Updated · 5 min read
Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world, from Istanbul to the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts and Cappadocia. For most foreign phone plans, Turkey is not included in roaming bundles, so mobile data can be charged separately.
Buy and install before you travel
In July 2025 the Turkish regulator BTK blocked access to the websites and apps of several foreign eSIM providers from Turkish networks. Using an eSIM in Turkey is not banned: an eSIM bought and installed before arrival continues to work according to providers. Buy and install it at home, and choose enough data, because buying a top-up from inside Turkey is not guaranteed to work. Status: November 2026.
Will my phone be blocked in Turkey?
Not on a normal holiday. Turkey registers phones by their IMEI. A phone bought abroad can be used on Turkish networks without registration for a limited period (about 120 days), whether with a Turkish SIM, roaming or a travel eSIM. Longer stays require paid registration of the device.
How much data do I need?
For a one-week beach holiday with maps, messaging, social media and some video, 3–5 GB is usually enough. If you stream or upload many photos, choose 10 GB or more.
Setup in three steps
- Buy the eSIM before departure and install it at home on Wi-Fi.
- After landing, select the eSIM for mobile data.
- Turn data roaming on for the eSIM and off for your home SIM.
Current Turkey plans, data sizes and prices are on our Turkey eSIM page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a Turkey eSIM after arriving in Turkey?
It may not work reliably, because access to several foreign eSIM providers was blocked in Turkey in 2025. Buy and install it before you travel.
Do I need to register my phone for a short holiday in Turkey?
No. Registration is required only for longer stays (about 120 days or more).