Why Are Turks Living in the U.S. Returning to Turkey?

Some Turks who settled in ABD hoping for education, career, and a better life are turning back to Türkiye after years. But why? We examined research and official data. The results show that the decision to return cannot be explained solely by money and the cost of living; longing for family, belonging, culture, and the future of children also play significant roles.

Moving to America is a new beginning for many people. However, studying, building a career, and establishing an economic order in ABD does not mean staying in America for life for everyone.

An academic study on skilled Turkish immigrants returning to Türkiye sheds light on the reasons behind the decision. The study conducted in-depth interviews with a total of 80 people, 40 from ABD and 40 from Germany.

The resulting picture, however, differs from what one might first imagine.

Money Is Not First

When one thinks of a return from ABD to Türkiye, high rent, healthcare costs, and rising living expenses come to mind first. Yet the study shows that, for Turks returning from ABD, family, cultural, and emotional reasons stand out strongly.

The desire to stay close to family, longing for Turkey, and cultural ties can play an important role in the decision to return.

In short, establishing an economic system in America may not be enough for everyone to stay there.

The question 'Where do I belong?' is coming to the fore.

Living in the U.S. for years does not completely erase the bond formed with Turkey.

Because of family ties, friendships, language, food culture, and daily life habits, some migrants still feel closer to Turkey.

Thus, the decision to return can shift from the question 'Where can I earn more?' to 'Where do I want to continue my life?'

Children Can Alter Their Decision to Return

Having children can also influence families' decisions to stay in America or return to Turkey

Some families may wish their children to learn Turkish more strongly, grow up close to their grandparents, and forge stronger ties with Turkish culture

However, the situation is not the same for every family. When children start school in the U.S., build a circle of friends, and establish their lives here, it can become a strong reason to stay in America

When Returning to Turkey, Another Problem Arises This Time

After living in America for years, returning to Turkey is not always easy

People who have lived in the United States for a long time may find themselves having to readjust to many aspects—from daily life to work culture—when they return to Turkey. Researchers refer to this phenomenon as a 'reverse culture shock.'

When a person returns to the country they have long yearned for, they may realize that the Turkey they remember is not the same as the Turkey they encounter. Moreover, they may have changed during the years spent in the United States.

For some, therefore, a return to Turkey does not signify the end of the migration story.

They Are Not Closing the American Chapter Completely

The fact that some Turks returning from the United States are open to the idea of going abroad again is also one of the study's striking findings.

Migration no longer proceeds in a one-way direction from Turkey to the United States with a lifelong stay. A person who has come from Turkey to the United States can return after many years, and then consider moving again to the United States or another country. This shows that a return to Turkey does not always mean closing the American chapter entirely.

Perhaps the issue is not giving up on the American dream; choosing another life for themselves after years.