Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Istanbul

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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?

Istanbul Italian School - Teaches an Italian curriculum. British International School, Istanbul International Community School - both teach an international curriculum. 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/

 

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. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.