Moving to Turkey
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Week-by-week what to expect
Cost of Living
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Healthcare in Turkey
Insurance, SGK, hospitals
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Canadian Retirement Guide
Retire in Turkey
from Canada (2026)
CPP and OAS payments abroad, provincial health insurance implications, and why Turkey's Mediterranean coast offers excellent value for Canadian retirees.
Quick Answer
Canadians need an e-Visa (USD $36) to enter Turkey, then a Short-Term Residence Permit for longer stays. CPP and OAS are payable abroad — subject to 15–25% Canadian withholding tax. Provincial health insurance is typically lost after extended absence. Turkey costs 60–70% less than major Canadian cities.
Cost Comparison: Canada vs Turkey
Not sure if the 20-Year Exemption applies to you?
The exemption does not apply automatically. Take the 60-second eligibility check before relying on exemption-based tax examples.
Educational only — not tax or legal advice.
| Category | Toronto/Vancouver | Antalya, Turkey |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bed apartment rent | CAD $2,200–3,500/mo | €250–450/mo |
| Monthly groceries | CAD $500–800 | €150–250 |
| Restaurant meal | CAD $20–40/meal | €5–12/meal |
| Health insurance | Provincial (free) | €400–900/year private |
| Utilities | CAD $200–350/mo | €60–120/mo |
Setup Costs from Canada
Retiring in Turkey from Canada — Setup Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadians need a visa for Turkey?
Canadian passport holders need a Turkish e-Visa, available at evisa.gov.tr for USD $36 (~CAD $50). It allows a 90-day stay within a 180-day period. For longer stays, apply for a Short-Term Residence Permit from within Turkey.
Can Canadian retirees receive CPP/OAS in Turkey?
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) can be paid to Canadian citizens living anywhere in the world, including Turkey. There are no restrictions on receiving these payments abroad. Banking via Wise or direct deposit to a Canadian account and transferring to Turkey as needed is the typical approach.
Does Canada tax residents of Turkey on their Canadian pension?
Under the Canada-Turkey tax treaty, Canadian-source pension income (CPP, OAS, RRSP withdrawals) paid to Turkish residents is subject to a 15–25% Canadian withholding tax depending on income type. Turkey does not additionally tax this income for non-residents. Consult a cross-border tax specialist for your specific situation.
What about provincial health insurance (OHIP etc.) if I leave Canada?
Most provincial health plans require physical presence in the province for a minimum period each year to maintain coverage (typically 6 months in Ontario). If you move permanently to Turkey, you lose provincial health coverage after a transition period. You will need to rely on Turkish private health insurance. Some Canadians maintain a Canadian address to preserve provincial health coverage for visits.
Which Turkish cities appeal most to Canadian retirees?
Antalya is the most popular destination for Canadian retirees — warm Mediterranean climate, beach access, established international expat community, and excellent value. Fethiye appeals to Canadians seeking a smaller, quieter coastal base. Istanbul attracts those who want urban sophistication and cultural depth.
How does Turkey compare to popular Canadian retirement destinations like Costa Rica or Portugal?
Turkey offers similar or better value than Costa Rica and significantly better value than Portugal in 2026. Antalya is roughly 30–40% cheaper than comparable Portuguese coastal areas. The climate is comparable or better (more sunshine). Turkey's main relative disadvantage is further from Canada geographically, and no EU passport pathway.