Tax number and bank account in Türkiye for foreigners: your first step before purchasing a property

Before you buy a property in Türkiye, you need two basic things: a tax number and a Turkish bank account. The first is legally required to transfer ownership, and the second makes the payment process authenticated and secure, and is essential if you are planning residency or citizenship. In this article we explain to you how to get them easily.

First: Tax number (Vergi Numarası)

What is it and why do you need it?

A tax identification number given to foreigners, and requested in Tabu transactions, opening bank accounts, electricity, water, and Internet subscriptions, and rental contracts. Without it, the property cannot be registered in your name.

How do you get it?

• From any tax office (Vergi Dairesi) in Türkiye: bring your valid passport, fill out a simple form, and the number is often issued within minutes, and for free.
• Online from the Turkish Tax Administration portal in some cases.
• From the Turkish consulate in your country if you are outside Türkiye.

If you have Turkish residency, your foreign number (starting with 99) is also used as a tax number.

Second: Bank account

Why is it important?

• It documents payment for the property, which is essential for citizenship and residency files and later when selling.
• It enables you to obtain a Foreign Currency Purchase Certificate (DAB) when converting dollars or euros, which is required in your citizenship file and for some tax exemptions.
• Makes it easier to pay bills, taxes, and receive rent.

Paperwork usually required

• Valid passport.
• Tax number.
• Address, proof of address in your country or in Türkiye may be required.
• A phone number, and sometimes information about the source of income or funds.

Conditions vary from one bank to another and from one branch to another, and some banks open accounts for non-residents more easily than others. Because anti-money laundering rules have become more stringent, prepare proof of the source of your funds if you are transferring large amounts.

Third: Transferring the price of the property

1. Transfer the amount from your account abroad to your Turkish account in dollars or euros.
2. If the property is for nationality: transfer the amount in the required manner and request a DAB certificate from the bank.
3. Pay the seller by bank transfer to his account, and write in the transfer description the property number or address.
4. Keep all receipts and account statements.

Common errors

• Payment for the property in cash or through people: difficult to prove later.
• Transferring the amount to the account of a person other than the registered owner.
• Postponing opening the account until the day of the title deed, then the date is delayed due to the bank.

At Al-Jadoua Real Estate, we accompany you to extract the tax number and open the account within our services upon purchase. Read also the guide to Turkish citizenship by real estate investment, or contact us to arrange the steps before your arrival.

Banking procedures vary depending on the bank and change from time to time. Check the current terms with the relevant bank.