How to Open a Gas Subscription with İGDAŞ in Istanbul (Foreigner’s Guide)

For foreigners moving to Istanbul, securing a natural gas subscription is one of the essential steps to settling into your new home. Beyond providing heating, hot water, and cooking facilities, having the subscription in your name is a legal requirement in Turkey.

Immigration and municipal offices often require official utility bills for address registration and residence permit applications. Without a valid bill in your name, you may face delays or even rejections during these processes.

This guide explains, step-by-step, how to open a natural gas account with İGDAŞ (the official gas distributor for Istanbul), the documents you’ll need, the application methods (in-person and online), payment details, and answers to common questions.

Required Documents

The documents you need depend slightly on whether you are the property owner or a tenant, but most requirements are the same.

For All Applicants (Owners and Tenants)

• Residence Permit Card (Ikamet) showing your Foreign ID Number (starting with 99) – proof of legal residence.
• Passport (or Blue Card, if applicable) for identity verification.
• Turkish Tax Identification Number – required if you do not yet have a residence permit card.
• Title Deed (Tapu) if you own the property, or a Notarized Rental Contract if you are renting.
• Previous Gas Bill or Subscriber/Installation Number to identify the meter and link the property in the system.
• Compulsory Earthquake Insurance (DASK) – policy document or number, mandatory for all residences.
• Completed Subscription Agreement Form – provided by İGDAŞ in person or electronically via e-Devlet.
• Power of Attorney – if someone will complete the process on your behalf.

Important Notes:

• The property address must be consistent across all documents.
• Any outstanding debts from the previous account holder must be cleared before a new subscription can be opened.
• For brand-new properties with no prior connection, you will need a Gas Compliance Certificate (Doğalgaz Uygunluk Belgesi) issued after an installation safety inspection.

Step-by-Step Application Process at İGDAŞ

1. Make an Appointment
You can visit your nearest İGDAŞ customer service center, call ALO 153, or book an appointment online through the İGDAŞ website. Service hours are Monday–Friday, 08:15–12:30 and 13:30–16:45.

2. Submit Your Documents and Sign the Contract
At your appointment, present all the required documents. The İGDAŞ representative will check for any unpaid bills linked to the property and verify your paperwork. You will then sign the subscription agreement. For new buildings, you will be advised on how to obtain the Gas Compliance Certificate from a certified engineer.

3. Pay the Fees
You will need to pay two main fees:

• Connection Fee
• Refundable Security Deposit

4. Schedule Activation
After signing the contract and paying the fees, İGDAŞ will arrange a technician visit to open your gas line. For properties with an existing meter, activation typically takes 2–4 business days. For new connections or long-disconnected properties, allow up to 1–2 weeks for inspections and certification.

5. On-Site Activation and Safety Check
On the scheduled date, you or an authorized representative must be present. The technician will confirm the meter details, check the internal installation for safety, and open the main gas valve. Once completed, your gas service will be ready to use immediately.

Online Application Options

Through e-Devlet

1. Get an e-Devlet password from any PTT branch by presenting your passport and residence permit.
2. Log in to turkiye.gov.tr and search for İGDAŞ subscription.
3. Select Individual Subscription Application and complete the online form with your details.
4. Submit the request. You may still be required to visit an İGDAŞ branch for document verification and payment.

Through the İGDAŞ Website
You can also start a preliminary application or book an appointment directly on the İGDAŞ site. Fill out the online form, then finalize your subscription in person.

Paying Your Gas Bills

Once your subscription is active, İGDAŞ will send monthly bills based on your meter readings. You can pay via:

• Authorized payment centers and PTT branches
• Bank ATMs, online banking, or mobile banking apps
• Automatic debit from your bank account or credit card
• The İGDAŞ website or mobile app (credit card payments)

⚠ Important: İGDAŞ never sends staff to collect payments in person. Anyone claiming to collect your bill at the door is a scammer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to get connected?
Usually 2–4 working days for existing meters; up to 1–2 weeks for new connections or where inspections are required.

2. Do I need a residence permit to apply?
Yes, in most cases you will need a valid residence permit with a Foreign ID Number. In some situations, a tax number and passport may be accepted, but not always.

3. Is earthquake insurance (DASK) mandatory?
Yes, a valid DASK policy is required to open or transfer any utility subscription.

4. What if there are unpaid bills from the previous occupant?
These must be paid before your subscription can be activated. Responsibility generally lies with the former account holder or property owner.

5. Can someone apply for me?
Yes, with a notarized power of attorney authorizing them to handle the subscription in your name.

6. Is natural gas available everywhere in Istanbul?
Almost all districts are covered by İGDAŞ’s network. In rare cases without mains gas, bottled LPG can be used temporarily.

7. How do I close my subscription?
Apply in person or online. İGDAŞ will arrange a final meter reading, settle any outstanding balance, and return your security deposit to your bank account.