were notified in advance, but you haven’t gone to the airport yet
How to Request a Refund for Overpaid Residence Permit Fees in Turkey
If you applied for a one-year residence permit in Turkey and paid the corresponding fee, but were granted a permit for only six months, you are entitled to a partial refund for the unused period.
In Turkey, Bridges, Highways and Public Transport Will Be Free During Eid al-Adha
During Eid al-Adha, the Turkish government traditionally offers free access to major transport infrastructure to ease travel and reduce congestion across the country.
KETEM (Cancer Early Diagnosis, Screening and Education Center)
KETEM (Cancer Early Diagnosis, Screening and Education Center) are public health centers in Turkey dedicated to the early detection and prevention of cancer.
Kurban Bayram 2025: Public Holidays and Working Hours of Institutions
In 2025, Kurban Bayram will be celebrated in Türkiye from June 6 to June 9.
Free Summer Courses for Children and Youth in Antalya
Registration opens soon!
The Antalya Metropolitan Municipality invites children and young people to join free summer courses organized by the ATABEM (Antalya Metropolitan Municipality Education and Art Center).
Fines for Unauthorized Employment in Turkey — 2025
In 2025, Turkey imposes strict fines for foreigners working without a valid work permit. Employers face a fine of 81,683 TL per unauthorized worker. Foreign employees without a permit are fined 32,654 TL, and those self-employed without permission are fined 65,352 TL. A 5,423 TL fine applies for failing to report required information on time, even with a valid permit. Violations may also lead to deportation and entry bans. Unauthorized work is considered a serious legal offense.
Türkiye Welcomes Over 12 Million Visitors in Early 2025: A Strong Start to the Tourism Season
Turkey has made an impressive entry into the 2025 tourism season, hosting a total of 12,744,084 visitors in the first four months of the year, according to data released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Among them, 10.59 million were foreign tourists, while 2.15 million were Turkish citizens residing abroad.
Actual Case: A Market Souvenir That Triggered a Travel Ban from Turkey
Russian tourist Alexander T. was stopped at a Turkish airport because customs found a powder flask in his luggage, suspected to be historically valuable. After two months of legal proceedings and expert examination, he was fully cleared and allowed to leave. The case highlights Turkey’s strict rules on exporting potentially valuable items, even common souvenirs. Travelers are advised to keep receipts, request certificates, and be cautious when buying items abroad.
e-Yaygın System — Government Online Course Platform (Ministry of National Education)
e-Yaygın is a platform by the Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB) that brings together thousands of free courses offered at Public Education Centers (Halk Eğitim Merkezleri) across the country.
In Antalya, these centers are available in almost every district: Muratpaşa, Konyaaltı, Kepez, and others.
ATASEM vs e-Yaygın — What to Choose for Studying in Türkiye?
If you live in Antalya and want to grow, learn a language, or gain a new profession — you've probably heard of these two systems. But what’s the difference?
ATASEM (Antalya Art and Vocational Training Courses)
ATASEM (Antalya Sanat ve Meslek Eğitimi Kursları) is a project by the Municipality of Antalya aimed at developing skills, creativity, and integration of city residents. The courses are free of charge, including for foreigners with a residence permit (ikamet).
IMPORTANT TO KNOW: CALLING AN AMBULANCE AND ACCESSING PUBLIC HOSPITALS
Foreign tourists often report that hotel staff refuse to call an ambulance, directing them to private clinics, and claim public hospitals won’t accept foreigners without local insurance.
Fact: In emergencies, anyone (including tourists) has the right to call an ambulance — it's free.
Public hospitals must accept you with a passport or residence permit.
Services are paid, but much cheaper than in private clinics, with good quality care.
No interpreters in most public hospitals — the Foreigners Support Center can help.
Ambulance Services in Turkey: When It’s Free and When You Might Have to Pay
In Turkey, dialing 112 connects you to emergency ambulance services, which are free in life-threatening situations (e.g., heart attack, stroke, accidents, seizures) for everyone, including tourists and foreigners without insurance or a residence permit.
How Pharmacies Work in Turkey: Tips for Foreigners
If you find yourself in Turkey and need medication, don’t worry — there is a clear and convenient system in place. The key is knowing a few tips that will help you quickly and calmly obtain the medication you need.
Attention tenants! Those who pay in cash may face severe consequences.
Despite all the warnings, it has been found that some tenants are still paying rent in cash at the request of their landlords. In such cases, tenants are also expected to face significant financial penalties.
Victory Day Celebrations on May 9 in Antalya
On May 9 at 3:30 PM, a festive program dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory will begin at Cam Piramit Park.
WARNING: Be cautious when depositing money in banks in Turkey!
There have been cases of fraud in Turkish banks when depositing cash — the account may be opened in someone else’s name. Check all information carefully, keep records of your transactions, and contact the Foreigners Support Center if needed.
MHRS (Central Doctor Appointment System)
MHRS (Central Doctor Appointment System) is used to make appointments at public hospitals and family health centers in Turkey.
What to do if your water bill is unexpectedly high?
If your water bill is higher than usual, contact the water supply organization, submit an appeal, and wait for the meter replacement. During the review process, you don’t need to make any payments. If the meter is faulty, a new bill will be issued; if it's working correctly, you’ll need to pay the overcharge. Meters older than 10 years should be replaced.
Preventing Violence in Intercultural Marriages: How to Maintain Harmony?
In intercultural marriages, open communication, understanding cultural differences, and knowing your rights are crucial to preventing violence. Experts emphasize the importance of seeking legal and psychological support in cases of domestic violence.
Dijital Vergi Dairesi: A simple online solution for tax matters.
Dijital Vergi Dairesi is an online platform for handling tax matters in Turkey. It enables users to file declarations, check and pay taxes, and obtain certificates. To make a payment, you must log in through e-Devlet, select the outstanding balance, and confirm the payment. A receipt is provided in PDF format.
YDM – Your support and confidence in Turkey!
The Centers for Support of Foreigners and Tourists received a letter of appreciation from the Consulate of the Russian Federation in Antalya for the successful organization of the informational meeting. The letter expressed gratitude for their contribution to solving the problems of foreign citizens and supporting their social integration in Turkey.
The connection between terminals at Antalya Airport has been improved: passengers can now use free shuttle buses.
Since April 17, 2025, a free shuttle service has been introduced at Antalya Airport, connecting the Domestic Flights Terminal (T1) with the International Flights Terminal (T2). This initiative greatly enhances the transportation link between the terminals, offering passengers a convenient and cost-free way to travel around the airport.
Jellyfish Migration to Antalya: Professor Issues a Warning for Tourists and Locals
With the arrival of spring, jellyfish migration season has begun in the Mediterranean, as reported by Professor Jale Korun, Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries at Akdeniz University. Between May and September, jellyfish species migrate into the waters, posing a threat to both fishing and human health.
"In case of contact with a jellyfish, rinse the affected area with seawater and seek medical help immediately," the professor advised. Experts warn that the risk of encountering jellyfish increases, especially in tourist-popular coastal areas.
Residency and Citizenship in Turkey by Birth
If your child was born in Turkey, this may provide a path not only to legal residency but also to Turkish citizenship. In this article, we’ll explore the conditions under which a child can obtain Turkish citizenship by birth, as well as the necessary steps and documents required for the process.
How to Obtain Russian Citizenship for a Child Born in Turkey: Step-by-Step Guide
If your child was born in Turkey and at least one parent holds Russian citizenship, you are eligible to apply for Russian citizenship for your child. The process can be completed through Russian consular offices in Turkey or via the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Russia. This article provides a comprehensive list of required documents, including an apostilled birth certificate, parents' passports, marriage certificate, and other essential paperwork. It also outlines processing times and provides contact information for the relevant consulates.
Cartoon competition in Antalya.
The cartoon competition, held in Antalya for the first time in 17 years, was started in Alanya in 2001 and suspended in 2008. This year, in cooperation with the Alanya Municipality and the Alanya Tourism Promotion Foundation (ALTAV), the competition was held for the ninth time after a 17-year break.
Free and Unlimited Wi-Fi at Istanbul Airport (iGA)!
Istanbul Airport (iGA) now provides fast, free, and unlimited Wi-Fi for all travelers — easily connect using SMS, your ticket details, or by scanning your passport at self-service kiosks.
New Rules for Obtaining and Renewing Residence Permits in Turkey from 2025
UPDATE: New Short-Term Rental Regulations in Turkey Effective from 2025
Health insurance for the family in Turkey
In Turkey, employees are provided with health insurance by their employer, and family members with residence permits can be added by submitting the required documents.
How to Register on e-Devlet?
How to Register on e-Devlet
Who: Foreigners with a residence permit or Turkish citizenship (15+ years)
Where: e-Devlet website or app
Required: Kimlik/İkamet, Turkish phone number, e-Devlet password
Password: Obtain at PTT branch
Kepez Municipality Medical Center
The Kepez Municipal Medical Center provides a wide range of medical services, utilizing modern technology and staffed by qualified professionals.
e-Devlet: Turkey's Electronic Government Services
e-Devlet is Turkey's digital government platform, providing access to various public services like address certificates, fines, and social security, available 24/7 online.
Opening a bank account in Turkey for foreigners with a residence permit.
If you hold a residence permit (RP) in Turkey, opening a bank account is relatively straightforward, although there are still certain requirements to be met.
Work Visa
To work in Turkey, Russian citizens need to obtain a work visa and a work permit. The application is submitted through the consulate, and the employer arranges the permit. After the visa is approved, registration in the Social Security system (SGK) is required. An e-Visa does not allow work. The initial permit is valid for up to one year and can be extended.
How to Obtain a Work Permit in Turkey with a Residence Permit
To obtain a work permit in Turkey, find an employer who will apply to the Ministry of Labor. Required documents include your residence permit, passport, diploma, and employment contract. After approval, you’ll receive a work residence permit and be registered in the social security system. A work permit cannot be issued without a tourist residence permit.
Buying and Using a Car with a Residence Permit in Turkey
Purchase:
To purchase a car in Turkey, you must have a Tax ID Number (YKN). The car should be registered with the Traffic Police (Trafik Tescil) within 30 days of purchase.
Taxes and Insurance:
Mandatory insurance is required for all vehicles. The vehicle tax is determined based on the engine capacity.
Import:
You can import a vehicle into Turkey for up to 2 years. After this period, you must either export the car or pay the necessary customs duties.
Usage:
Only the car's owner and close family members are allowed to drive the vehicle.
Sale:
The car can only be sold to foreigners or exported outside Turkey.
Fines:
All fines related to the vehicle must be paid before leaving the country.
How do pharmacies work in Turkey?
In Turkey, most pharmacies are open Monday through Friday from 08:30 AM to 06:00 PM. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), most pharmacies are closed. However, there are on-duty pharmacies (Nöbetçi Eczane) that remain open 24/7 to serve customers.
In Turkey, most pharmacies are open Monday through Friday from 08:30 AM to 06:00 PM. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), most pharmacies are closed. However, there are on-duty pharmacies (Nöbetçi Eczane) that remain open 24/7 to serve customers.
Overstay in Turkey: Fine and Payment
Migration Rules in Turkey
Entry Ban to Turkey
Violation of Stay Duration → Entry Ban from 1 Month to 5 Years
No ban if the violation is ≤ 3 months, the departure is voluntary, and the fine has been paid.
A ban applies if the violation exceeds 3 months (the duration of the ban depends on the length of the overstay). A 3–5 year ban for failure to pay the fine, delayed departure, or deportation.
⚠ Re-entry is only allowed after the fine has been settled.
Beware: Scammers Offering Residence Permit Services
Fraudsters offer expedited residence permit processing for a fee. To protect yourself, always use official government services and verify licenses. Residence permit applications are free and should only be submitted through the official government website.
YDM – your Support and Assurance in Turkey!
The Foreigners Support Center is always available!
Benefits of Residence Permit in Turkey: Comfort and Opportunities
Residence Permit in Turkey (Ikamet) — a legal document for residence. Without it, you can stay for 60–90 days, after which a visa run is necessary.
Advantages:
- Freedom to stay and travel
- Business opportunities
- Access to high-quality healthcare
A residence permit provides comfort and security for your future!
Required documents for obtaining a residence permit in Turkey
To apply for a short-term residence permit in Turkey, you will need to prepare the following documents
How to Buy a SIM Card in Turkey: Tips and Tariffs
SIM card — starting from 800 liras. Buy it at official locations. Documents: passport or Kimlik. Tariffs: Faturalı (contract), Faturasız (prepaid). Tips: choose packages, top up at stores.
Taxis in Turkey: How to Avoid Scams and Pitfalls
A Tourist's Guide: How to Use Taxis in Turkey
Changes in Electricity Pricing from 01.02.2025
Effective from February 1, 2025, the subsidized tariff for high consumption users will be abolished. Transitioning to the "Last Resort Supply" tariff will result in a 60% increase in electricity costs.
Attention, tourists! New scam scheme in Turkey!
Taxis in Antalya — a convenient way to get around the city and its surroundings
No internet? No problem, we're here for you!
Lost your internet connection? Don't worry, we're here to help! The Foreigners Support Center will take care of everything: we'll get in touch with your provider, conduct diagnostics, arrange for a technician, and offer alternative solutions. Life abroad is easier with our support!
What to do if you lose personal belongings during your trip
Long trips with layovers can be tiring, and passengers may lose items, especially if they are valuable.
YDM - FOREIGNERS SUPPORT CENTER
The Foreigners Support Center offers 24/7 assistance to foreigners in Turkey through various communication channels, including phone, chat, and a mobile app with helpful services.
