Bringing your car from Germany to Türkiye can offer comfort, flexibility, and independence as you settle into your new life. Whether you are relocating permanently or planning a long-term stay, understanding customs procedures and insurance requirements is essential to avoid delays, penalties, or unexpected costs.

Step 1: Understand Türkiye’s Vehicle Entry Requirements

Before you travel, confirm that your German-registered vehicle complies with Türkiye’s temporary import regulations.

You will typically need:

  • Original vehicle registration documents
  • Valid passport
  • Visa or valid residence permit (for long-term stays)
  • Valid international or foreign plate insurance

Customs officers will require you to formally declare your vehicle upon entry. Carry both originals and photocopies of all documents to prevent unnecessary delays.

If you are unsure about your eligibility to keep the vehicle in Türkiye, a professional consultation before departure can save time and avoid border complications.

Step 2: Navigate the Customs Process

Crossing the border with a vehicle involves more than standard passport control.

Here’s how to stay prepared:

1. Declare Your Vehicle

At the Turkish border, your car must be officially registered under your passport in the customs system.

2. Temporary Import Period

Tourists are generally allowed to keep a foreign-plated vehicle in Türkiye for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, depending on residency status.

If you plan to stay longer, additional procedures apply.

3. Temporary Import Permit (If Required)

For extended stays, you may need a temporary import permit. This may involve:

  • Additional documentation
  • Proof of residency
  • In some cases, a financial guarantee

Always monitor your vehicle’s permitted stay carefully. Overstaying can result in fines or restrictions on future entries.

Step 3: Secure Mandatory Foreign Plate Insurance

Driving without valid Turkish insurance is illegal and exposes you to serious financial risk.

The required policy for foreign-registered vehicles is foreign plate traffic insurance. This ensures compliance with Turkish road laws and provides financial protection in case of accidents.

Types of Coverage

Third-Party Liability (Mandatory Minimum)
Covers damage or injury you cause to others. Does not cover your own vehicle.

Comprehensive Insurance (Optional but Recommended)
Offers broader protection, including damage to your own vehicle.

Choosing the right coverage depends on:

  • Length of stay
  • Driving frequency
  • Vehicle value
  • Personal risk tolerance

As a trusted online platform, Ikamet specializes in providing legally compliant foreign plate insurance quickly and efficiently.

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Buy your foreign plate insurance before reaching the border at Ikamet.com to avoid delays or fines and ensure a smooth, legally compliant entry into Türkiye.

Why Choose Ikamet for Foreign Plate Insurance?

Ikamet.com simplifies the process of securing mandatory vehicle insurance in Türkiye.

Whether you are entering Türkiye for the first time or renewing your coverage, Ikamet ensures full compliance with Turkish regulations—without paperwork stress.

Contact Ikamet for a personalized consultation and secure your coverage today.

Buy foreign plate insurance at Ikamet.com before the border to avoid fines and ensure compliant entry into Türkiye.

Foreign Plate Insurance Pricing in Türkiye

To help you plan confidently, here is a general pricing overview for foreign plate traffic insurance in Türkiye:

VALIDITY PERIOD CAR (TL) MOTORCYCLE (TL) TRUCK / CAMPER VAN (TL)
1 Month 1,000 1,000 4,000
3 Months 1,500 1,000 4,500
6 Months 5,000 1,500 7,500
1 Year 8,000 1,500 15,000
Motorcoach (full-size touring buses) are priced at 20,600 TL for all policy durations.

Prices are subject to change based on regulations and vehicle classification. Contact Ikamet for a personalized quote.

Step 4: Understand Costs and Additional Paperwork

Depending on your stay duration and status, additional costs may apply.

Possible Expenses Include:

  • Temporary registration fees
  • Applicable vehicle taxes
  • Customs-related administrative fees
  • Insurance premiums

You must always carry:

  • Original proof of ownership
  • Registration certificate
  • Valid insurance policy
  • Passport and residence documentation

Proper preparation reduces waiting times and prevents unexpected penalties.

Planning a Longer Stay?

If you are relocating to Türkiye, you may also need:

Ikamet provides full support not only for vehicle insurance but also for residency procedures, helping you settle legally and confidently.

Ready for the Road in Türkiye

Türkiye offers diverse landscapes—from coastlines to mountain roads—making driving an enjoyable experience. But smooth travel begins with proper compliance.

Before departure:

  • Double-check all documents
  • Confirm your permitted stay duration
  • Secure valid Turkish insurance
  • Keep copies of all paperwork

A well-prepared move allows you to focus on building your new life, not resolving legal complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I keep my German-registered car in Türkiye?

Tourists are typically allowed up to 90 days within a 180-day period, depending on their residency status. Longer stays require additional procedures and permissions.

Is foreign plate insurance mandatory in Türkiye?

Yes. Foreign-registered vehicles must have valid Turkish traffic insurance to be legally driven in Türkiye.

Can I buy foreign plate insurance online?

Yes. Ikamet allows you to purchase legally compliant foreign plate insurance online and receive your policy via email.

What happens if I overstay the permitted vehicle period?

You may face fines, penalties, or future entry restrictions. Always monitor your permitted vehicle stay carefully.

Do I need a residence permit to keep my car longer?

If you plan to stay beyond tourist limits, a residence permit and temporary import procedures are typically required.

Does foreign plate insurance include roadside assistance?

All Ikamet foreign plate insurance policies include accident assistance as standard. In addition, full roadside assistance can now be added for an additional fee at the time of purchase. Contact Ikamet if you would like to include extended roadside coverage with your policy.