Digital Nomads in Turkey (2025 Edition)

Best Cities, Visa Options & Cost of Living for Remote Workers

Turkey is rapidly becoming a top destination for digital nomads — and for good reason. With its rich culture, affordable cost of living, excellent cuisine, fast-growing tech infrastructure, and stunning coastline, the country offers a powerful mix of lifestyle and connectivity. Whether you’re coding from a seaside café in Antalya or taking client calls from a co-working space in Istanbul, Turkey may be your ideal next base.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best cities for remote workers, visa options, internet access, and what it actually costs to live and work here in 2025.

🌍 Why Digital Nomads Love Turkey

• 🌐 Strong and affordable internet (especially in major cities)

• ☀️ Mild Mediterranean climate

• 💸 Low cost of living compared to Europe or the US

• 🏝 Access to beautiful beaches, mountains, and cities

• 🥘 World-class food scene

• ✈️ Direct flights to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East

• 📱 Tech-savvy population and wide use of online tools

Plus, Turkey’s timezone (GMT+3) is ideal for remote collaboration with both Europe and the Gulf countries.

📍 Best Cities in Turkey for Digital Nomads (2025 Picks)

1. Istanbul

• ✅ Vibrant city life and co-working spaces

• ✅ International airport with 24/7 connections

• ✅ Great cafes, nightlife, and art scene

• ❗ Busy traffic and higher rental prices

Best for: Experienced nomads looking for an international vibe

2. Antalya

• ✅ Beachside cafes and resorts

• ✅ Excellent expat infrastructure

• ✅ Lower cost of living than Istanbul

• ✅ Great weather 8+ months a year

Best for: Nomads seeking a warm, relaxed, seaside lifestyle

3. Izmir

• ✅ Laid-back Aegean charm

• ✅ Easy access to Çeşme, Alaçatı, and nearby beaches

• ✅ Growing startup community

• ✅ Affordable long-term stays

Best for: Freelancers and creatives wanting space and sea

4. Fethiye, Bodrum & Other Coastal Towns

• ✅ Small-town comfort + coastal beauty

• ✅ Growing nomad population in the summer

• ✅ Slower internet in remote areas, but improving

Best for: Seasonal digital nomads or writers, artists, and solo entrepreneurs

🛂 Visa Options for Digital Nomads in Turkey (2025)

Turkey doesn’t yet have a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, but remote workers can live and work comfortably through these options:

🔹 1. Tourist Visa + Residence Permit

• Entry visa (or e-visa) followed by a short-term residence permit

• Valid for up to 1–2 years, renewable

• Proof of income, address, and health insurance required

🔹 2. Property-Based Residence Permit

• Buying real estate in Turkey allows you to apply for a residence permit

• No minimum income required (just ownership + insurance + address)

🔹 3. Work Permit (for freelancers contracting with Turkish companies)

• Requires a local sponsor/employer

• Not ideal for fully remote nomads but worth exploring if you plan to collaborate long-term

✳️ New for 2025: Rumors suggest a pilot “Remote Worker Visa” program may launch soon for citizens of certain countries (EU, UK, Canada). Stay tuned.

💰 Cost of Living in Turkey for Digital Nomads

Here’s a general idea of monthly expenses in 2025:

Istanbul (USD) Antalya (USD) Izmir (USD)

Rent (1BR, central) $600–$1,000 $400–$700 $450–$750

Coworking Space $100–$200 $80–$150 $80–$150

Internet (Home) $10–$15 $10–$15 $10–$15

SIM Plan (15GB) $8–$12 $8–$12 $8–$12

Meals & Groceries $200–$300 $180–$280 $180–$280

Transportation $30–$60 $20–$40 $20–$40

📶 Internet & Tech Setup

• Home internet speed: 35–100 Mbps (fiber widely available)

• Mobile internet via Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom

• Co-working spaces in big cities include:

  • Kolektif House (Istanbul)

  • WORKINTON (nationwide)

  • Originn (Izmir)

  • ATÖLYE (Istanbul)

VPNs are widely used and legal in Turkey.

🧳 What to Know Before You Arrive

• Bring unlocked devices (SIM cards are widely available)

• Learn a few basic Turkish phrases — many locals are helpful but not fluent in English

• If you're staying longer than 90 days, apply early for a residence permit

• Taxes only apply if you earn income from Turkish clients or stay long-term + work locally

👩‍⚖️ How Our Office Helps Digital Nomads

As a law firm experienced with international clients, we assist with:

• Residence permit applications

• Health insurance and address registration

• Company formation if you plan to base your freelance business in Turkey

• Legal contracts with Turkish clients

• Legal help in disputes or overstay issues

📌 Ready to work remotely from Turkey?
Let us help you make your stay stress-free and legal:

🌐 www.ensariyigitcancakmak.av.tr
📧 info@ensariyigitcancakmak.av.tr
📞 +90 533 194 52 14