The essential setup sequence for newcomers arriving in Istanbul.
Action checklist
Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.
1Get a Turkish SIM at the airport (Turkcell or Vodafone)
2Register your foreign phone within 60 days to avoid SIM lock
3Open a bank account (Garanti BBVA or Ziraat recommended)
4Get an Istanbul Kart for metro and ferry travel
5Apply for a short-term residence permit if staying over 90 days
City context: Istanbul
These steps are tailored for newcomers in Istanbul. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.