More expats 'living in Turkey'

Monday December 10th , 2007

The number of foreign nationals now living in Turkey has increased significantly in recent years, according to a newspaper.

Today's Zaman stated that a decade ago, it would have been very difficult to find expatriates permanently residing the country.

However, the publication added that the situation had now changed and that a large number of people from overseas had now set up home in Turkey.

Istanbul was highlighted as one of the most popular places for foreign nationals, along with Kalkan and Alanya.

This was said to have had a positive impact on the country's economy and sectors that were directly affected, such as housing.

Today's Zaman said: "Anyone working in any of the industries linked to property purchase will have made rich pickings over the last five years."

According to official figures recently cited by the newspaper, more than 68,000 people from other countries now own a Turkish residence.