Moving to Turkey with your family can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Relocating to Turkey means adjusting to a new culture, lifestyle, and environment, which can be a big step for parents and children alike. Naturally, many families find themselves asking, “Is moving to Turkey a good idea?”
The simple answer is yes, thanks to its warm climate, affordable cost of living, quality education options, and welcoming culture. To help you feel prepared and confident, here’s a complete guide to things to know before moving to Turkey.
Understanding Turkey Visa Requirements
Your country of origin determines whether you need a visa to enter Turkey. Over 100 countries can enter without a visa for short visits (usually up to 90 days within 180 days). For these visitors, the main requirements are a passport valid for at least six months from their date of entry and, in some cases, a return ticket.
If your nationality requires a visa, you can likely get a Turkish entry visa online (e-Visa) quickly and easily. However, some applicants may need to meet additional criteria, such as holding a valid visa or residency from a specific country like the Schengen Area, the U.S., or the U.K. It’s crucial to check the official government website for the most current Turkey visa requirements.
Types of Residence Permits in Turkey
For stays longer than the permitted visa-free period, you’ll need a Turkish residence permit. When applying for a residence in Turkey, there are six types of residence permits, but for families, the most popular ones are listed here:
Short-Term Residence Permit: A short-term residence permit in Turkey is 1 to 2 years, depending on the purpose of the visit. A popular way to secure this permit is by buying real estate. As of late 2025, an investment of over $200,000 in residential property can qualify you for a two-year residence permit in Turkey. You can renew it as long as you own the property.
Family Residence Permit: This permit is for foreign spouses, minor children, and dependent children of a Turkish citizen or resident. The family residence permit Turkey offers can be valid for up to three years and allows children to attend school without a student visa.
Permanent Residence Permit: After eight years of continuous legal residence in Turkey, you can apply for an indefinite, long-term permit. This gives you many of the same rights as a Turkish citizen.
If you are looking for a more permanent move, Turkey offers a path to citizenship through investment. You can apply for Turkish citizenship by purchasing real estate with a minimum value of $400,000. The property must be held for at least three years, after which you can sell it. This path to citizenship is a popular option and also includes your family.
Cost of Living in Turkey
According to the latest data from Numbeo, the cost of living in Turkey is 42.8% lower than in the United States and around 50% lower than in many European countries. When comparing property prices, public transportation, shopping, markets, utilities, and dining, Turkey’s cost of living in 2025 proves to be significantly more affordable, making it an attractive destination for both residents and expats.
Besides, opening a bank account in Turkey as a foreigner is a simple process. By visiting a bank, non-residents can open an account with just a passport or citizenship ID, a Turkish tax ID number, proof of address, and, depending on the bank, a few additional documents, allowing them to easily manage their finances and use Turkish lira for daily expenses.
Working in Turkey as an Expat
To work in Turkey as a foreigner, you need a work permit. Usually, your employer applies for it through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. You’ll need your passport, employment contract, and proof of qualifications.
If you’re applying from abroad, you must get a work visa from a Turkish consulate or embassy. Once approved, the permit allows you to live and work in Turkey legally.
Staying in Turkey with Turkish citizenship, you can enjoy full rights, including the ability to work, access healthcare, and pursue education.
Safety Index, Housing, and Best Cities to Live in Turkey
According to Numbeo, the crime rate in Turkey is 43.16, which is considered moderate to low. The safety score for walking alone during daylight is 73.65, which is relatively high. In family-friendly neighborhoods, the safety index is even higher. When buying a house in Turkey as a foreigner, it’s important to research neighborhoods carefully to ensure safety and peace of mind. Here are some of the safest cities to consider in Turkey;
Antalya ranks at the top with a safety score of 84. Favored by both expats and locals, the city offers a secure environment for families with children, and each district provides amenities to meet your needs. In particular, the Aksu and Serik regions, with their latest developments and top-tier property projects, are ideal for families looking for comfort and security.
Discover the latest project in Serik, Antalya, designed to offer families a safe, cozy, and luxurious lifestyle within a welcoming community. Housing in Turkey offers diverse options, ranging from detached villas with private pools to city-center apartments in complexes with resort-style amenities.
İzmir, Trabzon, Mersin, Ankara, and İstanbul follow Antalya in terms of safety. Among these cities, Antalya is especially preferred by expat families with children due to its coastal charm and relatively affordable property prices. If you are considering moving to Antalya, Turkey, you can also check out the new project in Aksu, Antalya, which is close to the airport and beaches, making it ideal for comfortable living.
International School in Turkey for Expat Families with Kids
International schools in Turkey are widely available, with some of the most well-known being Robert College, Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle in Ankara, Deutsche Schule Istanbul, Private Galileo Galilei Italian High School, and various American colleges. The best international schools in Turkey offer education in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish. Families considering moving to İstanbul, Turkey, will find a wide range of options to choose from.
Across Turkey, these institutions provide education from kindergarten through high school, and some even have affiliated universities, such as TED College, Bahçeşehir, Doğa, and Gökkuşağı Schools. For Russians moving to Turkey, especially in Antalya, some schools follow the Russian curriculum while also offering Turkish lessons, supporting children in learning Turkish, and helping them to overcome the language barrier.
Health Insurance in Turkey
Turkey is a well-known destination for healthcare, offering everything from dental treatments and surgeries to hair transplants and aesthetic operations. The healthcare system in Turkey is highly developed, with well-educated medical staff and modern facilities. In most cities, you can find four to five state hospitals, alongside a wide range of private hospitals.
As an expat, you and your family can benefit from state hospitals through the social security system, known as SGK in Turkey. In addition, international health insurance in Turkey is widely accepted, giving foreigners flexibility and access to both private and public healthcare. Many health insurance options are available, making it easier to choose a plan that suits your needs and lifestyle.
A New Beginning in Turkey
Moving to Turkey with your family can be a rewarding choice. With its affordable living costs, quality healthcare, safe cities, and good schools, Turkey offers a comfortable and welcoming lifestyle. Whether you plan a short stay, long-term residence, or even citizenship, the country provides many opportunities for a fresh start.
