Moving to Turkey
Complete relocation guide
Moving Checklist
Before & after arrival
Relocation Timeline
Week-by-week what to expect
Cost of Living
Budgets across major cities
Healthcare in Turkey
Insurance, SGK, hospitals
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Moving from Ireland
Moving to Turkey
from Ireland (2026)
Turkey is increasingly popular with Irish expats seeking sunshine, affordable living, and a slower pace of life. Here's everything you need to know before making the move.
Quick Answer
Irish citizens can enter Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days. To stay longer, apply for a residence permit (ikamet). Turkey offers a dramatically lower cost of living than Ireland — typically 60–70% cheaper — with good weather, affordable healthcare, and a growing expat community.
Visa & Entry for Irish Nationals
Irish passport holders can enter Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day rolling window. No e-Visa is required — simply present your Irish passport at the border. For stays longer than 90 days, you must apply for a short-term residence permit through the e-ikamet system.
Cost of Living: Ireland vs Turkey
Turkey offers substantial savings compared to Ireland. Rent in Antalya or Alanya is 70–80% cheaper than Dublin. Groceries, restaurants, and utilities cost a fraction of Irish prices.
Monthly Budget in Turkey (for Irish Expats)
Healthcare
Turkey has a two-tier healthcare system: public (SGK) and private. Most expats use private hospitals, which offer excellent care at a fraction of Irish prices. A private GP visit costs €15–30. A comprehensive health insurance policy costs €35–90/month and is required for your residence permit application.
Banking
Open a Turkish bank account once you have your residence permit and tax number. Transferring money from Ireland via Wise (TransferWise) offers good exchange rates. Most Turkish banks have English-language apps and good online banking.
Popular Destinations for Irish Expats
- Antalya: Large city with international connections, great infrastructure, warm climate.
- Fethiye: Large British and Irish community, stunning scenery, genuinely affordable.
- Alanya: Budget-friendly, good beaches, growing expat scene.
- Istanbul: World-class city, good for professionals and those who want urban life.