🌍 How to Obtain a Potential Tax Identification Number (PTIN) for Foreigners?

The Potential Tax Identification Number (PTIN) is a temporary tax ID number issued to foreign nationals who are not taxpayers in Türkiye. This number enables foreigners to carry out various financial and legal transactions in Türkiye, such as opening a bank account, purchasing real estate, acquiring a vehicle, or conducting transactions at a notary.

The PTIN is a unique 10-digit number, personalized just like the Turkish Republic Identity Number for Turkish citizens. If the foreign individual later becomes a taxpayer in Türkiye, this "potential" number continues to be used as a permanent tax ID number.

📌 In short, the PTIN is the first official ID number that every foreigner who wants to invest, reside, or conduct financial transactions in Türkiye must obtain.

📋 Requirements for Obtaining a Potential Tax Identification Number

Applying for a PTIN is quite simple and usually completed with a small number of documents. Required documents:

• Original passport and a photocopy

• Address information in Türkiye

During the application, your identity information from the passport and your contact/address details will be requested. Applications can be made online either via the E-Government system or through the Revenue Administration’s Digital Tax Office portal.

💻 Online PTIN Application via the Digital Tax Office

The Revenue Administration offers online services for foreign nationals to obtain a PTIN via the Digital Tax Office. With a regulation implemented in 2020, it became possible to obtain the number without physically visiting the tax office.

⚠️ Tax offices now accept physical applications only in exceptional cases.

🧾 Application steps:

1) Visit the website:
Go to https://dijital.gib.gov.tr. From the main menu, navigate to “Verifications” → “Application for Potential Tax Identification Number for Foreigners”.

2) Fill out the form:
Enter the required information completely, such as first name, last name, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, passport number, mobile phone number, and address in Türkiye.

3) Upload the passport image:
Upload a clear photo of the page containing your identity information from your passport (.JPG or .PNG, maximum 1 MB).

4) Submit the application:
After verifying all information, click the “Apply” or “Submit” button at the bottom of the form.

5) Receive your tax identification number:
Once your application is approved, your personalized 10-digit PTIN will appear at the bottom of the screen. Note it down or take a screenshot and save it.

6) (Optional) Print the application result:
In some cases, the system generates a result page. You can print this page and use it in your transactions.

🧑‍💻 PTIN Application Steps via E-Government

You can also apply for a PTIN through the E-Government platform. This method is especially practical for individuals who have a residence permit in Türkiye and possess a foreign ID number starting with 99.

🧾 Steps:

1) Log into the E-Government system:
Go to turkiye.gov.tr and log in with your E-Government password and foreign ID number.

2) Search and select the service:
Type “Tax Identification Number” in the search bar on the homepage. From the listed results, select the “Tax Identification Number Verification – Revenue Administration” service.

3) Fill out the application form:
You will be directed to a special application screen for foreigners provided by the Revenue Administration. Review the necessary information, fill in any missing fields, and upload the passport image if required.

4) Complete the application:
After confirming the information, your PTIN will be displayed instantly. Note it down or print it.

🔄 This method is identical to the process on the Digital Tax Office. E-Government is simply a facilitating platform that eases access.

🏢 Obtaining a PTIN In-Person at the Tax Office

A physical application is only necessary when the online systems are not functioning or when verification errors occur. Nowadays, most processes are completed quickly over the internet. However, this method may still be valid for some foreigners.

🔍 Inquiring and Verifying a Potential Tax Identification Number

If you forget or want to verify your PTIN after obtaining it:

• Via the Digital Tax Office:
Go to the “Verifications” menu and access the “Potential Tax Identification Number Inquiry for Foreigners” service, where you can enter your passport details.

• Via E-Government:
Type “Tax Identification Number Verification” into the search section to access the relevant service. This screen will redirect you to the Digital Tax Office system.

✅ Conclusion

The Potential Tax Identification Number (PTIN) is a fundamental number that foreign nationals in Türkiye will need for banking, real estate, and official transactions.

Now, obtaining this number is much easier and faster:

✅ You can apply within minutes with an internet connection.
✅ Thanks to E-Government and the Digital Tax Office, the process is transparent and secure.
✅ Once you receive your PTIN, you can use this number in all legal transactions.

Remember, having a tax identification number is the first step to smoothly conducting your legal and financial operations in Türkiye. By completing this step, you can register in the Turkish tax system and carry out all your planned transactions securely.