Turkey is magical. Its culture attracts expats and tourists alike, with more than 11 million tourists visiting the city in 2014. There are over 210,000 foreigners living in Turkey – 26,000 are workers and 25,000 come to Turkey to study. One of the first things you will have to do when you come to Turkey is open a bank account. And the truth is, opening a bank account in Turkey is pretty easy and straightforward.
Documents you need to open a bank account in Turkey:
- At least one form of identification (ID card, passport – not older than 10 years, birth certificate)
- Turkish Tax Number
- Residency permit is optional and it depends on your bank.
Best Turkish banks for expats
These banks have branches all over the country and make your banking as a foreigner easier.
Yapi Kredi Bankasi is one of the first banks in Turkey that performed foreign business. It offers a large selection of options for expats, making opening a bank account in Turkey easy.
- Utility bill payments
- Standing payments
- Rent payments
- Money transfer
- Online banking is available
İşbank is the largest bank in Turkey and the first bank to open in the country. It offers several English-speaking branches available for expats and has plenty of expat banking options available.
- Online banking
- English-speaking branches
- Money transfer
- Payments tracking
HSBC branches are available all over the country. The bank is a convenient choice for expats with a foreign bank account. English-speaking staff is available at all times and you can start the application process online.
- HSBC Advance, Premier and Credit Card accounts.
- Commercial and Business banking.
- 24/7 online banking
How long does the process take?
The process depends on the bank but it shouldn’t take longer than a few weeks to receive your bank card.
Congratulations! You’re now ready to start your life in Turkey!
Have you found your apartment yet? Visit Spotahome Istanbul for a selection of apartments and rooms available for rent in some of Istanbul’s most popular areas!
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