Istanbul Expat Community

01/06/2026

Have You Been Affected by Immigration Policy Changes?
Share Your Experience. We Are Listening.
Help Shape Better Immigration Policies in Türkiye.

A new Director General of Migration Management has recently been appointed in Türkiye.

As part of our ongoing work with expatriates and foreign residents, Expat Solutions is preparing an article that will outline some of the most common challenges and unintended consequences arising from immigration policy changes introduced in recent years. The goal is to present constructive recommendations and practical solutions that may help improve the experience of foreigners living in Türkiye.

The articles posted by Kağan Orhan the founder of Expat Solutions and the Istanbul Expat Community at the https://www.turkiyetoday.com/author/kagan-orhan on English News Platform Turkiye Today.

Examples of topics that may be addressed include the removal of the taahhütname option for couples living together prior to marriage, as well as the difficulties faced by certain property owners who purchased real estate before the introduction of the USD 200,000 threshold but remain unable to qualify for a Type B residence permit.

We would like to hear directly from the foreign community. If you have been affected by a policy change, administrative practice, or immigration-related regulation that created unexpected difficulties, please share your experience and suggestions in the comments below.

We will review all feedback and consider the most reasonable, practical, and widely supported concerns for inclusion in our upcoming article, which will be submitted to the relevant authorities.

30/05/2026

🌊 The Bosphorus Turns Turquoise as Dolphins Return to Istanbul’s Waters

In recent weeks, the waters of the Bosphorus have taken on striking turquoise shades, creating breathtaking views across Istanbul. Experts associate the color change with an increase in algae concentrations in the sea.

Adding to the spectacle, groups of dolphins have been spotted swimming through the Bosphorus on numerous occasions. Videos and photographs shared by residents show pods of dolphins gracefully moving between the European and Asian shores.

While scientists continue to monitor the environmental factors behind these changes, the combination of turquoise waters and frequent dolphin sightings has provided Istanbul with some truly remarkable natural scenery.

📍 Bosphorus, Istanbul
📸 Have you spotted dolphins in the Bosphorus recently? Credits:

29/05/2026

New Head of Migration Directorate Appointed to Office Following Absurd 900% Fee Hike Venture

ANKARA — In a major reshuffle aimed at restructuring the country’s migration management, Muhammet Selami Yazıcı has been appointed as the new President of Türkiye’s Directorate General of Migration Management, effective May 25, 2026. Yazıcı, a seasoned bureaucrat who has served within the migration directorate since 2017, succeeds Hüseyin Kök, who held the position from February 2025 until May 2026. The appointment signals a strategic pivot toward restoring systemic stability, predictability, and problem-solving mechanisms within the country's immigration framework.

The transition follows growing criticism over the previous administration’s policy direction. During Kök's tenure, the directorate faced scrutiny for implementing sweeping, unilateral rule changes—such as the sudden ban on sponsorship agreements (taahhütname)—which left thousands of foreign residents in legal limbo rather than addressing localized administrative gaps. Furthermore, arbitrary pricing hikes on residence permit fees, reportedly enacted without broader government alignment, fueled widespread frustration. Observers note that Yazıcı’s extensive background within the institution signals a shift away from reactive bans toward more practical, solution-oriented policies designed to streamline procedures for the expatriate community.

Ankara appoints M Selami Yazıcı as new migration directorate head, prioritizing tech modernization and institutional experience

19/05/2026

As Istanbul Expat Community, we respectfully commemorate May 19 – Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day.

On May 19, 1919, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk initiated the National Struggle, marking a decisive step toward the establishment of the Republic of Türkiye. By dedicating this meaningful day to the youth, he entrusted them with the responsibility of safeguarding and advancing the principles of the Republic.

On this significant occasion, we honor the legacy of this historic moment and reaffirm the importance of youth, unity, and progress.

Happy May 19 to all. 🇹🇷

15/05/2026

HEAVY TRAFFIC THIS EVENING in ISTANBUL

Heavy traffic is expected tonight on Istanbul’s European side as the parade passes through Şişli, Beşiktaş, and Sarıyer. Major roads like Büyükdere Avenue and the TEM connections will face serious congestion. Metro stations, especially Taksim, Mecidiyeköy, and 4. Levent, are likely to be packed like sardine cans. Buses and dolmuş routes in the area may be delayed or redirected, so commuters should allow extra time and consider using the metro where possible.

Galatasaray's celebration tour expected to cause major traffic jams in central Istanbul

09/05/2026

Can foreigners buy real estate using a mortgage? It could be difficult, but not impossible.

Türkiye continues to attract international buyers looking for investment opportunities, relocation options, and long-term lifestyle plans.

At Expat Solutions, we guide our clients through the full property purchasing process in Türkiye, helping them navigate the legal and financial steps with clarity and confidence.

In our latest article, we break down the complete picture of how property purchases and financing work for foreign nationals in Türkiye — step by step.

Read the full article here:

Can foreigners in Türkiye purchase property by using a housing loan? The simple answer is yes, but it involves many complexities

05/05/2026

🎤 30% PROMO – Hassan OJ: Breathing Brown

The world has never felt quite like this — widening generational gaps, global uncertainty, shifting identities, and the rise of stand-up as a way to process it all.

Hassan OJ is back with a brand-new show.

After being arrested and navigating life as a Gen Z voice constantly arguing with his own inner thoughts, Hassan dives into his experiences in Turkey and Pakistan, gender dynamics, relationships, and everything in between — all filtered through his quirky, dark sense of humor.

It’s personal. It’s uncomfortable at times. And it’s unapologetically honest.

📆 Date: May 6, 2026 – Wednesday
⏰ Time: 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Kadıköy Aylak Bar
🌍 Language: 100% English
🎟️ Tickets:
https://tuzbiberstandup.com/etkinlik/hassan-oj-breathing-brown-6

🤝 In collaboration with , Istanbul Expat Community followers receive an exclusive 30% discount.

Use code: ISTEXPATS30

04/05/2026

Stop scrolling if you’re tired of surface-level small talk! 🛑🎲

Looking back at our recent Gamify Club meetup, it’s clear that the best connections happen when the phones go down and the board games come out. We don’t just play games; we build a community of like-minded individuals who value meaningful conversation as much as a winning strategy.

What makes Gamify Club different? ✨

We’ve curated a space specifically for the 25–45 age group where you can truly be yourself. Here’s why our members keep coming back:

* Meaningful Connections: Move beyond “What do you do?” and find friends who share your mindset, culture, and sense of fun.
* Gender Balanced & Diverse: We strictly ensure our events are inclusive and balanced, creating a dynamic vibe for everyone.
* 100% Smoke-Free: Clean air, clear minds. All our gatherings are strictly non-smoking so you can focus on the fun.
* A Global Tribe: Meet expats from all over the world who are looking for the same thing you are: a real community.
Whether you’re a tabletop veteran or a total beginner, there’s always a seat saved for you at our table.
Ready to level up your social life? 🚀

Don’t just watch from the sidelines—be part of the next one!
👉 Click the link in our bio to join our next meetup or send us a DM to get on the guest list.

06/01/2026

A new ruling by Türkiye’s highest civil court has made it easier for landlords to evict tenants who fail to pay building management fees or utility bills, even if monthly rent is paid in full.
The decision confirms that unpaid ancillary costs such as apartment maintenance fees, electricity, and water bills can now trigger eviction under the same legal procedure used for unpaid rent. The ruling applies nationwide and is binding for all courts.

Read more: https://www.turkiyetoday.com/nation/all-about-eviction-rules-under-turkiyes-new-court-ruling-on-unpaid-bills-3212473