Short-term rentals in Turkey after the 2024 law: licence, neighbours’ consent and fines

A few years ago, many owners rented their apartments in Trabzon and Istanbul to tourists through platforms without any formalities. Since the start of 2024 that has changed fundamentally. The question we hear today is: “Is holiday renting still possible?” Yes, but with a licence and conditions you need to know before you buy, not after.

What does the law cover?

Law No. 7464 regulates “renting homes for tourism purposes”, meaning renting an apartment or house to the same person for no more than 100 days, as with holiday lets. This type of rental now requires a licence from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The main conditions

1. The licence

The owner applies for a licence for the unit and receives a licence number and certificate. Holiday renting without it is an offence.

2. Consent of all owners

If the apartment is in a building or complex under kat mülkiyeti (condominium ownership), the licence can only be issued with the consent of all the other unit owners. In practice, this is the condition that blocks licences in many residential buildings.

3. The plate at the entrance

A sign showing the licence and its number is displayed at the entrance of the unit or building, and the number is given in listings.

4. Guest registration

Guests’ identities are reported under the identity notification system that applies to accommodation.

5. Taxes

Income from holiday renting is taxable and may bring additional obligations. Work with an accountant and read the 2026 rental tax guide.

Platforms and fines

Booking platforms are now required to list licensed units only, and fines for renting without a licence are calculated per unit. Repeat offences increase the penalty.

What does this mean if you are buying to invest?

1. Don’t buy in an ordinary residential building with holiday renting in mind unless you have confirmed that a licence is possible, i.e. that the owners agree.
2. Prefer units designed for it: serviced apartments or rental-managed projects with a clear legal status.
3. Compare with long-term renting: in many cases, an annual let to a family or a student gives a more stable return with less effort. See the long-term rental guide.
4. Calculate the real yield after expenses, taxes and occupancy, as in the Trabzon rental yield guide.

What about your own use?

Living in your apartment with your family or hosting relatives free of charge is not holiday renting. The law concerns renting for payment.

Summary

Holiday renting in Turkey is still possible, but it has become a licensed activity: a licence from the ministry, the consent of all owners in the building, a displayed number and guest registration. If that is your goal, choose the property with it in mind from the start.

We help our clients assess whether a licence is possible before buying, and recommend units suited to renting. Browse serviced apartments and projects or contact us.