Erdal Nuhbasa – Law and Consulting Firm – Legal Services
ERDAL NUHBASA
LAW AND CONSULTING FIRM
Erdal Nuhbasa – Law and Consulting Firm – Legal Services
ERDAL NUHBASA
LAW AND CONSULTING FIRM
As a lawyer, I am frequently asked about the rules for bringing vehicles into Turkey through temporary importation: “Can I bring my car from abroad?” “What is the procedure?” “Which documents are required?” This process is regulated by Turkish customs law and is subject to specific conditions. Understanding these requirements is essential for eligible foreign nationals wishing to use their vehicles in Türkiye without permanent import.
The legal basis for this regime is found in Articles 130 and 131 of the Turkish Customs Law No. 4458 (dated 27 October 1999) and Article 376/j of the Customs Regulation, published in the Official Gazette No. 27369 on 7 October 2009. Under this framework, foreign-registered vehicles may be admitted into Türkiye on a temporary basis through the Temporary Entry Permit for Foreign Vehicles (Y.T.G.G.K.), also known as the Carnet de Passage, issued by the Turkish Touring and Automobile Association.
The Y.T.G.G.K. serves as a guarantee document under the customs procedure of temporary admission. Instead of paying customs duties and taxes at the border, the Carnet serves as a binding commitment that the vehicle will be re-exported from Türkiye within the permitted timeframe. If this obligation is not fulfilled, the guarantee is forfeited and penalties may be imposed.
In practice, the system offers a structured and legally secure way for eligible individuals to bring their own vehicles into Türkiye for temporary use, provided that all conditions of customs law are respected.
The Temporary Entry Permit for Foreign Vehicles (Y.T.G.G.K.) is granted only to individuals who meet the specific residency and legal conditions set out in the Customs Law and Regulation. In practice, eligibility extends to:
Not every foreigner can take advantage of this opportunity. Turkish law excludes certain categories from applying for a YTGGK. These categories are:
The documents you need to submit vary depending on your status in Türkiye. Below are the full requirements for foreign employees, students, and retirees.
International students enrolled at a Turkish educational institution must provide the following:
Foreign nationals who are retired and residing in Türkiye must prepare the following:
The Y.T.G.G.K. is generally granted for up to one or two years, but its validity cannot exceed the duration of the applicant’s residence or work permit. In other words, even if the carnet is issued for two years, it will automatically be limited to the period authorized by immigration documents.
Eligible vehicle owners may use the Y.T.G.G.K. for a maximum period of 730 days. It is essential to apply for an extension before the expiry date, as failure to do so may result in administrative fines or other legal consequences.
Once issued, the carnet cannot be canceled or refunded due to a change of mind. The guarantee deposit is only refundable after the vehicle is permanently exported from Turkey and all customs and traffic procedures have been properly completed.
Another important consideration is the vehicle registration document. If it is not in an internationally recognized language, a certified Turkish translation issued by a consulate or notary is required to complete the Y.T.G.G.K. application.
Temporary vehicle importation is also subject to official fees. Payments can be made directly at the Turkish Touring and Automobile Association offices, and credit card payments are accepted. As of the latest schedule:
For extensions, additional fees apply:
Payments can be made directly at the Turkish Touring and Automobile Association offices, and credit card payments are accepted.
For foreigners wishing to temporarily import their vehicles into Türkiye, understanding the legal framework and preparing the correct documentation is essential. The process involves strict eligibility rules, specific paperwork, financial guarantees, and ongoing compliance with Turkish customs law. Applying within deadlines and keeping all documents in order will help avoid unnecessary penalties and ensure a smooth experience.
If you are planning to bring your car into Turkey, consulting a lawyer specialized in customs law can help you navigate the requirements effectively and protect your legal rights.
Contact Us Today
If you’re a foreign resident in Turkey and are interested in buying a tax-free vehicle, don’t take chances with guesswork or misinformation. Let our legal team guide you from start to finish.
📞 Erdal Nuhbasa Law and Consulting Firm
📍 Kartaltepe Mah. Bahçesaray Sok. No:19/3 Bakırköy, Istanbul, Turkey
📧 erdalnuhbasa@hotmail.com
🌐 www.erdalnuhbasa.com
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