Attention those using phones from abroad! You only have a few days left

High mobile phone prices in Turkey lead some users to purchase their devices from abroad. However, to use mobile phones brought from abroad in Turkey without issues, attention must be paid to IMEI registration periods and usage rules.

Devices brought from abroad that are not registered are subject to a specific usage period once they start being used with lines belonging to GSM operators in Turkey. After this period expires, devices without an IMEI registration may be blocked from mobile communication.

SIM OPTION CAN AFFECT THE DURATION

While the usage period is more limited for single-SIM phones, different SIM options can be utilized for devices with dual SIM slots or support for both a physical SIM and an e-SIM. After the period for the first SIM option expires, users can obtain additional usage within the same calendar year via the other SIM slot or the e-SIM.

Information regarding a device's usage period can generally be tracked through messages sent to users. Therefore, it is important for those using phones brought from abroad to pay attention to incoming notifications and check their IMEI status through official channels.

The calendar year is also a determining factor in calculating the usage period for foreign devices. If a device's usage period has expired within a year, it may be possible for the usage status to be re-evaluated with the start of a new calendar year.

Users who wish to register an IMEI must check the current fees and application requirements before proceeding. It is noted that as of 2026, the IMEI registration fee is applied as 54 thousand 258 liras.

Experts also warn against illegal IMEI modification processes. Since unauthorized interference with an IMEI number can lead to both legal and technical problems, users must only perform transactions through official and legal methods.