Why do Russian-speaking pensioners choose Turkey to live in?

Pensioners in Turkey: a new home to live in

Recently, there has been an increase in the number of retirees choosing Turkey as a new place of residence. This choice is due to a number of attractive factors that are simply impossible not to dream about. A pleasant climate that pleases all year round, an abundance of delicious local fruits and vegetables, as well as low prices make this country especially attractive for life. That is why Turkey has become a favorite destination for many foreign citizens, including the Russian-speaking population, who prefer to spend their days here.

Immigration process

The process of immigration to Turkey is quite accessible, and many thousands of Russians have already decided to take this step, radically changing their lives by moving to this sunny country. For those who are just starting down this path, opportunities to communicate with their relatives open up, as it is quite easy to meet compatriots in popular resorts such as Alanya.

• At these resorts you can meet quite a few Russian-speaking families.
• Russian mothers with children and pensioners communicate in their native language.
• The resorts offer comfortable living and recreational facilities.

Language barrier

Despite the fact that many languages are spoken in Turkey, there is virtually no language barrier. Staff in banks, pharmacies and medical centers can often speak Russian, which greatly simplifies the adaptation process for new residents.

Russian-speaking population

As for the number of Russian-speaking people, the data on this category vary greatly. According to official information from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there may be between 100,000 and 200,000 natives of our country living in Turkey. However, many experts believe that these figures are underestimated. Taking into account the number of people from other countries who speak Russian, the total number of Russian-speakers can range from 300 to 500 thousand, and in some estimates it reaches a million.

Interestingly, Svetlana, one of those who moved, noted that there are significantly more Russian speakers in Mahmutlar than locals.

Diversity among immigrants

There are many retirees among the new residents of Turkey. Among them you can see both elderly couples, grandmothers with grandchildren, and multi-generational family groups. Single pensioners are also found in this rural area, and it is not uncommon for young Russian pensioners to find their other half here.

The rationale for choosing these people lies in a variety of reasons:

• the desire to preserve Russian traditions;
• The desire to create a cozy home away from home.

Hobbies of retirees

Many retirees who have chosen to live in Turkey have various hobbies, such as fishing, which gives them the opportunity to spend time with their grandchildren. Many of them feel comfortable in this new country all year round.

Although in the hottest months, July and August, they sometimes go to their homeland. This way they can enjoy a more temperate climate and spend time at their favorite dachas picking mushrooms and berries.

Buying real estate

Immigration to Turkey is simplified thanks to the popular procedure of obtaining a residence permit through the purchase of real estate. To do this, it is enough to purchase any housing and register in it. In the resorts you can find affordable housing options at a price of approx.€35 thousandand new construction starts at€50 thousandThis makes them quite affordable for most retirees wishing to start a new life in this beautiful country.

The process of citizenship through investment

The process of citizenship through real estate investment can take only a few months. If you have the necessary financial resources, the path to citizenship status begins if you invest in real estate from 250 thousand dollars. Thus, it is possible to become a citizen of the country in as little as 3-6 months without having to give up your original passport.

Real estate in Turkey

Today on the real estate market in Turkey there are many attractive objects. For example, in Istanbul it is possible to buy an apartment of 65 m2 at a price of 162,390 euros. This property offers the possibility of residence permit registration through online showings and remote transactions, with available payment in rubles and cryptocurrency. Also available is a special offer: a 1+1 apartment for the same area, priced at 180,000 euros, available for cash payment only.

The Happiness Project

It should be noted the project “Happiness” is a luxury residential complex, oriented to families who prefer a quiet lifestyle, being close to the hustle and bustle of the city. Prices for apartments vary depending on the storey, views from the windows and other parameters.

Penthouse in Alanya

Pay attention to the penthouse in Alanya - area of 180 m2 for 275 000 euros. This property includes three rooms and four bathrooms, as well as the possibility of obtaining a residence permit upon purchase. The penthouse is located in the Oba neighborhood, which is popular among tourists and locals, and offers extensive green areas, close to the city infrastructure. There are supermarkets and shopping centers in the area, making it an even more attractive place to live.

Affordable apartments in Alanya

Don't forget about this apartment in Alanya for 81,000 euros. This offer includes a 1+1 layout and is located just 300 meters from the beach and close to all necessary amenities. The complex is built by one of the best developers in the region and consists of two blocks.

• An apartment for 102,500 euros:fully ready to move in, with magnificent sea view, modern residential complex, 12-storey building, all amenities for a comfortable stay.
• Duplex in Avsallar for 104 000 euros:live in an ecologically clean neighborhood, near Inzekum beach, which is among the hundred best beaches in the world.

Advantages of investments

Each of the properties on offer offers the possibility of obtaining a visa or citizenship through an investment in Turkish real estate, making them particularly attractive to foreigners seeking to find their corner of the country.

Housing opportunities on the east coast of Turkey

The east coast of Turkey is a great place to live and invest, offering a variety of housing options. One of the most interesting properties is an apartment in Gazipasa, priced at €71,500. This 60sqm 1+1 apartment is located in the newest residential complex, which started construction in September 2022 and will be completed in May 2025. Gazipasa, located just five kilometers from the airport and forty kilometers from the center of Alanya, is famous for its developed infrastructure and proximity to picturesque beaches.

Luxury penthouse in Alanya

We also have a chic penthouse in Alanya in our catalog for 195,500 €. This 56 m² property includes two cozy bedrooms and a modern layout. We have used all our experience in construction to create the perfect space for comfortable living. The complex is located in the center of Oba district, just 1.3 km from the sea, and covers more than 19,400 m² with all the necessary amenities.

New penthouse for 99 000 €

Another attractive offer is a penthouse for 99 000 €, located in Alanya. This new project is located in the Oba neighborhood and consists of three blocks, each of which has four floors. There are various housing options within the complex:

• 2
• 2+1
• 3+1

The apartments range in size from 60 m² to 170 m². The planned completion of construction is in the fall of 2023. The complex will be distinguished by cozy architecture and comfortable infrastructure for living.

Apartment 1+1 in Alanya

Also in our arsenal we have a 1+1 apartment in Alanya for 102 500 €. This modern dwelling is offered in a hotel type residential complex and will be delivered with quality finishes and kitchen set. The convenient location provides access to all necessary services and the sandy beach, which is within walking distance.

Apartment with panoramic view

For those who appreciate beautiful views, we offer an apartment for 153 000 €. This bright apartment is located on the 9th floor and offers panoramic sea and mountain views. It is fully equipped with everything you need:bathroom,kitchen setandair conditioners. You will be able to choose your own furniture and arrange the space according to your taste. The complex offers a developed hotel infrastructure that will satisfy even the most demanding requirements.

Unique penthouse in Alanya

Finally, for fans of unique solutions, there is a penthouse in Alanya for 120,000 €. This modern project in the prestigious Oba neighborhood covers an area of 3,880 m² and comprises two blocks with 32 apartments of different layouts. You can choose from the standard options:

• 2
• Apartments with private pool
• Combining multiple objects

By investing in real estate in this neighborhood, you are taking an important step toward quality living and long-term investment.

In Turkey, in the delightful city of Alanya, an apartment for sale for 150,000 €, with a total area of 95 square meters. This two-bedroom apartment is located in the famous residential complex Uygun Cleopatra 3 and is fully ready for occupancy. There is a unique opportunity to obtain a residence permit with the purchase of this property.

The complex is just 500 meters from the picturesque sandy Cleopatra Beach and offers its residents many amenities including:

• three swimming pools;
• parking spaces;
• modern gym
• sauna;
• billiard room;
• 24-hour security.

Apartment in the Tosmur area

Another wonderful apartment in Alanya is available for sale at a price of 115 000 € with an area of 100 m². This property offers a 2+1 layout and is located in the Tosmur neighborhood. The apartment is located on the second floor of a nine-storey building and has south and north facing windows for excellent views.

The interiors of the apartment are spacious and bright; there are two bathrooms, one of which is equipped with a shower cabin, while the other has a Jacuzzi. There are also two spacious balconies, and the distance to the sea is only 700 meters.

An apartment in the Jikgilli neighborhood

A 1+1 apartment in Jikgilli area is available for sale for 145 000 €. The property has an area of 70 m² and is located in the Crystal Park complex. The apartment is located on the eighth floor and offers a beautiful view to the sea and the ancient fortress of Alanya.

The spacious floor plan includes:

• one bedroom;
• the living room with the kitchen area;
• combined bathroom;
• balcony.

This makes this accommodation an ideal choice for comfortable living.

Penthouse in Alanya

A magnificent penthouse in Alanya is for sale for 179,000 € and covers an area of 110 m². This 2+1 duplex is located in a new building completed in 2023. The complex is located in Mahmutlar area, just 500 meters from the city's landscaped beaches.

It presents two residential units on a secure estate and nearby are:

• stores;
• supermarkets;
• markets;
• cafeteria.

This creates a high level of convenience for residents.

Possibility of buying an apartment in Istanbul

If you are interested in buying an apartment in Istanbul, it is worth paying attention to the object for 144,346 €, which has an area of 75 m². This project offers attractive investment conditions, including the possibility to obtain citizenship through purchase.

The apartment is located in the European part of the city, in the Küçükçekmece district, and consists of two seven-storey blocks with 394 apartments. The construction is scheduled to be completed in December 2025, and an interest-free installment plan of up to 36 months is available for buyers.

Among the advantages of this residential complex are :

• promising location;
• bargain price;
• high liquidity.

Attractive project in Gekturk district

In addition, a nice project with 108 m² apartments is offered in the prestigious neighborhood of Gekturk at a price of 532,278 €. This complex has also become available for citizenship and offers possibilities for remote transaction as well as payment in rubles or cryptocurrency.

The project territory with a total area of 26,000 square meters provides all the necessary amenities for comfortable living.

In general, the project offers a wide range of residential properties, including apartments of different layouts: 2+1, 3+1, duplexes 3+1, 4+1, duplexes 4+1, duplexes 4,5+1, duplexes 5+1, as well as luxury villas. The main goal of this project is to create an ideal living space for families, where aesthetics and convenience are combined with modern services.

Examples of apartments

For example, by spending230,052 eurosYou will be able to own an apartment in Istanbul with an area of 64 square meters, consisting of 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. All transactions are available remotely, and the ability to pay both in rubles and cryptocurrency makes the process much easier. Such properties are also ideal for renting out, which makes them attractive for investors.

Unique complex

In the European part of Istanbul, near the heart of the city, there is a unique complex consisting of four buildings named after world capitals: London, Tokyo, Paris and Milan. This project includes more than 400 residential units and commercial spaces, with a total land area of 27,603 square meters and a total project area of 42,500 square meters. The complex will be ready for occupancy in the near future, making it an interesting option for those looking for a new home.

Apartments in Büyükçekmece

The following project offers unusual apartments in the Büyükçekmece neighborhood, which is considered to be one of the most promising and modern neighborhoods in Istanbul. This neighborhood consists of 39 districts, each of which has its own municipality. Now the opportunity to own an apartment in this beautiful neighborhood is available to you.

Other options

The other option offered for132,402 eurosis an apartment of 76 square meters with two bedrooms and a bathroom. This innovative project is located in the European part of the city, offers a limited number of apartments and more than 80% green areas, providing excellent living conditions. It offers picturesque views of the lakes and infrastructure, while the developed transportation network and proximity to the airport make this project particularly convenient.

Construction and accessibility

At the moment, the project is under construction, and you have the opportunity to visit the place to appreciate all the benefits in person. If you do not like the noisy rhythm of city life, you can choose quieter neighborhoods to live in.

Immigration to Turkey

There are a variety of options when it comes to immigration to Turkey:

• starting your own business;
• moving in with family;
• looking for a new job.

You can find all the options available in the section on immigration. To keep up to date with the latest news regarding investments, immigration and foreign real estate, you can sign up for information updates.

How do I find a place to live?

How to find suitable housing? Most retirees choose well-known resorts in Turkey, such as Antalya and Alanya, where you can find both apartments in large residential complexes and secluded options surrounded by the necessary infrastructure. Which option is more suitable for you - it depends on your personal preferences. Often the choice in favor of a certain area is made spontaneously, based on personal tourist impressions.

Svetlana's impressions of Tosmur

Svetlana, who lives in the Tosmur neighborhood, shared her thoughts on living here: “When I first came here, I wondered why this area was so popular. I used to like busier places like Cleopatra Beach, with its abundance of restaurants, cafes and small stores. However, after spending some time in Tosmoor, I realized what a great atmosphere and convenience this place has.

General level of medicine in Turkey

The medical system in Turkey is generally highly regarded, although it is worth considering that serious operations may require a considerable amount of money. Foreigners wishing to receive medical services in this country are recommended to take out medical insurance, which may also become a necessity for obtaining a residence permit. However, for pensioners, this requirement is advisory, although professionals strongly urge to have health insurance.

The cost of health insurance

Private health insurance is quite common in Turkey, and its cost varies from 500 to 1000 liras per year, which translates to about $50-100 in US dollars. It is important to note that for seniors over 65 years of age, it can be difficult to obtain such policies. For foreigners who have lived in Turkey for more than a year, the option of state medical insurance SGK is available, but its cost is much higher - about 1000 liras each month.

Affordable health care services for seniors

However, some services, such as emergency hospitalization and basic health care at health clinics, are available to senior citizens even without health insurance. Such services include:

• Medical examinations
• General tests
• Vaccination

It is advisable to undergo more complex medical procedures with the help of insurance, but it often covers only part of the costs. Consequently, many pensioners faced with the need for serious medical treatment prefer to return home to Russia.

Quality of health care in Turkey

Ksenia Balji, Executive Director of Liga Real Estate, notes that the level of medicine in Turkey is quite high, but the methods of treatment here may differ from those familiar to Russians. Medical institutions have modern equipment, and the environment in hospitals often resembles luxurious five-star hotels, where there is always perfect cleanliness and sterility. Appointments to specialists can be made via the Internet with a choice of languages, including Russian.

Features of medical diagnoses

However, it should be kept in mind that in Turkey, diagnoses such as“vegeto-vascular dystonia.”or“increased tone”All rooms offer ultrasound examinations, which allows for quicker diagnosis of a patient's condition. Ultrasound examinations are performed in all rooms, which allows for a quick review of the patient's condition, whereas MRIs or X-rays may require a physician's referral, which can sometimes be time-consuming.

In general, survey flows are organized more efficiently than in Russia.

Medical tourism in Turkey

Speaking of medical tourism, it is worth noting that Turkish citizens are less likely to seek treatment abroad, while foreigners are increasingly choosing local clinics for diagnostics and surgeries. An example is Xenia's acquaintance who faced a diagnosis of cancer and immediately underwent surgery in Turkey. After completing the treatment, she decided to send the documents to an Israeli clinic, where she was told that similar services could be provided in Turkey. Enough time has passed since then and her health has only gotten better.

Nutrition for pensioners in Turkey

As far as nutrition is concerned, pensioners in Turkey have a great opportunity to enjoy not only tasty but also healthy food. The range of fresh fruit, fish, nuts, honey and olive oil is in most cases more affordable compared to prices in Russia, which allows seniors to follow a healthier and more varied diet.

Turkey's unique dairy products

In addition to a rich culture, Turkey also highlights unique dairy products, which include a variety of cheeses and yogurts. These products are actively used in cooking and are the basis of many dishes. Anna, who moved from Moscow, shares her observations: “After comparing the products I am used to with Turkish products, I realized that we have unwittingly lost the authentic taste of natural milk, butter, cream and cheese. Turkish dairy products are really impressive, and these are not just words. I asked the locals about the secret of their flavor and they told me that they have a lot of cows and goats!”

Culinary traditions and appetizers

Turks, who are passionate about cooking, prefer to create festive tables of fresh vegetables, different appetizers, which are called meze, and meat. Turkish kebabs, kebabs and pilafs are famous not only among locals but also far beyond the country's borders. Among the traditional bakery products can be seen such as:

• pita
• simit (similar to sesame bagels)
• biryok
• gözleme flatbread

In general, the people of the country favor tea and coffee, and are also proud of their sweets, including baklava, loukoum, halva and other desserts that give a delightful sweet taste.

Availability of Russian products

For those who are nostalgic for Russian cuisine, buckwheat and other familiar cereals, potatoes and quite a few other products are also available in Turkey. These products can be easily found both in regular supermarkets and in numerous Russian stores, especially in tourist cities such as Antalya and Alanya. These stores offer products all familiar to Russians, including:

• dumplings
• dumplings
• dick
• dried fish
• herring
• other delicacies

Istiklal Street and culinary traditions

Istanbul's Istiklal Street is one of the city's busiest pedestrian zones and is home to many restaurants and cafes. In Islamic tradition, there is a clear understanding of the division of foods into permitted and forbidden, and pork is one of the latter. Nevertheless, this does not mean that it is impossible to try pork in Turkey. Although it is not widely available, it can be purchased without much difficulty in large supermarkets, especially in tourist areas.

Some other types of meat, such as bear meat or turtle meat, are also on the banned list. However, for foreign travelers or residents, these restrictions tend to go unnoticed.

Leisure activities for pensioners in Turkey

As for leisure, for retirees from Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, who may not speak Turkish or English, there are many options for active pastime in Turkey. Surrounded by the Russian-speaking population, it is easy to find like-minded people, and the stunning nature and friendly atmosphere encourage walking, learning and various creative activities.

Xenia Balji, executive director of Liga Real Estate, emphasizes that retirees have a variety of leisure activities available to them. “I know people who go trekking, hike to local attractions, attend educational lectures and learn decorative crafts,” she adds, highlighting the variety of activities available. Thus, life in Turkey opens up new horizons and offers the opportunity to find plenty of exciting things to do.

Studying the Turkish language

Learning Turkish is becoming popular among foreigners. Although their communication skills are still far from the level of native speakers, they can already communicate without difficulty in places such as stores and pharmacies.

Going to the market

One of the favorite pastimes among them is going to the market together. People buy wheeled suitcases and go shopping, after which they often gather in the kitchen to cook together. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the largest covered markets around the world, covering an impressive 30,700 square meters and located in the historic part of the city.

Pensioners: locals and visitors

If we compare the retirees of the local population with those of the newcomers, we can see that the latter have a special affinity for the seashore. For Turks, the sea is a natural part of everyday life, while for people who have moved from less environmentally friendly regions, such a place acquires a special value.

Walks along the shore and along the sea become real joys of life for them. You can often see grandmothers walking to the ocean, while grandchildren prefer to spend time in the swimming pool.

Lifestyle of retirees

Older people in our culture have different leisure activities than their Turkish counterparts. For example, my mother-in-law, who was born in Turkey, prefers to stay at home, do housework and cook. Her hobbies include making jams, baking and preparing vegetables for the winter. While my father-in-law surrounds himself with friends and socializes with them.

In Turkey, there are special locations where men gather for a game ofokayor inbackgammonwhile enjoying a cup of tea.

Pensioners from our region

Pensioners from our region prefer to gather in large groups. They like to go for walks, visit each other and organize picnics in nature. Many residential complexes have convenient gazebos for such events, which allows you to enjoy the fresh air in good company. The beautiful promenade in Mahmutlar, near Alanya, is an ideal place for strolling.

Work and part-time jobs

Numerous elderly people are considering moving to Turkey, not excluding the option of finding a part-time job in the new place. But with this task they come across many difficulties. On social media, one can see many job advertisements, such as:

• Caregivers for children
• Homework helpers

Employment opportunities depend on professional qualifications, but such jobs usually offer a modest income. Formal employment for a retired foreigner is an unattainable goal, as the labor force in Turkey consists mainly of young people.

The financial side of living in Turkey

But how much money is required for comfortable living in Turkey? To understand the reality of life in this country, it is worth taking a close look at the conditions in which local pensioners live. Previously, it was possible to retire after reaching the age of 45, but now this age has increased to 60 years. It is also necessary that the labor experience should be at least 25 years. Those people who have not properly formalized their employment status remain without a pension.

Minimum pension

It should be noted that many pensioners express the opinion that it is difficult to survive on the minimum pension in Turkey. This amount is approximatelythree thousand lireThis adds further reflection on how best to organize one's life after moving, which is a hot topic for immigrants.

Conclusion

Concluding this study, I would like to emphasize that the life path of many people, especially retirees, becomes not only more comfortable, but also filled with new colors, thanks to the possibility of emigration to countries such as Turkey. This country with its warm climate, affordable real estate and rich community of Russian-speaking people offers unique opportunities to create a new home.

Climatic conditions and the presence of close surroundings allow many retirees to feel safe and cozy, despite the distance from their homeland. As we can see, information about the number of Russian-speaking residents in Turkey varies, but one thing is undeniable: this country is home to a significant number of people who speak Russian. Such a choice of residence not only facilitates the integration process, but also creates comfortable conditions for communication.

The friendly locals, who often speak Russian, add another point that contributes to an enjoyable time in Turkey. For those looking for a more active lifestyle, countries with opportunities such as fishing and a variety of cultural activities will certainly appeal.

The benefits of living in Turkey:

• Warm climate all year round.
• Presence of a Russian-speaking community.
• Affordable housing and citizenship opportunities.
• Active cozy lifestyle with opportunities for fishing and cultural activities.

For many elderly people, the option of buying real estate in Turkey has become a real boon. It is not only a way to provide a comfortable place to live, but also an opportunity to obtain citizenship, which in turn opens up new horizons for traveling and enjoying life in another country.

Turkey offers a variety of opportunities for anyone who decides to take a step towards a new life and I, as the author of this article, sincerely hope that this information will be useful and inspiring for all readers. Change can be scary, but it can also bring incredible prospects. If you are considering a move, perhaps Turkey is the place where your dream of a comfortable, fulfilling life by the sea will come true.