How to Get a Tax Number in Türkiye

The tax number, known in Turkish as "Vergi Kimlik Numarası", is a fundamental key that unlocks official transactions in Türkiye.

 Whether you're considering real estate investment, starting a business, or even just opening a bank account for daily use, this number is the first and most important step you need to take. 

This comprehensive guide explains what the tax number is, its importance, the required documents, and how to get one easily.

 What is the Tax Number?

The tax number is a unique 10-digit number issued by the Turkish Tax Office.

 It serves as your financial identity in the country and is used to track all your official transactions. For Turkish citizens, this number is the same as their national ID number (TC Numarası), but for foreigners, a separate tax number must be obtained.

 Don't worry, getting this number doesn't automatically mean you are liable to pay taxes; it's simply a tool for recording and documenting transactions.

 Why Do You Need a Tax Number? (Key Uses)

The tax number is more than just a document; it's an indispensable tool for completing a wide range of transactions in Türkiye. Here are its most important uses:

• Opening a Bank Account: You cannot open a bank account at any Turkish financial institution without this number.

• Real Estate Transactions: It's essential for buying and selling property and obtaining the title deed (Tapu).

• Residency Permit: The tax number has become a mandatory requirement for all residency permit applications.

• Public Services: You need it to subscribe to basic utility services like electricity, water, gas, and internet.

• Company Formation: If you plan to start a business, the tax number is the first step to registering your company.

• Driving and Vehicles: It's required to obtain a Turkish driver's license and for all vehicle purchase procedures.

• Insurance: It's used for issuing all types of insurance, whether health or property.

• Paying Taxes and Fees: It's used to pay all government taxes, such as property tax and residency renewal fees.

• Healthcare Services: It may be required in some private hospitals or for transactions related to health insurance.

• Lease Agreements and Notarization: Some landlords require it to formalize a lease agreement, and it's used in certain notarization processes.

• Paying Social Security: It's needed for all social security and insurance payments.

What Documents and Conditions Are Required?

The good news is that the process of getting a tax number is very simple and doesn't require many documents.

• Required Documents:

• A valid passport: This is the only essential document. You will need a copy of it.

• Proof of address (optional): In some cases, the officer might ask for proof of your residential address, such as a notarized lease agreement or a utility bill in your name.

• Conditions:

• There are no complex conditions. You can get a tax number even if you don't have an official residence permit in Türkiye.

• Your passport must be valid.

How to Get a Tax Number and Its Cost

You can get a tax number through two main methods, and both are completely free of charge.

• Method 1: From the Tax Office Directly

• Go to the nearest Tax Office (Vergi Dairesi) in the city where you are staying.

• Bring your passport with you.

• Ask the officer to issue a "Vergi Kimlik Numarası" for you.

• The officer will enter your details into the system, and within a few minutes, you will receive a printed paper with your tax number.

• Method 2: Online

• This is the fastest and easiest method.

• Visit the official website of the Turkish Tax Administration: https://ivd.gib.gov.tr/.

• Select the service "Yabancılar İçin Potansiyel Vergi Kimlik Numarası" (Potential Tax Identification Number for Foreigners).

• Fill in the required information: your name, father's name, date of birth, passport number, and its expiry date.

• After clicking "confirm," your tax number will appear on the screen immediately. You can print it or save it.

In conclusion, obtaining a tax number in Türkiye is a very simple and quick process, and it's essential for anyone who wants to live or invest in the country.