How to Apply for an Electricity Subscription in Turkey as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)
Are you a foreigner living in Turkey and wondering how to get an electricity subscription for your new apartment? Whether you're renting long-term, investing in property, or relocating for work, setting up utilities is one of the first and most important steps toward establishing a comfortable life in Turkey. In 2025, the process of applying for electricity as a foreigner still requires in-person attendance — either by you or your authorized legal representative. This guide explains every step in detail and emphasizes why consulting a qualified attorney can save you from costly mistakes.
Table of Contents
Why You Need an Electricity Subscription in Turkey
Who Can Apply: Foreigner or Legal Representative?
Required Documents for Foreigners (Updated for 2025)
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Process
What to Expect During the Appointment
Can You Apply Online?
Key Notes for Tenants vs Property Owners
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The Role of Legal Representation
Why You Should Consult a Lawyer Before Applying
Schedule a Consultation
Contact Links & Social Media
1. Why You Need an Electricity Subscription in Turkey
Electricity subscriptions in Turkey are not automatically transferred with a property. If you're moving into a home or apartment, you must personally register the subscription in your name or have someone legally authorized to do so on your behalf. Without a valid contract, you could face disconnection or even legal consequences.
For foreigners, registering for electricity is not just a utility matter — it’s a legal transaction that interacts with residency, tax, and sometimes even immigration status.
2. Who Can Apply: Foreigner or Legal Representative?
As of 2025, Turkish electricity providers require the applicant — either the foreigner themselves or a legally authorized representative — to apply in person at the designated regional office.
Power of attorney must be officially translated and notarized in Turkey. Remote applications (online or by mail) are not accepted for foreigners.
If you're abroad or not fluent in Turkish, working with a local attorney can simplify the process tremendously.
3. Required Documents for Foreigners (Updated for 2025)
To apply for a new electricity subscription in Turkey as a foreigner, the following documents are required:
Passport (with notarized Turkish translation)
Valid Residence Permit Card
TAPU (Title Deed) or Rental Contract
Tax Number (Vergi Numarası)
DASK (Compulsory Earthquake Insurance)
Bank IBAN in Turkey (for deposit refund and automatic payments)
Power of Attorney (if applying through a representative)
Turkish mobile number (for SMS confirmations)
💡 Tip: Ensure your address is properly registered with the Göç İdaresi (Immigration Directorate) before starting the application. (Registering address in Turkey)
4. How to Apply – Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Identify your local electricity provider depending on your city (e.g., Boğaziçi Elektrik, CK Enerji, etc.)
Step 2: Collect all required documents
Step 3: Book an appointment (if required) through the provider’s website
Step 4: Visit the electricity provider’s office
Step 5: Submit your documents and sign the subscription contract
Step 6: Pay the initial deposit fee (refundable)
Step 7: Electricity will be activated within 1–2 business days
5. What to Expect During the Appointment
The staff may not speak English, so it’s strongly advised to bring a Turkish speaker or legal interpreter. The process includes:
Reviewing your documentation
Asking about previous electricity usage
Confirming the DASK policy and address match
Collecting your deposit payment (varies by provider)
Issuing your contract and sending confirmation via SMS
6. Can You Apply Online?
Only Turkish citizens with e-Devlet access and verified Turkish IDs can currently apply online for electricity services. For foreigners, online application is not available in 2025.
However, you may be able to book an appointment or upload preliminary documents online to shorten in-office time.
7. Key Notes for Tenants vs Property Owners
If you're a tenant: Bring a rental agreement signed by the owner, and make sure your name is officially registered at the address.
If you're an owner: Your name must match the TAPU and your DASK policy must be active.
🛑 If you’re not registered at the address, the provider may reject your application, regardless of your documentation.
8. Common Fails to Avoid
Submitting an expired DASK or wrong address
Attempting to apply online without eligibility
Failing to register your Turkish tax number
Using an unauthorized representative
Forgetting to notify your electricity provider when moving out
9. The Role of Legal Representation
Many foreigners opt to have their lawyer or licensed agent handle this process, especially if they are:
Not fluent in Turkish
Temporarily abroad
Unsure about legal documents or address registration
Managing multiple properties or tenants
Having a lawyer ensures that:
Your documents are complete and valid
Any discrepancies in your residence or DASK are resolved in advance
The provider accepts your power of attorney without objection
You are protected from future legal or billing issues
10. Why You Should Consult a Lawyer Before Applying
The electricity subscription process is deceptively complex for foreigners. A single mismatch — such as your name on the DASK or residence permit not aligning with your rental contract — can result in long delays or outright rejection.
💼 Consulting a lawyer can help you:
Review your documents for consistency
Prepare a valid power of attorney
Translate and notarize required files
Register your address officially
Communicate directly with the utility provider
If you’re unsure where to begin or need personalized support, you’re encouraged to schedule a consultation directly with a trusted legal advisor.
11. Schedule a Consultation
For professional assistance with electricity subscriptions or any other residence-related legal matters in Turkey, I offer one-on-one legal consultations. I specialize in helping foreigners navigate Turkish bureaucracy efficiently and safely.
✅ Book a meeting directly via my Appointment System
12. Contact & Social Media
Stay updated with expert insights on residency, citizenship, and investment in Turkey:
🌐 Website: www.ensariyigitcancakmak.av.tr
📞 WhatsApp Channel: Residence, Citizenship & Law – By Attorney Ensari Çakmak
📢 Telegram (Russian): @investinturkiye
Conclusion:
Applying for electricity in Turkey as a foreigner in 2025 may seem straightforward — but the devil is in the details. In-person presence, strict documentation, and bureaucratic nuances make it more complex than it appears. Whether you are settling in, buying property, or managing rentals, getting legal help is not just a good idea — it’s a strategic move. Don't leave your utilities to chance — consult a lawyer today.
