Turkey's New eSIM Law: What Every Traveler Needs to Know Before Visiting Türkiye in 2025
Well, this is frustrating. Just as we started planning our long-awaited trip to Turkey (officially Türkiye), we discovered that Turkey's Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) blocked access to eight major international eSIM providers on July 10, 2025. Talk about terrible timing.
We've become pretty dependent on eSIMs over the years—they're convenient, cost-effective, and eliminate the hassle of hunting down physical SIM cards in every new country. But Turkey's recent regulatory changes have thrown a wrench into our usual travel connectivity strategy.
If you're planning a trip to Turkey in 2025 or beyond, here's everything you need to know about the new eSIM restrictions and how to stay connected during your visit.
What Exactly Happened with Turkey's eSIM Ban?
On July 10, 2025, Turkey's regulator (BTK) blocked access inside Turkey to eight international travel eSIM storefronts. This isn't technically a ban on eSIM technology itself, but rather a restriction on accessing these specific providers' websites and apps while connected to Turkish networks.
The affected providers include some of the biggest names in travel eSIMs:
- Holafly (one of our affiliate partners)
- Airalo
- Saily
- Nomad
- Instabridge
- Mobimatter
- Alosim
- BNESIM
For context, BTK mandates that user data and critical telecom infrastructure must be stored and managed within Turkey's borders. However, most international eSIM providers—including those recently banned—rely on global cloud systems and do not host their data on servers located in Turkey.
Why Did Turkey Block These eSIM Providers?
While BTK hasn't issued an official explanation, several credible reports from Turkish news outlets and digital rights organizations offer insight into the likely motivations behind the decision. The primary reasons appear to be:
Data Storage Rules
Turkey requires that user data and critical telecom infrastructure be stored within the country's borders. Most international eSIM providers use global cloud systems that don't meet these local data storage requirements.
Licensing and Regulatory Compliance
Foreign eSIM companies aren't registered as official telecom operators within Turkey and therefore don't fall under BTK's direct oversight. This gap gives BTK legal justification for restricting these services.
Market Protection
Critics suggest this move benefits Turkey's major telecom companies like Türk Telekom and Turkcell, which have strong government connections. The Turkey Wealth Fund, chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, holds a majority stake in Türk Telekom and owns 26.2 percent of Turkcell.
How the eSIM Restrictions Actually Work
Here's what's important to understand: eSIM technology itself isn't banned in Turkey. The restrictions specifically target access to certain providers' websites and apps while using Turkish networks.
Pre‑installed profiles continue working; you can still buy active Turkey data plans through Simbye and other compliant channels. This means if you already have an eSIM activated before entering Turkey, it should continue functioning normally.
The problems arise when you try to:
- Purchase a new eSIM plan while in Turkey
- Top up your existing plan
- Access customer service through the blocked apps
- Install a new eSIM profile using a QR code
Workarounds for Staying Connected in Turkey
Despite these restrictions, there are still several ways to maintain connectivity during your Turkey trip:
Option 1: Pre-Purchase and Activate Before Arrival (Recommended)
This is your best bet for hassle-free connectivity. Buy and activate your eSIM while you're still outside Turkey. Both Holafly (use code ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off) and other providers will continue working if properly activated before you cross into Turkish territory.
Pro tip: Download your QR code or save your manual installation details locally on your device before traveling, just in case you need to reinstall.
Option 2: Use Alternative eSIM Providers
Some eSIM providers remain accessible in Turkey, particularly those with local partnerships or compliance with Turkish regulations:
- Simlocal - Still operational (use code ADAMANDLINDS for 10% off)
- GigSky - Works as a licensed MVNO with local carrier partnerships
- eSIMFOX - Currently functional with local infrastructure
- Simbye - Compliant with Turkish regulations
Option 3: Purchase Local Turkish SIM Cards
You can still buy physical SIM cards from Turkish carriers at airports and city centers:
- Turkcell
- Vodafone Turkey
- Türk Telekom
Keep in mind you'll need your passport for registration, and airport prices are typically higher than city center shops.
Option 4: Use a VPN (With Caution)
If you need to purchase or top up an eSIM after arrival, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to bypass access restrictions on blocked provider websites. However, some VPNs may also be limited under Turkish regulations.
Important: VPNs are legal for personal use in Turkey, but some VPN websites are blocked, making it harder to download one after arrival. Install a reliable VPN before your trip if you plan to use this option.
Important Turkey-Specific Mobile Regulations
Beyond the eSIM restrictions, Turkey has some unique mobile device regulations that affect all travelers:
The 120-Day IMEI Rule
Turkey has a unique law that affects phones from abroad. You can use your phone on Turkish networks for up to 120 days without registering the device. But after 120 days, you'll need to officially register your phone with the government and pay a steep tax.
The registration tax is approximately 45,953 Turkish Lira (around £845 or $1,000), which is obviously cost-prohibitive for most travelers. Fortunately, if you're visiting for less than four months, this won't affect you.
Internet Censorship Considerations
Turkey has a history of restricting access to social media platforms during significant events. WhatsApp, Instagram and X have all faced temporary slowdowns or outages in the past two years during high-profile events. Your mobile data connection won't bypass these restrictions.
Our Planned Approach for Turkey
As we plan our own Turkey adventure for late 2025 or early 2026, here's our strategy:
- Buy eSIMs from both Holafly and Simlocal before arrival. Holafly connects to Turkcell and TT Mobil networks, while Simlocal uses Turkcell and Vodafone networks. Having both should ensure at least one works properly.
- Use our codes: ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off Holafly and 10% off Simlocal
- Install a reliable VPN before departure as a backup option
- Research local SIM options at Istanbul Airport as a fallback
- Budget for potential backup connectivity costs
What This Means for the Future of Travel eSIMs
Turkey's approach raises concerning questions about digital freedom and market protectionism in the travel connectivity space. While countries have legitimate interests in regulating telecommunications and protecting user data, blocking access to international services can significantly impact travelers and digital nomads.
For families who spend significant time on the road, this highlights the importance of:
- Having backup options rather than relying on a single provider
- Staying informed about local regulations before traveling
- Preparing backup solutions for countries with restrictive digital policies
We hope Turkey will find a way to balance legitimate regulatory concerns with traveler convenience, perhaps by creating a framework for international eSIM providers to comply with local requirements rather than blocking access entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eSIM technology completely banned in Turkey?
No, eSIM technology itself is not banned. Only access to certain foreign eSIM storefronts is blocked; local/operator & pre‑installed profiles still work. If you activate your eSIM before entering Turkey, it should continue functioning normally.
Which eSIM providers are affected by the Turkey ban?
The eight providers blocked include Airalo, Holafly, Saily, Nomad, Instabridge, Mobimatter, Alosim, and BNESIM. These are some of the most popular international travel eSIM services.
Can I still use Holafly or Airalo in Turkey if I activate before arriving?
Yes, in most cases. Pre-activated eSIMs might continue to function for a limited time. However, there is no guarantee. The main issues arise when trying to purchase new plans or top up existing ones while in Turkey.
What are the best eSIM alternatives that still work in Turkey?
Simlocal (use code ADAMANDLINDS for 10% off), GigSky, eSIMFOX, and Simbye are among the providers that remain accessible in Turkey as of late 2025.
Can I use a VPN to access blocked eSIM providers in Turkey?
One way around this is by using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN creates a connection between your device and a remote server. However, some VPN services may also face restrictions in Turkey, so install one before arrival.
How much does it cost to register a foreign phone in Turkey?
You'll need to officially register your phone with the government and pay a steep tax of approximately 45,953 Turkish Lira (around £845/$1,000) if you stay longer than 120 days.
Are physical SIM cards still available for tourists?
Yes, you can purchase physical SIM cards from Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom at airports and city centers. You'll need your passport for registration.
Will my existing eSIM work immediately upon landing in Turkey?
If properly activated before arrival, yes. However, you may not be able to access the provider's app or website for account management while connected to Turkish networks.
Planning your own Turkey adventure? Consider using Simlocal with code ADAMANDLINDS for 10% off your eSIM, or contact Lindsay at [email protected] for personalized Turkey travel planning that takes these connectivity challenges into account.
FTC Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we use or plan to use ourselves. All opinions are our own, and this situation has genuinely affected our Turkey travel planning process.
