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New to Turkey?

Istanbul Sunset

If you have recently moved to Turkey, it can take some time to adapt to your new surroundings. We have put together some information to help those of you who already live in or intend to move to Turkey. Whilst every care has been taken in preparing this information as accurately as possible, the Embassy cannot accept any liability for the information contained here. The Irish in Turkey are mainly concentrated in the coastal regions near Izmir and Antalya. We also have small Irish communities in Istanbul and Ankara. There is also an Irish Expats in Turkey group on Facebook that you may find useful in connecting with other Irish people in Turkey.

Living and Working in Turkey

Before leaving Ireland please consult our current travel advice for Turkey and check that you have:

  • Valid passport
  • Long Form Birth Certificate (with The Hague Apostille stamped on it by Consular Section of the Department of Foreign Affairs to prove its authenticity)
  • Adequate funds to maintain you while you establish yourself
  • Private comprehensive medical insurance (EHIC does not cover Turkey).

The Embassy recommends that you ensure your passport is up to date and shows next-of-kin details on back of passport. You should also keep your family informed of your address and contact details in Turkey at all times.

We recommend that you always carry some proof of identity. Official photographic ID is often required for credit/debit card payments.

We recommend that Irish citizens travelling or living abroad register their contact details with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The information will allow us to contact you, and provide assistance, if necessary and possible, if there is an unforeseen crisis such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or if you have a family emergency while you are overseas.

Advice to emigrants

Cross Care Migrant Project also provide advice to emigrants.

It is recommended that anyone intending to move to Turkey does as much research as possible.