How to buy simcard (tourist simcard, 90 days valid)
By Burak Ünal, Founder & Managing Partner, Gordion Partners
· · 2 min read
In short
Tourist SIM cards from Turkcell, Vodafone and Türk Telekom are sold in the operators' shops on presentation of a passport, and the line is registered to that passport. They are valid for 90 days, and a phone brought from abroad can be used for up to 120 days before it must be registered; check packages and prices with the operator.
In Turkey, there are three main mobile phone operators: Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Turk Telekom. These companies offer a variety of services, such as voice and data, to individuals and enterprises. You can purchase a SIM card from any of these companies' offices.
Turkcell is a Turkish company that has a strong network and coverage in all cities in Turkey. Vodafone Turkey is a British company that operates as one of the world's leading mobile communication companies and is Turkey's second-largest mobile communication company. Turk Telekom is a Turkish company that provides a full range of internet/data services and wholesale voice services to various customers.
In addition to traditional physical SIM cards, Turkish mobile phone operators also offer e-SIM options. Turkcell and Vodafone Turkey charge an additional fee for e-SIMs, while Turk Telekom does not currently offer e-SIMs. To purchase a SIM card, you will need to have a valid passport or recognized travel document. The SIM card must be registered to your passport.
Tourist SIM cards are valid for 90 days and can be extended with a residence permit and foreigner ID number. Non-residents can use their mobile phone in Turkey for up to 120 days without registering it. If you want to use your mobile phone in Turkey after 120 days, you must register it.
Turkcell offers a package that includes a SIM card for 600TL, which includes 20GB of data and 200 minutes for the first month. Additional internet can be purchased for 140TL. Vodafone Turkey charges 415TL per month for a package that includes 20GB of data, 750 minutes, 250 SMS, and a free power bank. Turk Telekom charges 350TL per month for a package that includes 30GB of data, 750 minutes, and 750 SMS.
In summary, tourists can buy simcard from one of the three major GSM operator in turkey, Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Turk Telekom. Tourist simcard is valid for 90 days and can be extended with residence permit and foreigner ID number. Packages and fees vary among the companies. If you plan to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days in any 180-day period, you need a residence permit, and our page on the short-term residence permit explains who can apply.
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The information on this page is general and is not legal, tax or investment advice. Rules, amounts and procedures change; contact us to confirm the current requirements before you act.
