Managing Utility Subscriptions for Foreigners in Turkey in 2026

Essential Prerequisites for Utility Subscriptions

Setting up utility subscriptions in Turkey is easy if you have the right papers. In 2026, most providers need to see your residence permit or work permit. You usually can't open an account with just a tourist visa. But some private internet companies might let you.

Get your Foreign Identity Number ready before you go to any office. It starts with 99. You also need a DASK policy. This is mandatory earthquake insurance for all homes in Turkey. You must have it to start any service.

How to Start Utility Subscriptions for Electricity

Private regional companies manage electricity. In Istanbul, you'll likely use CK Boğaziçi or EnerjiSA. You can apply at their offices or on their websites.

Documents Needed for Electricity

• Notarized lease or property deed (Tapu).
• Residence permit or work permit.
• DASK policy number.
• The installation number from a bill or the meter.
• A security deposit payment.

A technician usually comes within 1 to 3 days to connect the power. Make sure your main breaker is off for safety. And don't forget to keep your receipt for the deposit.

Setting Up Natural Gas (Doğalgaz)

You'll use natural gas for heating and hot water. İGDAŞ is the only provider in Istanbul. You usually have to visit their office for your first contract. But you can handle renewals on e-Devlet later.

Documents Needed for Natural Gas

• Residence permit and Foreign Identity Number.
• Property deed or notarized rental contract.
• The Consumption Point Number.
• DASK insurance details.

İGDAŞ will send someone to check your pipes after you sign. They look for leaks and check your vents. Don't block the holes in your kitchen wall. If you do, you'll fail the check and have to start over.

Connecting Water Services (Su)

Local cities manage the water. In Istanbul, that's İSKİ. In Ankara, it's ASKİ. These offices get very busy. So, try to get there early in the morning.

Documents Needed for Water

• Residence permit.
• Copy of the rental agreement or Tapu.
• DASK policy.
• The meter serial number.
• Security deposit payment.

The city usually turns the water on within 48 hours. The deposit for water is often cheaper than gas or power.

Internet and Home Phone Services

Turkey has great fiber-optic and DSL options. Big names include Türk Telekom and Turkcell. Most contracts last one or two years. If you leave early, you'll pay a big fee. So, check the terms first.

You'll need your permit and a proof of address. You can get this paper from the e-Devlet portal. Some companies now offer deals for expats without long contracts. These cost more each month but give you more freedom.

Using e-Devlet for Utility Management

The e-Devlet portal is the best way to handle your accounts in 2026. Get your password from a PTT office once you have your permit. You can see bills and even stop services there. It saves you from waiting in long lines at physical offices.

Paying Your Utility Bills in Turkey

Paying bills is simple. You have a few choices:

• Mobile Banking: Most Turkish banks let you pay through their apps. You can set up automatic payments so you never miss a date.
• PTT Offices: You can pay with cash at any post office.
• Payment Centers: Look for shops that say "Fatura Ödeme Merkezi." They charge a tiny fee to process your bill.

Canceling Utility Subscriptions When Moving Out

Don't forget to cancel your utility subscriptions when you move out. This stops the bills and gets your deposit back. You can do this online or in person. The company reads the meter one last time and takes the final cost from your deposit. Then, they send the rest to your bank account or via PTT.

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