In our previous blogs, we touched on many topics surrounding financial matters in Turkey, including how to acquire a home or real estate in Turkey, how to open a bank account and get a credit card in Turkey as a foreigner, as well as how to open a blocked bank account for visa or residence permit applications.

Lately, there has been a lot of misinformation circulating about banking practices in Turkey and what is required of foreign nationals, especially for first-time residence permit applications and renewals.

In this blog post, we aim to address some of the most commonly asked questions about Turkish banking and address some misconceptions when it comes to residence permits.

Can I Submit Bank Statements in English in My Residence Permit Application?

Unfortunately, bank statements written in foreign languages like as English are not acceptable. All bank statements must first be translated into Turkish by a qualified translator and then notarized by a local noter.

Do My Bank Statements Need to Be Apostilled for Residence Permit Applications?

In certain regions in Turkey such as Trabzon, bank statements must also be apostilled in addition to being translated into Turkish.

There are regions in Turkey where the bank's signature is necessary on the document. A bank balance certificate, detailing the amount of funds that will be frozen, may be made available by some financial institutions when opening an account.

However, in the majority of cases, bank statements only need to be translated and notarized. This is mandatory when you make your initial application for a residence permit in Turkey and when you seek to renew your permit. However, there may be exceptions for renewals and you may not be required to submit notarized bank statements.

As always, it is best to err on the side of caution and take them with you in case officers request them.

(Head here for more information about the notary and apostille process in Turkey.)

What Can I Submit as Proof of Income for Residence Permits?

Turkish immigration officials require applicants to provide proof of adequate income for the duration of their residence permits. You should strive to submit your most recent bank statements going back one to six months and/or three months of regular income.

Additionally approved forms of income include work contracts, pension payments, rental income, affiliate income, and so on.

Head here for the government’s list of documents required for residence permit applications.