Banking & Money

Can foreign UnionPay cards be used for payments and cash withdrawals in Turkey?

The messages do not confirm whether Russian Agricultural Bank UnionPay cards currently work in Turkey; travelers are asking for an update. Do not rely on a single card: carry backup cash and test the card with a small payment or ATM withdrawal after arrival.

2 sources · 17 days ago

Where and how to exchange currency for Turkish lira in Turkey?

Exchange currency at any local exchange office (döviz) — rates are roughly the same everywhere, differences only matter for large amounts. Find nearby exchange points via Google Maps searching "exchange" or "döviz", and exchange small amounts as needed.

1 source · 21 days ago

Can foreign UnionPay bank cards be used at shops and restaurants in Turkey?

Recent traveler reports suggest UnionPay should not be your only payment method in Turkey: it was declined at Migros and McDonald’s in Nova Mall. There are also reports of Rosselkhozbank cards having issues after sanctions announced on July 24.

2 sources · 24 days ago

Can tourists open a bank account or exchange currency at banks in Turkey?

Most Turkish banks only exchange currency for existing account holders — tourists without a local account usually can't use bank exchange rates. Opening an account is difficult without Turkish/English skills, and new cards often require a large deposit or an opening fee.

1 source · 28 days ago

Is Letim payment app working in Turkey right now?

As of late June 2026, Letim has temporarily suspended ATM cash withdrawals, money transfers within Turkey, and new user registration due to regulatory requirements. Card payments continue to function normally.

2 sources · 50 days ago

Do Turkey exchange offices and shops accept old-design US dollar bills?

Old-design US dollar bills are problematic in Turkey. It's safer to bring euros or new-series dollars to avoid refusals.

2 sources · 54 days ago

Where to exchange dollars for Turkish lira in Turkey?

A convenient option is to pay in dollars at a Migros supermarket and receive change in Turkish lira, which is then more cost-effective for pharmacies and local minibuses. Hotel guides may also help with exchange.

1 source · 55 days ago

How much cash can you bring into Russia without declaring it at customs?

You can bring up to the equivalent of $10,000 USD into Russia without declaring it. Carrying more risks a significant fine.

2 sources · 62 days ago

Where to find ATMs to withdraw Turkish lira near hotels in Turkey?

ATMs are widely available near hotels, in shopping centers, and on main streets. Hotel services like massages typically accept Turkish lira or sometimes USD.

1 source · 15 days ago

How to pay in Turkey without Visa or Mastercard — cash, local bank cards, alternatives?

Travelers in Turkey typically rely on cash (Turkish lira) and may be able to open a Visa card at a Turkish bank as an alternative to foreign cards.

2 sources · 6 days ago