Turkey updates registration rules for phones brought from abroad
Turkey's Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) has introduced new rules for registering mobile phones with foreign IMEI numbers. The new regulations are already in effect.
What's changed?
• IMEI registration is now available only through e-Devlet. Registration by SMS has been discontinued. All applications must now be submitted through the official e-Devlet portal.
• Replacing a registered IMEI after repair is now easier. If a phone's motherboard has been replaced or the device has been officially exchanged, the registered IMEI can be updated through e-Devlet within three years of the initial registration, provided an authorized service document is available.
• Special rules now apply to diplomatic staff. Their devices will remain active until the diplomatic ID expires and for an additional 120 days before the IMEI is automatically blocked.
• The official IMEI registration fee for 2026 is 54,258 Turkish lira.
These changes affect anyone bringing a mobile phone into Turkey for use with a Turkish SIM card.
