Istanbul has become an attractive living center for immigrants and digital nomads from all over the world with its cultural diversity, historical richness and modern infrastructure. The city blends both traditional and modern lifestyles. The increase in the digital nomad lifestyle and the number of immigrants in recent years makes Istanbul a unique place. In this article, we will examine the advantages of living in Istanbul as a foreign citizen, the best neighborhoods for digital nomads to live in and general living conditions.
Living as a Digital Nomad in Istanbul
Istanbul has hosted countless civilizations throughout history and has carried this heritage to the present day. The city bears the traces of great civilizations such as the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Istanbul, which is a cultural treasure with world-renowned structures such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Sultanahmet Mosque, hosts modern life on the one hand and a deep-rooted history on the other. Living in Istanbul as a foreigner means experiencing this rich cultural texture. At the same time, expats who come to the city have the opportunity to live different cultures together.
Istanbul’s infrastructure is quite developed at the metropolitan level. Transportation networks, public transport systems, modern offices, cafes and restaurants, and various living spaces make the city a dynamic place. Remote work in Istanbul offers a lot of opportunities and there are many coworking spaces for digital nomads. The infrastructure in the city is at a very good level, especially in terms of internet access and modern offices. This allows digital nomads to do their jobs efficiently.
There are also countless social events and organization opportunities for foreigners living in Istanbul! This creates a great opportunity for both digital nomads to expand their social circles.
There are neighborhoods and areas in Istanbul specifically designed for foreign citizens. Both digital nomads can live a more comfortable life in these areas in terms of social aspects.
The cost of living in Istanbul may be slightly higher compared to other cities in Turkey. However, the cost of living in Istanbul offers more affordable prices compared to major cities in Western Europe and North America. Daily expenses such as accommodation, food and transportation are ideal for many expats.
Advantages of Living in Istanbul as a Digital Nomad
One of the most appealing aspects of Istanbul is the variety of living options it offers. For those who want to live in a city that is compatible with the digital nomad lifestyle, flexible working hours and location-independent business models, Istanbul is like a paradise. Here, people can do their work from wherever they want, without being tied to an office. Many digital nomads prefer this city not only to do their work, but also to gain cultural experiences, meet new people and explore the world.
Expat life in Istanbul has countless advantages. One of the biggest advantages for expats in Istanbul is the international connections the city offers. Since Istanbul is a city full of people from both Asia and Europe, there are many different job opportunities and networking opportunities here.
Remote working is a very common lifestyle for digital nomads in Istanbul. Especially the cafes and co-working spaces in the most central parts of Istanbul attract the attention of digital nomads. Since working hours are flexible, people can start their day with a walk on the beach in the morning or take a stroll along the Bosphorus in the evening. Istanbul offers both business and pleasure! Explore remote workspaces in Istanbul right now and find your most comfortable work environment!
The Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul for Expats
Istanbul has many neighborhoods that appeal to different lifestyles. The best places to live in Istanbul for remote workers and expats are usually distinguished by their cultural diversity and infrastructure. Neighborhoods such as Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, Şişli are among the areas where expats live densely in Istanbul.
- Kadıköy is very active both socially and culturally. With its location close to the Bosphorus and its young population, Kadıköy is an ideal living space for digital nomads. There are also countless cafes, bars, and restaurants here, which enriches social life.
- Beşiktaş is one of the places where the heart of Istanbul's business world beats. An ideal area especially for digital nomads, Beşiktaş offers offices and co-working spaces with strong internet connections. In addition, numerous social events are organized here.
- Şişli is a very popular neighborhood for those who want to live as a foreign citizen in Istanbul. Due to its advantageous transportation and proximity to the city center, immigrants can live a comfortable life here.
The best places to live in for expats are rich in terms of transportation facilities and social opportunities. Neighborhoods such as Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, Şişli are the most suitable places for both working and living.
Digital Nomad Visa Turkey
Digital nomads coming to Istanbul must obtain a Turkish Digital Nomad Visa. This visa provides long-term stay permission for remote workers. This visa, which is applied to digital nomads coming to Turkey, helps attract more foreign labor to the city and turns İstanbul into a global business center.
In order to obtain a Turkish digital nomad visa, you must apply for the Turkish Digital Nomad Identification Document online. When you receive this document, you will be able to apply for a digital nomad visa! In order to obtain this document, you must meet certain requirements. You can find them below:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Biometric photo
- Diploma / a document that replaces a diploma
- Document showing that the applicant works in the Digital Nomad field: Contract if working for a company (except for companies in Turkey), employment contract with the company if the applicant is self-employed (except for companies located in Turkey)
- Monthly income of $3,000 or annual income of $36,000
The main challenges faced by digital nomads in Istanbul include language barriers, bureaucratic procedures and heavy traffic. However, many local and foreign citizens in Istanbul speak English, which makes daily life and business life easier. The traffic problem is being alleviated by transportation infrastructure development works and expansion of public transportation networks. New metros and various road and bridge projects aim to facilitate transportation.
Istanbul has become a major attraction for both immigrants and digital nomads. The infrastructure, cultural diversity, job opportunities and quality of life in the city make Istanbul attractive to many foreigners. Living in Istanbul for expats is a rich experience both professionally and personally. With spaces and social events that suit the needs of digital nomads, Istanbul makes living and working an attractive option!
