Moving To Turkey
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Turkey is globally known to be a country with rich historical and cultural heritages. A home to a number of ancient civilizations and monarchies, Turkey evokes interest not only in tourists but also in the expat communities world over.
Turkey is a transcontinental country located in Western Asia and Southeastern Europe. It’s bordered by Greece and Bulgaria to the west, Georgia to the northeast, Armenia and Azerbaijan to the east, and Iran, Iraq, and Syria to the southeast.
The country is a democratic, secular, and parliamentary republic with a diverse culture and economy. Turkey country is known for its rich history, including being the birthplace of many civilizations such as the ancient Ottoman and Byzantine Empires.
How International Sea & Air Shipping Can Help with Moving to Turkey
A plan of a relocation between two continents is not easy that you can pack a few boxes of household goods and then load them in your car or a van and wheel away! An international relocation needs the assistance of an experienced moving company to help you. An international relocation can be quite challenging. There are documents that you will need to obtain, you have to give consideration to the distance that needs to be covered for your household goods to arrive at the new country, the time and cost involved in the entire process, and a lot more! It can be really hard to process at a time.
But when you are engaging an international moving company like us, we guarantee a hassle-free international relocation to Turkey from the USA for you. At International Sea & Air Shipping we have an experienced team and all the expertise to move your household goods, car from the country of origin to the country of destination and we operate globally.
As an international mover we have been operating since quite a few years and offering end-to-end relocation solutions for our clients for their move in different countries. Our team of relocation experts will handle A to Z of the move when you move to Turkey from the USA. We provide a wide range of international relocation services including packing household goods, providing the right freight and container choices, and also offering guidance in other aspects of the move. With us by your side, look forward to a hassle-free relocation to Turkey from the USA.
About Turkey
One of the six independent Turkic states, Turkey is a democratic, secular, unitary and constitutional republic. Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, the country has significant geostrategic importance. Turks started occupying the present area of Turkey in the 11th century.
The eight countries bordering Turkey are Bulgaria, Greece, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Turkey is divided into seven census regions, and is the world’s 37th largest country. Known as a transcontinental Eurasian country, Asian Turkey makes up 97 percent of the republic, while European Turkey comprises just three percent. The two regions are separated by the Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara, and the Dardanelles. Mount Ararat is the Turkey’s highest point and Lake Van is the largest lake in the country.
Turkey’s culture is diverse, blending elements of the Oguz Turkic, Anatolian, Ottoman and Western traditions. Turkish culture blends elements of a modern western state with traditional religious and historical values, which is also evident in various iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia cathedral in Istanbul.
As an independent Turkic state, Turkey is a member of Council of Europe, NATO, OECD, OSCE, and the G-20 major economies and has the world’s 15th largest GDP and 17th largest nominal GDP. The tourism sector is one of the main contributors to Turkey’s economy. The country’s trade partners are Germany, France, UK, Italy, Iraq, Russia, China, and US.
Customs Regulations for Turkey
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
- Passport for customer and dependents (with valid entry stamp)
- Residence Visa
- Residence Permit
- Work Permit
- Application Letter
- Inventory (showing brand name and serial numbers of electrical appliances)
- Letter of Guarantee issued by customer’s Turkish employer
- Letter authorizing destination agent to clear shipment
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
- ANY CUSTOMER WHO IS A TURKISH CITIZEN MUST BE PRESENT FOR CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
- Used household goods and personal effects permitted for import if for customer’s own use
- Household goods must arrive within two months before or six months after the customer’s passport is stamped for entry into Turkey
- Customers that hold a Turkish Passport must have lived abroad for a continuous period of at least two years to import items free of duty that were acquired outside of Turkey
PROHIBITED ITEMS
- Weapons and ammunition
- Narcotics and drugs
- Explosives
RESTRICTED ITEMS
- Food
- Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products
- Perfume
- Used appliances, electronics, etc. should not be packed in original cartons, or they will be considered new
- Electrical goods should be compatible with the number of family members in the household
- Duplicate electrical items are dutiable
- Fax machines and telecommunication equipment are restricted
MOTOR VEHICLE REGULATIONS
- CUSTOMER MUST BE PRESENT FOR CUSTOMS CLEARANCE OF ANY VEHICLE
- Vehicle must arrive three months before or three months after customer’s passport is stamped for entry into Turkey
- Turkish citizens must obtain a labor permit for importation of a motor vehicle
- Vehicles over three years old must meet specific restrictions before import
- A non-Turkish national may avoid taxes and import duty when if a Letter of Guarantee is provided
- If vehicle is included in container with household goods, household goods will not be released until vehicle is cleared
- No minibuses allowed
- Documents required:
- “Carnet de Passage”
- Owner’s Passport
- Residence Permit
- Purchase Invoice
- Black Book (motor and chassis number)
- Letter of Guarantee from Customer
PET REGULATIONS
Health Certificate required
NOTE – Customs regulations are subject to change at any time. The proceeding information is a brief summary of customs regulations applicable to household goods shipments to this destination and is being provided for general guidance to assist our Agents and Customers. Since such regulations are subject to change without notice, International sea & air shipping cannot be held liable for any costs, damage, delays, or other detrimental events resulting from non-compliance. Always double check with your local embassy or consulate.
Call our International Moving Specialists @ 1 (866) 315-4170
Things you need to consider while moving to Turkey from the USA
There are significant changes involved when you have planned to move to Turkey from the USA. Climates, culture, food and general lifestyle – all will be different and you need to prepare for these changes.
However, there are several reasons why someone might choose to make this move. Turkey is a culturally rich and diverse country with a unique blend of modern and traditional lifestyles.
The cost of living is generally lower in Turkey than in the USA, and the country offers a high quality of life, with modern amenities and a vibrant cultural scene. Additionally, Turkey is strategically located for those interested in traveling throughout Europe and Asia, making it an attractive option for those looking to expand their horizons.
When you are relocating to Turkey from the USA you will need to have a proper plan. This planning should involve knowing the visa process, researching the household costs and healthcare availability. You should also invest time and research thoroughly on the local language and cultural practices. These will make the process of the transition smoother for you.
Important things to know while moving to Turkey from the USA
A seat and a bridge between the East and the West, Turkey amalgamates the oriental and occidental cultural attributes. Naturally, it garners huge interests among tourists. But the pleasant weather, low cost of living, good quality of life also attracts many expats to call this country a second home.
Here is some important information that can help you move to Turkey from the USA for a long term and stay in the country.
Visa process
Turkey has different visas – work visa, study visa, family reunification visa etc. However, if you are going to work and stay in Turkey for a long term, then you need to first secure a job with a Turkish employer who can apply for the work visa for you. Once you receive the work permit you will be able to enter the country. However, within 180 days you have to apply and obtain a temporary residence permit to stay and work in Turkey.
Similarly, if you are relocating to Turkey from the USA on a student visa, you will have to obtain the residency permit as well to remain in the country.
Turkey also offers family reunification visa. You will be eligible for this visa in the event of meeting any of the following requirements –
- If you are a spouse of a Turkish citizen
- If you are a minor child of a Turkish citizen
- If you are a dependent child (over 18 years of age) of a Turkish citizen
Additional information
How to obtain a Permanent Residency in Turkey?
To become a permanent resident in Turkey you can apply for a long-term residence permit if you have been living in the country for a minimum of 8 consecutive years.
How to win a Citizenship in Turkey?
If you have married a Turkish citizen or you have been living in the country for a continuous period of 5 years you will be considered eligible for Turkish citizenship.
How to move your belongings to Turkey?
The best probable solution is to carry them with you if you have light items. However, if your belongings contain heavier household goods then you will need them to ship to Turkey. You can get this done duty free, however, for the same reason you cannot sell these items. Further, you have to declare all these shipped items to the Turkish customs department within 6 months of your arrival when you move to Turkey from the USA.
Best reasons to move to Turkey from the USA
Low cost of living
Compared to that of the USA, the cost of living in Turkey is moderate.
Pleasant weather
Turkey has distinct weather zones and seasons to be enjoyed.
Good healthcare system
The country offers modern and easily accessible healthcare facilities.
Safe society
Turkish people are welcoming and the society in general offers a safe atmosphere to settle down.
Cultural heritage
The rich historical and cultural heritage of Turkey means you will never be out of options for recreational trips.