Rising Costs and Residency Limits Drive Sharp Decline in Russian Population in Turkey
Putin & Erdoğan
The number of Russian citizens living in Turkey has nearly halved in just two years, falling from 154,000 in 2023 to 85,000 in 2025, according to figures from the Russian Embassy in Ankara. The sharp drop comes after a post-Ukraine war influx, with 69,000 Russians leaving Turkey in 2024 alone.
Economic Pressures
Pro-Kremlin daily Izvestia reports that many Russians cite high inflation and soaring living costs as the primary reasons for leaving. Official data from TurkStat puts annual inflation near 33%, while Central Bank figures show housing prices rising over 30% in the past year. Cities such as Istanbul and Antalya are now more expensive than many European capitals.
While some Russians have returned home, others have relocated to more affordable destinations like Serbia and Montenegro.
Residency and Property Restrictions
Beyond economic concerns, stricter residency permit renewals and regional property ownership restrictions have accelerated the outflow. Istanbul resident Irina Nepluyeva told Izvestia that her renewal was denied despite owning property — a situation mirrored by many Russians in Antalya and Alanya.
In August 2024, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that tourist residence permits would no longer be issued, a move seen as a major turning point for thousands planning long-term stays.
Demographic Shifts
The decline is altering the demographic makeup of cities where Russians have been concentrated. Experts warn the trend will have both economic and social impacts, particularly in Istanbul, Antalya, and Alanya.
