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Tourist visa

A tourist visa is issued on entry into Turkey and is valid for multiple trips for 90 days. Costs vary, but for British citizens it is currently £10.

Residence permit

A residence permit is necessary to have the telephone/internet connected, import goods into Turkey, buy a car, apply for a work permit and to start a business. A residence permit can be obtained from the Police Office in Manavgat (can take up to 1 month). It can also be obtained from the Turkish Embassy in London, but is usually more expensive.

ID requirements

It is a requirement in Turkey to always carry your ID with you. As British citizens do not have ID cards, it is advisable to carry your residence visa or a photocopy of your passport with you at all times.

Work permit

Obtaining a work permit is a complex procedure requiring the completion of lots of paperwork. Application forms and more information can be obtained by visiting www.yabancicalismaizni.gov.tr (parts of the site are in English).

Starting your own business

It is advisable to form a Limited Company if you want to start a business in Turkey. A limited company must have 2 or more partners but it is not necessary to have a Turkish partner. However, you are only allowed to supervise so, in theory, you are not allowed to work yourself. If you employ Turkish citizens you may be able to obtain a work permit.

Travel insurance

If you are staying for short periods, your normal travel insurance should cover you for any medical expenses incurred.

Health insurance

If you are living here, there are a number of companies in Turkey, providing comprehensive and relatively inexpensive health cover.

Bringing a car into Turkey

You are permitted to bring a car into Turkey for a period of 3 months. This can be extended for a further 6 months and then you have to take the car out of the country.

Driving in Turkey

Your normal driving license is valid, although after 6 months you should obtain a Turkish license (which, at the moment, does not involve taking a driving test). Turkish drivers are renowned for their erratic driving, so be vigilant. It is unwise to drive motor bikes.

Car insurance

You must have traffic insurance in Turkey. Comprehensive insurance is optional, but advisable. It is a legal requirement to have your car documents with you at all times, whether you own the car or are hiring one.

Bringing electrical goods into Turkey

You are permitted to bring electrical goods into Turkey, but you may be charged excessive import duty at customs. Most things are available in Turkey. It may be worthwhile looking at www.turkishconsulate.org.uk (unfortunately some of the information is out of date).

Mobile phones

If you intend to use a Turkish sim card in your English mobile phone, the phone will have to be registered. This will require proof of purchase and receipts.

Bringing pets into Turkey

You are permitted to bring pets into Turkey, but they have to be checked by a certified vet prior to travel and be up-to-date with all injections.

Churches

There are churches in Antalya and Alanya. Alanya also has a Christian grave yard.

Cost of living

The cost of living is lower than in most other European countries, with the exception of petrol.

Interest rates

If you have money to invest, the banks in Turkey provide very competitive interest rates (usually 14 - 18%).