Banking in Turkey
Best banks in Turkey for expats & digital nomads
Opening a bank account is one of the first things you do after moving to Turkey. Here are the accounts that work for newcomers and non-residents, plus the fintech we would set up before you fly.
How to open a bank account in Turkey
A Turkish tax number (vergi numarasi), obtainable free at a tax office with a passport, is a hard prerequisite; you also generally need a Turkish phone number and, for many banks, proof of address. Non-residents without a residence permit are more likely to succeed at state banks (Ziraat, VakifBank); EEA neobanks like Revolut and N26 do not serve Turkey.
Top banks in Turkey
Ziraat Bankası
traditionalState-owned with the largest branch network; widely reported as the most flexible for foreigners.
Türkiye İş Bankası (İşbank)
traditionalExtensive branches and an English-capable app; policies can vary by branch.
Garanti BBVA
traditionalSpanish-owned; frequently cited as the most expat-friendly for its English app and support.
Yapı Kredi
traditionalLarge private bank with a broad retail product range.
Akbank
traditionalMajor private bank with strong digital tools and English support.
VakıfBank
traditionalState-owned; reported as accommodating for foreigners holding a tax number.
International accounts & neobanks
Available in Turkey; widely used by freelancers to receive USD/EUR/GBP.
Supports sending and receiving Turkish lira within Turkiye; full multi-currency hold for Turkey residents may be limited.
Availability changes; confirm on each provider's site.
Next steps in Turkey
See the full Turkey tax, cost and visa profile, or compare Turkey with other destinations. Not sure where to go yet? Take the finder quiz.