Bringing a Car into Turkey: Comprehensive Guide to Importing Vehicles

Bringing a car into Turkey from abroad can be a complex process, involving various regulations and requirements set by Turkish authorities. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand and navigate the process smoothly.

Regulations and Requirements

Duration of Stay:

• Foreigners can use their cars with foreign license plates in Turkey for up to 2 years (730 days). After this period, the vehicle must be taken out of Turkey.
• Only the owner or a close relative can operate the vehicle. Unauthorized use by others can result in penalties.

Driver’s License:

• Foreign driver’s licenses are valid in Turkey for six months. For stays longer than six months, a Turkish driver’s license is required.

Residency Requirement:

• In the past year, the time spent abroad (outside of Turkey) must be at least 185 days.
• You must have a driver’s license and passport (residence permit) from your country of residence.
• Insurance for your car must be valid in Turkey.

Documents Required

1. Vehicle Passport (Certificate of Title): Confirms vehicle registration in your country.
2. Technical Passport: Provides detailed information about the vehicle.
3. Driver’s License: Of the person operating the vehicle.
4. Residency Documentation: Passport, identity card, or residence permit.
5. Insurance Policy: Must be valid in Turkey.
6. Identification Documents: Passport or other official ID.
7. Pension Certificate: For retirees, translated and certified in Turkey.

Importing Process

1. Prepare Your Car:

• Ensure compliance with Turkish standards and safety requirements.
• Register the car in your name in your home country.
• Confirm the car is in good working condition.

2. Transportation:

• Drive to Turkey or use an international car transportation service.

3. Customs Procedures:

• Complete customs control upon entering Turkey.
• Pay import duties and value-added taxes.
• Undergo luggage inspection and provide necessary documents to customs officers.

4. Obtain Insurance:

• Secure insurance for legal coverage on Turkish roads.

Important Considerations

Compliance with the 185-Day Rule:

• The owner must be absent from Turkey for 185 days within the last year. This applies even to Turkish citizens.
• If the owner has lived in Turkey for more than six months, they cannot re-enter with a car on foreign plates without meeting the 185-day requirement.

Retirees:

• The 185-day rule does not apply to retirees. However, only one car per person can be imported into Turkey without paying taxes or duties.

Legal Status:

• If the owner has lived in another country for the last six months, they are no longer considered a resident of their home country (e.g., Russia). Consequently, they may be denied entry to Turkey with a car on foreign plates.

Key Points to Remember

1. Plan Ahead: Ensure all documents and compliance requirements are met before importing your car.
2. Understand Legalities: Be aware of Turkish regulations regarding foreign vehicles.
3. Insurance: Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for your vehicle in Turkey.
4. Consult Experts: Contact Turkish customs and automotive authorities or specialized import service companies for detailed information and assistance.

Conclusion

Bringing a car into Turkey involves careful planning, adherence to regulations, and thorough documentation. By understanding and following the outlined procedures, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, allowing you to enjoy your time in Turkey with your vehicle. For personalized assistance, consider consulting a licensed real estate or import service agency in Turkey.