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Can Foreigners Use Their Own Cars in Turkey

Many foreigners visiting or residing in Turkey wonder whether they can bring and use their personal vehicles while in the country. Whether you’re planning a short vacation, living as an expat, or driving from Europe, it’s important to understand the legal framework, time limits, and procedures involved.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about bringing and driving a foreign-registered car in Turkey as a non-citizen.

Who Can Use a Foreign-Plated Vehicle in Turkey?

    • Foreigners can temporarily import and drive their own vehicles in Turkey under certain conditions.

      This includes:

      • Tourists visiting Turkey with their own vehicles
      • Foreigners with a residence permit
      • Dual citizens living abroad who visit Turkey temporarily
      • Expats who want to bring their vehicle for long-term stays

How Long Can You Keep a Foreign Vehicle in Turkey?

According to Turkish Customs Law, as of 2024:

  • Tourists and residents can use their foreign-plated vehicles in Turkey for up to 730 days (2 years) without paying customs tax, under a system called “temporary importation”.

However:

  • You must not leave the vehicle in Turkey while you are abroad.
  • The 2-year period is only valid as long as you are in Turkey. If you leave, the car must also leave.

✅ The vehicle must be registered under your name, or under your spouse/children’s name (with proof).

Required Documents at the Border

  • When entering Turkey by car, you’ll need the following:

    1. Passport
    2. Valid driver’s license (International or EU license accepted)
    3. Vehicle registration (original)
    4. International green card (insurance) valid in Turkey
    5. Customs guarantee form (blue card or TA document)
    6. Residence permit or tourist visa (if applicable)

    Upon entry, your vehicle will be issued a “temporary importation permit” (Gümrük Giriş Formu). This document is essential and must be kept with you.

Important Rules to Follow

  • The vehicle can only be driven by you, your spouse, or children. No one else (not even a Turkish friend) can legally drive it.
  • You cannot sell, rent, or leave the car to a third party in Turkey.
  • The vehicle must exit Turkey before the permit expires.
  • If the time limit is exceeded, heavy fines and seizure may occur.

Traffic Regulations for Foreign Vehicles

  • Once inside Turkey, you must follow all standard traffic rules:

    • Drive on the right-hand side
    • Always carry your license, registration, and insurance
    • Use seat belts and avoid phone use while driving
    • Strict rules apply for drunk driving and speed limits

    Police may stop you for checks, and you must be able to show your customs papers and valid insurance.

Insurance: Do You Need It?

Yes. You must have valid insurance that covers your car during its stay in Turkey.

  • Most European insurances are valid under the Green Card system.
  • If not, you must purchase Turkish third-party liability insurance at the border or from local providers.

Optional: Comprehensive coverage (kasko) from a Turkish insurer is also available for peace of mind.

Can You Extend Your Stay Beyond 2 Years?

No, the maximum duration for temporary importation is 2 years. After that:

    • The vehicle must leave Turkey and stay abroad for at least 185 days before being brought back again.
    • You can re-import the same vehicle only after this waiting period.
    • Trying to bypass this rule can lead to confiscation and tax penalties.

What Happens If You Overstay?

If you keep the car in Turkey beyond the allowed time:

    • You may face high customs duties and fines.
    • In some cases, the vehicle can be confiscated by customs authorities.
    • You will also have trouble re-entering with a vehicle in the future.

Alternative Options for Long-Term Stay

If you plan to live in Turkey long-term and need a car, you have other options:
  • Buy a Car in Turkey
    • Foreigners with a residence permit can buy Turkish-plated vehicles.
    • Must obtain a Turkish tax number and register the car in your name.
    • All standard taxes and registration fees apply.
    1. “Blue Plate” Vehicles (Yabancı Plaka / MA-MZ Plates)
    • These are tax-free vehicles imported for foreigners living in Turkey.
    • Only available to certain foreigners, e.g., retirees, diplomats, or those working with international organizations.
    • Conditions are strict and approval is needed from Turing (Türkiye Turing ve Otomobil Kurumu).

    Final Thoughts

    Turkey welcomes foreign drivers and allows long-term use of personal vehicles under fair and organized regulations. However, it’s essential to follow the rules and understand your responsibilities as a vehicle owner. If you’re unsure about any steps, we recommend:
    • Contacting Turkish Customs Office (Gümrük)
    • Consulting with TURING or an automobile club
    • Getting advice from your embassy or consulate