According to the latest HSBC Expat Explorer report, Turkey ranked as the 7th best country in the world for international workers by the expats living in Turkey. The survey explores the opportunities offered by countries in terms of quality of life, work-life balance, financial return, and family life.
The biggest climber on the list this year, up 15 places from last year to 7th, Turkey ranked ahead of several key international markets including Germany (8th), UAE (9th), US (23rd) and UK (27th).
In the HSBC Expat Explorer guide it is stated that “straddling the continents of Asia and Europe, Turkey oozes expat appeal, particularly for business people looking to take advantage of its growing economy. The country is also an ideal retirement destination. And its culture lives up to the cliché ‘something for everyone’ with a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western traditions.”
High Quality of Life
A total of 62 percent of survey respondents living in Turkey said their life had improved compared to their country while 60 percent of people said they felt safer in Turkey than in their home country. 55 percent of expats also said they could afford a “fine home and car” in Turkey. And 69 percent of foreigners living in Turkey said they feel safe in Turkey and Turkish people are very friendly. Turkey scored highest in the “Living” category, ranking first for “cultural, open and welcoming communities” and “ease of settling in”. Expats also praised Turkey for its “sunny skies and low cost of living”.
Better Work-Life Balance
The majority of expats living in Turkey answered that they have a far better work-life balance in Turkey compared to in their home countries. More than half of the people who answered the survey said that they had more time for hobbies and family while in Turkey. 59 percent of foreigners living in Turkey said they are able to travel more while in Turkey, and 57 percent said they have more time to learn new skills like cooking, diving, and learning a new language.
Turkey’s Historical and Cultural Heritage Attracts Foreigners
The majority of the expats said they live in cities which have a rich historical and cultural heritage with landscapes. 63 percent of the interviewees live in central cities where they have various travel options. 59 percent stated that they live in cities with colorful cultural life. More than half of the foreigners living in Turkey praised the country for “delicious Turkish cuisine, warm weather, and friendly locals”.
“Turkey is a Good Choice for Expats”
Ayse Yenel, head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management, HSBC Turkey, said: “Many factors are important in the country preferences of employees who decide to work abroad. HSBC Expat Explorer survey reveals that Turkey is a good choice for foreign workers who want to grow in their careers with a high quality of life pursuit.”
Yenel also added that the decision to work in another country affects individuals in many areas, from career development to quality of life, from personal finance management to family life.
HSBC Expat Explorer survey was completed by 18,059 expats from 163 countries and territories through an online questionnaire, involving 27 questions, conducted by YouGov in February and March 2019.
If you are thinking about working and living in Turkey, check out Work Permits page.