Close
newsletters Newsletters
X Instagram Youtube

Türkiye emerges as one of the most favorable retirement destinations in 2025: Report

An older woman strolls through a traditional market in Türkiye. (Adobe Stock Photo)
Photo
BigPhoto
An older woman strolls through a traditional market in Türkiye. (Adobe Stock Photo)
September 19, 2025 03:00 AM GMT+03:00

Türkiye is among the most favorable countries for retirement in 2025, ranking 33rd out of 44 countries selected for the list, with stronger economics but lower safety measures, the Global Retirement Report released by Global Citizen Solutions said.

The findings show that Türkiye distinguishes itself with economic accessibility, ranking 5th globally in this category.

The report indicated that Türkiye is emerging as a favorable retirement destination for those prioritizing affordability, straightforward residence procedures and financial advantages, particularly in comparison with more expensive Western European countries.

However, lower rankings in safety and integration highlight that economic appeal is counterbalanced by concerns about security and the ease of adapting socially.

For retirees, Türkiye offers opportunities grounded in cost-effectiveness and flexibility based on foreign exchanges, but lifestyle and social factors remain more complex than in top-ranked destinations such as Portugal, Spain, or Greece.

Weaker Turkish lira drives Türkiye’s economic appeal

Economics emerges as Türkiye’s strongest area, where it ranks 5th worldwide, reflecting relatively low living costs for those earning in foreign currency, competitive property prices, and overall financial accessibility.

The country also performs moderately well in retirement procedures, placing 20th, which indicates that obtaining residence is achievable within a reasonable timeframe and under clear requirements.

According to the report, Türkiye offers competitive tax conditions, ranking 21st in tax optimization.

The absence of wealth and inheritance taxes on local assets can be appealing for retirees planning long-term settlement or managing family assets, it said.

Although Türkiye applies a worldwide taxation system, it does not levy wealth tax or inheritance tax on assets located in the country, a framework that can benefit retirees with property or investments, even though foreign-sourced income remains taxable, the report noted.

An older couple enjoys a coastal view in Türkiye. (Adobe Stock Photo)
An older couple enjoys a coastal view in Türkiye. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Where Türkiye falls behind: Safety, social adoption

The report points to weaker results in categories that affect daily life beyond finances. Türkiye ranks 42nd in safety and integration, signaling challenges in personal security perceptions and the process of adapting socially as a foreign resident. Quality of life, at 28th, reflects a mixed picture—while climate, culture, and lifestyle are appealing, issues such as infrastructure, healthcare quality, or social services may weigh on retirees’ decisions.

Citizenship and mobility also stand at 28th, showing that while Türkiye offers a path to citizenship after five years and allows dual nationality, its passport strength and global mobility options lag behind some higher-ranked destinations.

WhatsApp Breaking News, Direct to You.
WhatsApp Follow Türkiye Today on WhatsApp for real-time updates and key insights from Türkiye and beyond.

Pathways to residence, citizenship in Türkiye

Türkiye grants a Short-Term Residence Permit (STRP), which usually takes about four months to process. Applicants are required to demonstrate proof of at least €1,000 in monthly income, and the permit covers spouses and dependent children.

Residency can lead to citizenship after five years, and Türkiye’s allowance of dual citizenship provides flexibility for retirees who want to keep their original nationality.

A retirement destination refers to a country or location where people choose to live after they stop working, often influenced by affordability, quality of life, healthcare access, safety, and ease of residency.

September 19, 2025 03:00 AM GMT+03:00
More From Türkiye Today