Importing a vehicle into Turkey requires understanding a series of regulations and procedures to ensure a smooth transition. Whether you’re relocating temporarily or planning an extended stay, knowing the legal framework for bringing a car into the country will help avoid unexpected hurdles. Here’s a detailed guide on how to import a vehicle into Turkey from abroad.
Requirements for Importing a Vehicle
Before bringing your vehicle into Turkey, you’ll need to ensure that you have the necessary documents in order:
1. Vehicle Registration Document: The car must be registered in the country where you hold citizenship, residency, or a work permit. The registration document (title or vehicle ownership certificate) serves as proof of ownership.
2. Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license from your home country is required. However, foreign licenses are only valid for six months in Turkey, after which you’ll need to obtain a Turkish driver’s license.
3. International Insurance: You will need an international insurance policy, commonly known as a green card, which is valid in Turkey. This policy must cover third-party liability at the minimum.
4. Passport and Visa: Ensure that your passport is valid, and you have the appropriate visa or residency status to stay in Turkey.
5. Customs Declaration: You will need to complete a customs declaration upon arrival, detailing the vehicle’s specifics, including its make, model, and value. This can often be done in advance online through Turkey’s e-government portal (E-Devlet) to expedite the process.
Customs Procedures and Import Fees
Upon reaching Turkey’s borders, your vehicle will go through customs checks. The customs officers will inspect the car for compliance with Turkish regulations, including emissions standards, safety, and the condition of the vehicle. This step is crucial as any violations could result in the refusal of entry.
Once your vehicle passes inspection, you’ll be required to file a customs declaration form, providing information about the car’s origin, value, and intended use in Turkey. Based on this information, you will be subject to customs fees. The amount depends on factors such as the vehicle’s engine size, age, and overall value.
Temporary vehicle imports may also require a transit plate, which is a temporary license plate allowing you to drive while awaiting full registration in Turkey.
Restrictions and Time Limits
Vehicles with foreign plates can stay in Turkey for up to two years under temporary import rules. However, this privilege is reserved for non-residents. To qualify, you must not have lived in Turkey for more than 185 days during the previous year. If you have lived in Turkey longer, you are considered a resident and are not allowed to import a car with foreign plates. This rule resets after leaving Turkey for an extended period.
One important restriction to keep in mind is that foreign-registered vehicles cannot be sold or rented out in Turkey. They must remain in the possession of the registered owner or their immediate family members while in the country.
Leaving Turkey with Your Vehicle
If you plan to leave Turkey without your car, customs regulations require that you inform the nearest customs office of your vehicle’s location before departure. Failure to do so can lead to fines or other penalties, and you may not be allowed to exit Turkey. Additionally, if you leave with your vehicle and re-enter Turkey, your two-year period will not automatically reset. You will be subject to the 185-day rule unless you take significant time abroad.
Permanent Import and Registration
For those considering a permanent move to Turkey, importing a vehicle is still an option, though it comes with additional considerations. You will need to register the car with the Turkish authorities, which involves paying taxes based on the vehicle’s age, type, and engine size. Registration fees can be significant, so it’s worth calculating whether importing a vehicle or purchasing one locally is more cost-effective.
Once registered, you will be issued Turkish plates, and your vehicle will need to undergo regular inspections, just like any other car registered in the country.
Conclusion
Bringing a vehicle into Turkey can be a relatively straightforward process, provided you follow the necessary steps and understand the regulations in place. Make sure you have all required documents, complete the customs process, and be aware of time limits on foreign vehicles in the country. For long-term residents, registering the car in Turkey may be the best option to avoid potential complications.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your vehicle import experience goes smoothly, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of driving in Turkey.
