Opening a bank account in Türkiye as a foreigner

To open a bank account in Türkiye you usually need a passport, a Turkish tax number and an address, and many banks also ask for a residence permit. The bank decides, and checks are stricter for some nationalities, including Iranian nationals.

Usual documents

• Valid passport
• Turkish tax number (from the tax office or online)
• An address in Türkiye (lease or utility bill)
• Residence permit (at most banks)
• Source of funds and purpose of the account

Key points

• Property buyers can often open an account before residency to transfer funds.
• Banks apply anti-money-laundering and sanctions rules and may restrict or close accounts.
• E-wallets such as Papara are not a substitute for a bank and have limits.

Steps with Imperial

1. Obtain the tax number
2. Prepare documents and the source-of-funds explanation
3. Coordinate with the bank and attend with you

Frequently asked questions

Can I open a Turkish bank account without residency?

Some banks open non-resident accounts for property buyers or in specific cases, but most prefer residency.

Can Iranians open a bank account in Türkiye?

It is possible, but checks are strict and some banks decline; complete documents and a clear source of funds matter a lot.

How do I get a Turkish tax number?

With your passport at a tax office or online; it is usually issued the same day.