Entrepreneur & Founder of Has Trade and Logistics

America is not a fantasy—it is a reachable reality when you take the right steps
with the right guidance.

By Sitki Kazanci
In this candid and inspiring interview, Bülent Durmuşoğlu—a seasoned entrepreneur and the founder of Has Trade and Logistics—shares his remarkable journey from the vibrant streets of Istanbul to building a new life and business in Alpharetta, Georgia. With a background rooted in corporate success and international trade, Durmuşoğlu speaks openly about the challenges of immigration, the sacrifices made for family, and his mission to guide others navigating the complex US immigration system. Through his growing social media presence, he has become a trusted voice for many aspiring immigrants, offering strategic guidance and hard-earned wisdom. This is the story of resilience, reinvention, and redefining success on new soil.

Mr. Durmuşoğlu, to help our readers get to know you better, could you tell us about your early years, your hometown, and your family background?
I was born in Germany in 1974, but I have always considered myself a native of Istanbul. My family hails from Sürmene, Trabzon. My father was involved in construction and plastic injection molding, and I am the second of five siblings. I grew up in the Haznedar district of Güngören, Istanbul, immersed in the spirit of the ’80s and ’90s—a time marked by strong family bonds, community life, and the simplicity of childhood games played in the streets.
I began working at the age of 15 and, thanks to my early start and official insurance registration, I later retired as a white-collar professional from one of Türkiye’s leading conglomerates. I spent 38 years in Haznedar and another 7 in Beylikdüzü. My education was entirely in Istanbul. Three years ago, I moved to Alpharetta, Georgia, where I currently reside, working in consultancy and logistics, while also sharing my experiences on social media.

How did your journey to the United States begin, and what were your first impressions?
It all started with my eldest son, who was admitted to a US university and received his visa independently. Before the end of his first year, he told us, “I am not coming back.” So we decided to join him. He is now married, and we are already encouraging the next step—grandchildren.
My initial impressions of the US were mixed. Bureaucracy moved slowly, and the banking system felt cumbersome. However, I was impressed by the respectful and helpful nature of the people, the centrality of insurance in daily life, and the active lifestyle of the seniors. There is a strong sense of independence here, and I found it inspiring how hard work is often rewarded more directly than in other places.

What motivated your decision to settle in the US permanently?
Life in Türkiye was comfortable—an executive role in a major corporation, a thriving personal business, and a luxurious lifestyle. But when our son decided to stay in the US, we chose family over comfort and followed him.
Looking back, I often think, “I wish I had moved here earlier.” The first years were challenging, but I have since gained the knowledge and experience to thrive. The US is truly a land of opportunity. My greatest motivation has been ensuring my children’s safety and happiness. Other benefits—such as ease of earning, quality of life, and reduced traffic—also reinforced our decision.

What were some of the challenges you faced during the migration process? Can you share a moment that left a lasting impression?
We moved to the US in 2022, just after the pandemic. At that time, there was a severe shortage of advisors, resources, and knowledgeable immigration lawyers regarding E-2 and similar visas. We had to navigate everything ourselves.
One of the most striking experiences was realizing—two years after arrival—that we could have purchased a home with just a 5% down payment. Even long-time Turkish residents here did not believe me when I told them about it. It was frustrating, but we did the research, made it happen, and shared the process online. Thanks to that video, seven or eight families have since become homeowners, and more are in the process.

Could you tell us about your family in the United States and in Türkiye?
We currently live as a household of three. My son is married, and we now have a Bangladeshi daughter-in-law. My brother-in-law also lives with us and manages our trucking operations. This summer, my sister-in-law and her husband will be joining us. My extended family remains in Istanbul and Trabzon and is more interested in traveling Europe than relocating to the US.

In just three years, you have achieved considerable success and now guide newcomers. Could you tell us more about this journey and your services?
Although I arrived with a strong financial foundation, my first year in the US was marked by setbacks due to a lack of knowledge. I imported three containers of goods, hoping to start a trade business—but one container still sits in storage today.
That experience led me to connect with others who were navigating similar challenges. I began researching, learning as much as possible—almost to the level of an immigration attorney. Eventually, friends urged me to share my insights online. Today, through referrals and social media, I provide personalized consultations—typically 25–30 calls a day, each lasting about 15–20 minutes.
I carefully listen to each person’s goals, budget, and background to create a tailored roadmap. I then refer them to immigration attorneys to begin the formal process. I handle all consultations because clients often say they feel like they already know me from my videos, and that connection is significant.

What services do you offer to people interested in moving to the US? How can they contact you?
I categorize each client based on three main factors:
◗ Visa Status: For those with US visas, we explore adjustment of status or extensions. For those without visas but with capital, we build E-2 plans from Türkiye.
◗ Budget: We assess feasible investment paths based on available funds.
◗ Education and Career: We match immigration pathways like EB2 or L-1 to professional background.
I work closely with experienced immigration attorneys to initiate the process once the path is defined.
Instagram: @bulent_amerika
YouTube: Bülent Durmuş
Email: destek@bulentamerika.com

What advice would you give to Turkish citizens planning to move to the US?
◗ Do in-depth research on your business model and state-specific laws.
◗ Always work with licensed advisors and immigration attorneys.
◗ Never make payments without attorney confirmation.
◗ Choose your state and city wisely—it affects everything.
◗ Be prepared emotionally and financially for the first year.
◗ Stay determined—success takes time and resilience.
◗ Do not worry too much about not knowing English initially; openness and effort go a long way.
◗ Most importantly, love hard work—it is the surest path to success here.

Your social media presence has grown rapidly. How are you using it to help others?
Most people who reach out to me have already made the decision to move—they just need clarity. I provide practical information about building a life in the US, from job ideas to family life. I have shared over 15 business models so far. These real-world examples inspire others and help them act with confidence.

What are your goals for the future—both professionally and personally?
My professional goal is to expand sustainably in logistics, especially in trucking and auto transport. Personally, I want to help more people understand that America is attainable. Through clear guidance, I hope to prevent others from repeating the same mistakes I made.

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?
I am a passionate Trabzonspor fan. We often gather in my warehouse, watch matches on a big screen, grill food, and enjoy tea with fellow Turkish families—building community through shared traditions. I also love discovering new places, people, and cultures. In fact, my biggest hobby is working and being productive—it energizes me.

What does your daily routine look like?
My day begins at 6:00 am responding to messages, and I typically wrap up around 9:30 pm. My warehouse, which doubles as my office, is always buzzing with people. I go through about five or six pots of tea a day, and my phone rarely stops ringing. It is intense but fulfilling.

What has been your proudest moment so far?
When my son was accepted into a US university in 2021 and handled everything on his own at the age of 18. That moment confirmed we were on the right path.

Who has had the most significant influence on your life?
My father. He was intelligent, visionary, and courageous—a true Trabzonlu. He was like a second Atatürk to me, and I have drawn much of my perspective and drive from him.

What might surprise our readers about you?
I was a DJ for four years in my youth. Music is still a big part of my life. I love rap, hip hop, techno, and underground music. I even attended Tiësto’s concert in Atlanta and Sagopa Kajmer’s concert in New York last year. My DJ equipment still sits proudly in my warehouse.

Finally, do you have a message for the Turkish-American community and TurkNetwork readers?
If you are planning to come to the US, start with professional guidance. Know your budget, research your destination thoroughly, and prepare well. The American dream is not a fantasy—it is a real possibility when you take the right steps. ■