When I came to Turkey for the first time to study, the only thing I thought about was drinking tea at a discount with a student card. But then when they were opening a bank account, they asked, “Do you have an income declaration?” That’s when I stopped. Income declaration? I’m just a student… right?
What is an income declaration and why is it important?
What it means for international students
In Turkey, this means reporting your earnings (if any) for a calendar year to the authorities. This can include a variety of sources, not just salary from work, but also scholarships, sponsorships, freelance work or crypto income.
For international students, this process is particularly important for residency permit renewal, bank account opening and some scholarship assessments. So, even if you do not have a direct obligation to pay tax, you may be asked to declare income.
Why those who study in Turkey may have to declare their income?
Some universities and immigration authorities ask students to document how they “cover their living expenses in Turkey”. This usually requires a declaration of income form. Universities such as Süleyman Demirel University offer forms specifically designed for students.
Tax Deductions and Supports for Education Expenses in Turkey
How tax exemptions for students work?
There are various tax benefits for international students in Turkey. In particular, students living on scholarships or family support are not subject to any income tax. In some cases, tax deductions can even be requested for tuition fees at private universities.
If you have a part-time job in Turkey, your employer withholds tax on your behalf and your income declaration is processed through this system. However, if you are self-employed (for example on platforms such as YouTube or Upwork), you must self-report your income.
Are family support, scholarships and sponsorships included in the declaration?
Yes, if the immigration office or the university requires a declaration of income, these supports may need to be documented. For example, money transfers from your family or a scholarship for 1 year (e.g. 200 USD per month x 12 = 2400 USD) are shown in the total income declaration.
Should International Students Declare Income in Turkey?
If you are actively earning income in Turkey, for example if you work in a restaurant, a market or a freelance job, then yes, you have to declare your income.
But if you only receive scholarships or financial support from your family, you are generally not legally required to declare, although some institutions may still request this information.
Is there a difference between a scholarship and a freelance job?
Certainly. A student receiving a government scholarship (e.g. under the Turkey Scholarships) is exempt from this responsibility. However, if you are someone who produces YouTube content, earns money through social media or provides digital services, this income must be declared. Already in Turkey, tax authorities have started to keep a closer eye on the digital income of foreign students in recent years.
For more details on this topic, be sure to check our article Education and living costs in Turkey.
How to Declare Income? Step by Step Guide
E-Government process
If you have an income in Turkey and need to declare it, the easiest way is to use the e-Devlet system. After logging into the system, you can complete the income declaration process by following these steps:
How to Make Income Declaration via E-Government?
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Log in to e-Government (https://turkiye.gov.en) |
| 2 | Type “Income Tax Declaration” in the search bar |
| 3 | Select the GIB (Revenue Administration) link |
| 4 | In the system If the “Ready Declaration System” opens, click on it |
| 5 | Enter your earnings and source of income correctly |
| 6 | Check your documents (work permit, bank receipt, etc.Upload |
| 7 | Confirm declaration and save PDF printout |
This process can usually be completed in 15-20 minutes. When in doubt, it is best to contact the student affairs department of the university.
What Awaits Students Who Don’t Declare Income
Fines and residence permit risk
There can be serious sanctions for foreign students studying in Turkey if they are found to be earning income and not reporting it, even if in some cases it is only for information purposes.
Future effects of not declaring
The student period may be temporary, but this obligation can leave permanent scars. For someone who wants to continue to stay in Turkey, apply for citizenship or obtain a work permit, incomplete declaration may be an obstacle in the future.
Take Action Now: Secure Your Future!
Skipping this process as part of being a student in Turkey
You’ve come to Turkey, started a new life, overcome the language barrier… But if you’re ignoring technical things like income declaration, things can get difficult.
Now you know how to do it through the e-Government system, and you know where you can access special forms from universities. Whether you’re freelancing or just receiving a stipend, income declaration is your tool to stay safe.