Moving from Finland

Moving to Turkey
from Finland (2026)

Turkey's warm climate, low costs, and relaxed pace of life make it an appealing destination for Finnish expats escaping northern winters. Here's your guide.

Quick Answer

Finnish citizens enter Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days. For long-term stays, a residence permit is required. Finland and Turkey have a double taxation treaty. Living costs in Turkey are typically 65–75% lower than in Finland, making it one of the most dramatic cost-of-living improvements available to Finnish retirees and remote workers.

Last updated January 2026

Entry & Residency for Finnish Nationals

No visa is needed for stays under 90 days. For longer residency, apply for a short-term (tourist) residence permit through e-ikamet. Requirements: rental contract, valid passport, health insurance, proof of sufficient funds.

Finnish Pension in Turkey

The Finland–Turkey double taxation treaty typically means Finnish pension income is taxed only in one country. Many Finnish retirees in Turkey continue to receive their Finnish pension without Turkish tax liability, though individual circumstances vary. Always verify with a cross-border tax adviser.

Cost of Living

Monthly Budget in Turkey (for Finnish Expats)

1-bed apartment (Antalya)
€180–350/mo
Utilities
€30–55/mo
Groceries
€120–200/mo
Eating out (2–3x/week)
€60–120/mo
Private health insurance
€35–90/mo
Transport
€10–30/mo
Total (single, comfortable)
€650–1,200/mo

The Climate Advantage

For Finnish expats, the climate difference is transformative. Antalya averages 300+ days of sunshine per year. Mediterranean winters are mild (10–15°C), a stark contrast to Finnish winters. This is often cited as the primary reason Finnish retirees choose Turkey.

Where Finnish Expats Tend to Settle

  • Antalya: Popular, practical, direct flights from Helsinki.
  • Alanya: Particularly popular with Scandinavian retirees, very affordable.
  • Bodrum: More upscale, popular with Scandinavian yacht crowd.