Comprehensive Guide to Registering Imported Phones in Turkey

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. 

How To Register Imported Phones In Turkey?

In this article, moving forward, we are going to let you know the nitty-gritty of registering an imported phone while staying in Turkey.

Understanding the 120-Day Rule:

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. 

Phone Registration Frequency:

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. 

Post-Three-Year Period:

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. 

Convenient Online Registration:

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?