Sending and receiving money in Istanbul: banks, transfers, and ATMs

This guide covers the practical side of moving money in Istanbul for visitors and people settling in Turkey: how international transfers work, what payment services operate locally, how to open a bank account as a foreigner, and what to know about Turkish currency and exchange.

The information is neutral and factual. It describes what exists and how it generally works, but does not recommend any bank or service. Rules about transfers, taxes, visas and residence change often and differ by person and nationality; always check with your own bank and with official Turkish authorities before you move money. Your country’s banking and tax rules may restrict what you can do in Turkey, and Turkey’s rules may restrict what Turkish institutions can do with your country.

At a Glance

#	Place	Best for	Good to know
1	Bank transfer via SWIFT	Direct account-to-account	Works worldwide; ask your bank about their SWIFT fees and the receiving bank's process.
2	Western Union	Cash pickup or bank deposit	Branches and agents in Istanbul; PTT (postal service) locations also offer Western Union services.
3	MoneyGram	Cash pickup or mobile wallet	Agent locations across Turkey; check the website for pickup points in your area of Istanbul.
4	Wise	Bank-to-bank transfers with mid-market rates	Online only; recipient needs a Turkish bank account. Check the official website for current service status.
5	Remitly	Multiple payout options	Online via app or website; payout methods vary by location within Turkey.
6	PayPorter	Cash collection or bank transfer	Branches in Istanbul and major cities; also available through authorized agents.
7	Turkish banks: opening an account as a foreigner	Deposit and current accounts	Visit a bank branch in person; bring passport and tax number. Ziraat Bank (state-owned) is generally the most foreigner-friendly.
8	Ziraat Bank	State bank; broad foreigner access	Branches in every district of Istanbul and virtually every town in Turkey.
9	DenizBank	Private bank; non-resident accounts	Branches across Istanbul; call to confirm remote opening eligibility before visiting.
10	Currency exchange offices	Manual currency conversion	Found in tourist areas, near metro stations, in shopping districts, and in bazaars. Bring your passport.
11	ATMs and cards in Istanbul	Cash withdrawal with foreign cards	ATMs in metro stations, shopping malls, bank branches, and street corners across all districts.

How We Chose

This list describes how money moves in and out of Turkey and what providers and methods are available. The order is NOT a ranking and NOT a recommendation. Entries are based on publicly available information from official sources, verified as of October 2026. The list includes banks that serve foreign customers and money transfer services with branches or agents in Turkey. It explains methods (bank transfer, cash pickup, mobile wallet) and how they work, but it does not compare prices, speed or quality of service.

1. Bank transfer via SWIFT – Direct account-to-account

International money transfer sent directly from one bank to another using the SWIFT network. The sender's bank and the recipient's Turkish bank handle the transfer. Most Turkish banks are connected to SWIFT and accept incoming international transfers. This method requires the recipient's full Turkish bank details, including IBAN and bank name. The transfer arrives in the recipient's local bank account and may take several business days. SWIFT is the method used when transferring from your own country's bank.

Good to know: Works worldwide; ask your bank about their SWIFT fees and the receiving bank's process.

Tip: Confirm with the recipient's bank in advance that they can receive international transfers; some accounts or account types may be restricted.

2. Western Union – Cash pickup or bank deposit

International money transfer service with agent locations throughout Turkey. Senders in over 200 countries can send money; receivers in Turkey pick up cash at a Western Union agent location, redirect the money to a bank account, or receive it through selected digital banking apps. Cash pickup does not require a bank account. Transfers may arrive within minutes for urgent needs. Over 10,000 agent locations operate across Turkey, including in Istanbul, making it widely accessible.

Good to know: Branches and agents in Istanbul; PTT (postal service) locations also offer Western Union services.

Tip: Cash pickup requires valid government ID matching the name used to send the money. The reference code is valid for 30 days.

3. MoneyGram – Cash pickup or mobile wallet

Digital money transfer service allowing senders to choose how recipients receive funds: cash pickup at an agent location, bank account deposit, or transfer to a mobile wallet account. Available from many countries to Turkey. Tracks transfer status online. Recipients can pick up in cash without a bank account or redirect the money to digital payment apps.

Good to know: Agent locations across Turkey; check the website for pickup points in your area of Istanbul.

Tip: Some payout options depend on which bank or mobile wallet is available in the recipient's region.

4. Wise – Bank-to-bank transfers with mid-market rates

Online money transfer service that sends money directly into Turkish bank accounts using mid-market exchange rates. Funded from a bank account, card, or existing balance in the sender's country. Transfers typically arrive within 1–2 business days. The service shows fees separately and the final amount upfront. As of May 2023, Wise restricted new Turkish Lira top-ups and accounts for new users, but existing customers can still make transfers to Turkey.

Good to know: Online only; recipient needs a Turkish bank account. Check the official website for current service status.

Tip: Wise does not offer cash pickup; money must go to a recipient's bank account.

5. Remitly – Multiple payout options

Online money transfer service with multiple ways to receive funds: direct bank account transfer to Turkish banks, cash pickup at agent locations, or transfer to mobile wallet services like Papara and Paycell. Popular for family remittances and smaller regular transfers. The app shows exchange rates, speeds and fees before confirmation.

Good to know: Online via app or website; payout methods vary by location within Turkey.

Tip: Mobile wallet transfers arrive faster than bank transfers but require the recipient to have an account with that service.

6. PayPorter – Cash collection or bank transfer

Licensed money transfer service with branches and authorized agents across Turkey. Receives international transfers and delivers them via cash collection at a PayPorter location or bank account transfer. Can also send money from Turkey to approximately 200 countries. Operates through its own network and partnerships.

Good to know: Branches in Istanbul and major cities; also available through authorized agents.

Tip: Compare network and payout method options on the website before sending, as availability varies by corridor.

7. Turkish banks: opening an account as a foreigner – Deposit and current accounts

Foreign nationals can open bank accounts in Turkey, whether resident or not, with or without a residence permit. Turkish banking law does not legally require a residence permit. Most banks require a valid passport, Turkish tax identification number, and Turkish phone number. Residents may have easier access to full account features and credit products. Non-residents typically open basic deposit or current accounts, often in multiple currencies. Requirements vary by bank and branch; some may request proof of address or a minimum opening deposit.

Good to know: Visit a bank branch in person; bring passport and tax number. Ziraat Bank (state-owned) is generally the most foreigner-friendly.

Tip: Try calling the branch first to confirm current requirements; policies differ between branches of the same bank. A Turkish tax number takes minutes to obtain online.

8. Ziraat Bank – State bank; broad foreigner access

Turkey's largest state-owned bank with the widest branch network. Known for accepting foreign customers, both residents and non-residents, and for serving as the most accessible option. Offers accounts in Turkish Lira, US Dollar, and Euro. Mobile app (Ziraat Mobil) includes English interface. Supports SWIFT international transfers. Government banking policy directs the bank to serve residents and visitors.

Good to know: Branches in every district of Istanbul and virtually every town in Turkey.

Tip: Bring a Turkish phone number for mobile banking; you can obtain a local SIM card at any telecom shop or airport.

9. DenizBank – Private bank; non-resident accounts

Explicitly accepts non-resident foreign nationals without a residence permit. Offers flexible account types, including time deposit accounts. Accepts applicants with property in Turkey or those planning to settle. May request a minimum opening deposit. Supports international transfers and SWIFT. Remote onboarding is available for some applicants.

Good to know: Branches across Istanbul; call to confirm remote opening eligibility before visiting.

Tip: One of the few banks with explicit non-resident policies; suitable for international investors or those not yet holding residence permits.

10. Currency exchange offices – Manual currency conversion

Licensed exchange offices operate throughout Istanbul and Turkey for cash-to-cash currency conversion. You bring physical cash and exchange it for Turkish Lira or another currency. No bank account or identity verification beyond a passport is typically required for small amounts. Exchange rates vary by office and by the moment; offices display rates prominently. Faster than international transfers if you need cash on the same day.

Good to know: Found in tourist areas, near metro stations, in shopping districts, and in bazaars. Bring your passport.

Tip: Compare rates at several offices before exchanging large amounts; rates can differ. Avoid unofficial exchangers.

11. ATMs and cards in Istanbul – Cash withdrawal with foreign cards

ATMs are widely available throughout Istanbul and accept major foreign debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex). Withdrawal limits depend on your card issuer and the ATM operator. Turkish ATMs display the exchange rate and fees before confirming withdrawal, letting you decline if the cost is too high. Cards may be declined if your bank has restricted Turkey or if fraud detection flags the transaction. Notify your home bank before traveling so it does not block your card.

Good to know: ATMs in metro stations, shopping malls, bank branches, and street corners across all districts.

Tip: Some ATMs charge higher fees; bank ATMs often charge less than convenience-store machines. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees.

Good to know

• Rules and restrictions on sending money out of Turkey change frequently and depend on your nationality, residence status and the amount. Check with your Turkish bank and with your home country's financial regulator before making large transfers abroad. Your country may require you to report transfers above a certain amount; your bank can advise you on this.
• Before opening a Turkish bank account, obtain a Turkish tax identification number (vergi numarası). You can get one online in minutes via the Revenue Administration website. It is a prerequisite for all banks and is free.
• If you are opening a bank account as a non-resident foreigner, ask specifically which accounts you are eligible for. Some banks limit non-residents to basic current or deposit accounts without credit cards, overdrafts or investment services. A residence permit expands your options at most banks.
• Every investment, including deposits and bonds offered by Turkish banks, carries risk. Do not assume that a deposit account is risk-free. Understand what you are signing before putting your money in any product. Ask the bank in writing what happens if it fails.
• Turkish banks may ask many questions about where your money comes from and why you are sending it. This is anti-money-laundering compliance, not a sign of problems. Have clear documentation of the source of funds ready so transfers are not delayed.
• If you plan to live or work in Turkey, get a residence permit (ikamet) as soon as you can. It simplifies all banking, legal, and tax matters and gives you access to full banking services including credit and investment products. Rules and procedures for residence permits differ by nationality.

General information we collected from public sources, not financial, tax, investment or legal advice. We are not financial experts, tax advisers or lawyers. Rules, fees and offers change, so check with the provider or an authorised adviser.

Explore Nearby Sending and receiving money

Related guides

• 
  AI

  Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
  Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar Route: Two Markets, Six Centuries
• 
  AI

  Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
  Istanbul Markets Morning Tour: Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar Itinerary
• 
  AI

  Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
  Beyoğlu and Galata Walk: Modern Istanbul from Taksim to the Tower
• 
  AI

  Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
  Ziraat Katılım: Participation Banking Services in Istanbul

More guides

• 
  AI

  Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
  Paying and cards
• 
  AI

  Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
  Banking Complaints and Consumer Rights in Turkey
• 
  AI

  Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
  Unrecognised Card Transactions and Payment Disputes

Browse more: All Finance Guides · All Other

?

FAQ

Can I open a bank account in Turkey as a foreigner without a residence permit?

Yes. Turkish banking law does not require a residence permit to open an account. However, individual banks may have internal policies that differ. Most require a valid passport, Turkish tax number, and Turkish phone number. A residence permit makes approval easier and unlocks more account features (credit cards, overdrafts, investment accounts). If one bank refuses, try another branch or a different bank.

What documents do I need to open a bank account in Turkey?

You need a valid passport or national ID, a Turkish tax identification number (obtained free online in minutes), and a Turkish phone number. Residents should also bring proof of address (rental agreement or utility bill). Non-residents may be asked for a minimum opening deposit or proof of financial standing. Requirements vary by bank and branch.

What payment methods work for visitors in Istanbul?

Major debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops, and ATMs. ATMs are common and accept foreign cards. Cash in Turkish Lira is preferred at street markets, street food stalls, and small shops. Exchange offices and ATMs let you convert foreign cash or withdraw Lira from your card. Inform your bank before traveling so your card is not blocked as suspicious.

Are there restrictions on sending money out of Turkey?

No outright ban exists, but transfers are monitored by Turkish authorities (MASAK) for anti-money-laundering compliance. Transfers are generally permitted if the bank understands who is sending money, to whom, and why. Large transfers may be delayed, investigated, or require additional documentation. Rules depend on your nationality, residence status, and the amount. Check with your Turkish bank and your home country's regulator before transferring large sums.

What is the fastest way to receive money in Turkey?

Cash pickup at a Western Union agent location can deliver money within minutes. Bank transfers (SWIFT or online services like Wise) typically take 1–2 business days. Mobile wallet transfers may be faster if your recipient has an account set up. The fastest method depends on your situation and what works for your recipient.

Can PayPal or similar payment services be used in Turkey?

PayPal is not available in Turkey due to regulatory and data-storage requirements. Other international platforms like Wise and Remitly do operate in Turkey, but services and restrictions change. If you need to receive payments or use a specific service, check its official website to confirm current availability in Turkey.

What should I know about taxes and currency regulations for residents sending money abroad?

Residents of Turkey must comply with Turkish foreign exchange rules and tax laws. Large transfers abroad may require documentation and reporting. Rules depend on your residency status and the amount transferred. You must speak with a licensed tax adviser or your Turkish bank about your specific situation. Your home country's tax rules may also apply, especially if you still have residency or citizenship there.

Do Turkish banks offer services in English?

Most major banks including Ziraat, Yapı Kredi, İşbank, and international banks like HSBC and Citibank offer English-language interfaces on mobile apps and websites. Customer service phone lines may or may not have English speakers; ask when you call. Smaller branches in outlying areas may have fewer English speakers. Bring a translator or ask a friend if language is a concern.

Take this guide with you

Get a free PDF of this guide to print or read offline: key facts, tips and a map link on a few clean pages.

Get the free PDF I want to receive the newsletter by email and agree that my email address is stored for this purpose. I can unsubscribe at any time.