Getting a Tax Identification Number
TERRA Real Estate is a leading agency in Turkey, providing its customers with professional pre and after-sales services. One of our services is issuing Turkish Tax Identification Numbers (Tax ID) for our clients.
What is a Tax Identification Number in Turkey?
The Tax Identification Number in Turkey (UTR number in the UK), also known as Vergi Numarası, is a ten-digit unique identifier required for all financial and legal activities of individuals and legal entities. The TIN is assigned once and remains unchanged, regardless of name changes or moving to a different region within Turkey.
Foreign nationals planning to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days, real estate buyers, property owners, or investors are required to obtain this number.
Why is the Tax ID Number Necessary?
The main reason why you will need a tax number in Turkey is to buy or invest in property. This tax number is required to buy or sell a house or commercial property and update the title deed (TAPU) in the new owner's name. You also need this tax number for other things such as opening a Turkish bank account, getting a new phone plan, setting up internet service at home, electricity and water subscriptions, residence permit fees, etc.
How to Get a Tax ID Number?
The procedure related to getting a Tax Number in Turkey is simple and quick. Foreign nationals can obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Turkey through two primary methods: in-person at a tax office or online. Here's how it works:
Visiting a Tax Office
- To get a TIN, you need to bring your original passport and a photocopy of it to the local tax office. You will be required to fill out a form with your personal information. This process usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
- The tax number is issued on the spot and is registered in the national databases immediately.
Online Registration
- To apply online, visit the official Turkish tax office website at http://ivd.gib.gov.tr/
- Find the section titled “Yabancılar İçin Potansiyel Vergi Kimlik Numarası” (Potential Tax Identification Number for Foreigners) and complete the electronic form. You will need to input your passport information, Turkish address, contact details, and information about your parents.
- Attach a scanned copy of your passport. Once you submit the form, the system generates a TIN in PDF format, which can be downloaded and printed.
TERRA real estate agents will gladly assist you in every step required to get your tax ID number in Turkey. We will help you get your Tax ID Number, find the right property, and handle everything else involved in buying or selling a property. If you want to learn about other services that TERRA Real Estate offers to its clients, visit our Services page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do I need to obtain a Turkish tax number?
A: To get a tax number in Turkey, you only need your identity document (a passport) and a copy of it.
Q: How can a foreigner get a tax ID in Turkey?
A: You can apply for a tax number at the local tax office, or you can do it online through their official website (ivd.gib.gov.tr).
Q: Why is the tax ID number necessary?
A: A tax ID number is your unique identifier for all kinds of registration processes in Turkey. You need this number for any buying and selling activities, as well as for other financial transactions:
- Buying property and getting the title deed (TAPU)
- Getting a residence permit
- Opening a bank account in Turkey
- Registering for utilities (gas, electricity, water, or internet)
- Paying taxes in Turkey
Q: Is getting a tax number in Turkey free of charge?
A: The whole process of getting a tax number in Turkey is free for both Turkish citizens and foreigners.
Q: Can I get a tax ID number myself?
A: Yes, you can get a tax number in Turkey by yourself. The process is simple and won't take much time. If you're buying property in Turkey with TERRA Real Estate, our agents will help you get it done quickly and smoothly.
Q: What to do if I lost my tax identification number?
A: If you lose your tax number, you can get a duplicate by going to your local tax office (Vergi Dairesi). You can also retrieve it online by submitting the necessary information on the tax service's website.
Q: Does my tax ID number expire?
A: The tax ID number issued in Turkey is valid for a lifetime and doesn't expire.
Q: Do I have to pay taxes in Turkey after getting a tax ID number?
A: Having and using an ITN in Turkey doesn't require foreigners to pay any extra taxes.
Q: Is Turkish tax number valid in other countries?
A: The tax number you get in Turkey is only valid within the country and can't be used internationally.