Job Discussion Forums

ezronamo · Joined: 13 Dec 2008 Posts: 12

Hi, an american friend of mine says you can't open a bank account in turkey without being a permanent resident. He would stash his income under his matress, then take the money, put it in a turkish friends account, and from their wire it to his U.S. account. I am an american who banks with bank of america. Anyone have any suggestions how to cheaply, easily and SAFELY deposit/stash income so it is easily accessible?

much thanks

matthew156 · Joined: 30 Jan 2009 Posts: 140 Location: The Majik Kindom

first of all you don't need an account to wire money abroad, I don't think so anyway just a passport and probably your employment info. if you hava a work permit you can open an account and some schools direct deposit into your account. if you don't have one (work permit) then you get cash. here's a heads up on cash: don't keep all your money in your wallet spread it out evenly in different pockets. a teacher i knew got mugged on payday they went straight for his wallet, which is why i prefer direct deposit. paydays in Turkey are once a month and those days are the days to be extra careful.

are you scared yet?

anyhoo, don't worry be happy!!!!!!!! Shocked

Regards

Matt

ezronamo · Joined: 13 Dec 2008 Posts: 12

thanks

Otterman Ollie · Posted: Mon Mar 16, 2009 8:56 am Post subject:

Sorry don't understand this post. If you have a job then you have an address, so it follows you can open a bank account.

ezronamo · Joined: 13 Dec 2008 Posts: 12

so you are implying, otterman, that you can open a bank account if you are working on a tourist visa, so long as you have a permanent place to live?

Otterman Ollie · Posted: Mon Mar 16, 2009 1:56 pm Post subject:

I am stating a fact that, if by definition you are in fact employed by a suitable employer who will pay your salary into a bank account that he/she may even open for you. If necessary using the address of the school to assist the application of said account.
Tourist visas have been a fact of life here for a long time, it is not going to stop you from opening an account.
Unless of course you are in fact working illegally!

moharem bey · Joined: 15 Apr 2007 Posts: 23 Location: Istanbul

All you need is a passport and an address (your home, your employer, friend). I have had my account with Garanti for quite some time and have never had any trouble. When/if you rent an apartment, just change your mailing address.

You may need a tax number to open an account. again, it's easy all you need is a passport. The bank will be able to give you their requirements.

ezronamo · Joined: 13 Dec 2008 Posts: 12

What kind of taxes/rate does the turkish government take off the top?
thanks

fishmb · Joined: 08 Jul 2009 Posts: 184 Location: Istanbul

Make your employer get you a work visa and then you'll be fine.