I'm settling in

Healthcare, a longer-term home, family life and the everyday systems that make a city work.

Member-written, not professional advice. These guides explain how things work in practice; they are not legal, immigration, tax or medical advice. Where a guide links official sources, those set the current requirements.

Healthcare

How Healthcare Actually Works in Istanbul

Istanbul healthcare for expats: when to use a pharmacy instead of a doctor, how to book a public hospital slot through MHRS, what private care actually costs, and who to call in an emergency.

Member-written guideLinks official sourcesLast reviewed 10 August 2026

Everyday Life

Family Life in Istanbul: Raising children with confidence

Moving to Istanbul with children brings a new set of questions. How do you choose a school? What’s the difference between a kreş and an anaokulu? The good news is that thousands of Turkish and international families successfully raise children in Istanbul. The city offers excellent healthcare, a wide choice of schools, plenty of parks, and countless family-friendly activities. This guide explains what you need to know to help your family settle into everyday life.

Member-written guideLinks official sources

Home & Housing

Daily Life in Istanbul: The little things that make a big difference

Moving to Istanbul isn’t difficult—it just takes a little getting used to. Finding an apartment, setting up utilities, buying groceries, paying bills, ordering food, dealing with deliveries… none of these are especially complicated on their own. It’s the hundreds of little things that slowly wear you down until they become second nature. This guide covers the practical side of everyday life so you can spend less time figuring things out and more time enjoying Istanbul.

Member-written guideLast reviewed 10 August 2026

Home & Housing

Renting an Apartment in Istanbul: What Foreigners Should Know

Renting an apartment in Istanbul as a foreigner is not just about finding a nice flat at the right price. The neighbourhood you choose can affect your daily life far more than the apartment itself. You need to understand deposits, agent fees, aidat, heating, the contract, address registration and, importantly, the questions that reveal problems before you sign.

Member-written guideLinks official sources