In Turkey, the registration of phones imported from foreign countries is subject to specific regulations and requirements. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the legal procedures and provide valuable information about phone registration in Turkey to ensure compliance and hassle-free usage.
In this article, moving forward, we are going to let you know the nitty-gritty of registering an imported phone while staying in Turkey.
When you bring a phone from abroad into Turkey, you have a maximum of 120 days (known as the “foreign phone registration period”) from your entry date to register it under your name and GSM number. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the inability to register the device, necessitating a departure from and re-entry into the country to fulfill the registration requirements.
In Turkey, you can register a phone imported from abroad once every three years, following the calendar year. For instance, if you registered your phone on February 30, 2020, you will become eligible for a new registration on January 1, 2023. This rule prevents abuse of the registration process and ensures fair access to phone registration services.
Once the three-year period has elapsed from the date of registration, phones imported from foreign countries can be used with any GSM network within Turkey without any restrictions. This flexibility is granted to individuals to accommodate their needs and preferences regarding phone usage.
All phone registration procedures can be efficiently completed through the E-Government (E Devlet) platform, which simplifies the process for users. Additionally, authorized Subscriber Registration Centers can assist you in completing the registration, providing accessible alternatives for those who prefer in-person assistance. To identify your phone’s IMEI number, dial *#06# from your device. This unique identifier will be essential during the registration process, and the associated registration fee will be determined based on this IMEI number.
Buying Second-Hand Imported Phones: If you plan to purchase a second-hand phone that has been imported from abroad and registered in Turkey, it is essential to verify its legitimacy. To ensure compliance with the law, follow these steps:
Required documents and information include:
1. A passport that has not had any phone registrations within the past three calendar years and proof of foreign-to-domestic entry within the past year.
2. Your Turkish Republic Identity Number (Foreign ID Number, T.C. Kimlik Numarası).
3. Payment of the foreign phone registration fee, which amounts to 31,692 TL for 2024 (commonly referred to as the passport phone operation fee) and can be conveniently paid through the E-Government platform.
4. Your phone number, which should be associated with the passport holder.
By following these procedures and complying with legal requirements, you can ensure that your imported phone is registered and ready for use within Turkey. Staying informed about these regulations is crucial to avoid legal complications and enjoy uninterrupted use of your imported device.
Bayraktar Attorneys: Your Legal Partner At Bayraktar Attorneys, we specialize in providing expert legal guidance to individuals and businesses navigating complex legal matters in Turkey. If you have any questions, require legal assistance, or seek further information about phone registration or any other legal concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to assist you in ensuring compliance with Turkish laws and regulations.
By the way, what’s your understanding of phone testimony as a Foreigner in Turkey?