Owning a Vehicle in Turkey as a Foreign Resident: A Complete Legal & Practical Guide (2025)

For many expatriates, having their own car is essential for daily life and for exploring the beautiful landscapes of Turkey. However, the process of acquiring and owning a vehicle as a foreign resident is subject to specific regulations that differ from those for Turkish citizens. This comprehensive guide, compiled with insights from a professional İstanbul real estate lawyer, breaks down the legalities, costs, and procedures involved in owning a car in Turkey, whether you’re buying a new one or bringing your own from abroad.

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The Two Main Paths to Vehicle Ownership

As a foreign resident in Turkey, you have two primary options for getting a car:

Buying a Car in Turkey: This is the most common and often simplest path. You can buy either a new or a second-hand vehicle.
Bringing a Car from Abroad: This option is legally complex and has strict time limits, making it more suitable for temporary residents.

Buying a Car in Turkey: What You Need to Know

The process for a foreigner buying a car in Turkey is similar to that for a Turkish citizen, but with a few key differences, especially regarding tax exemptions.

Documents and Requirements:

Valid Residence Permit: You must have a valid residence permit (ikamet) or work permit. This is a fundamental requirement.
Tax ID Number: You will need a Turkish tax identification number (vergi numarası).
Passport: Your passport is required for all legal transactions.
Proof of Address: A document showing your registered address in Turkey.

The Tax-Free “MA/MZ” Plate System:

A significant advantage for foreign residents is the tax-free car scheme, often referred to as a “blue plate” or “MA/MZ” plate. This exemption applies to the Special Consumption Tax (ÖTV) and Value Added Tax (VAT), which make up a large portion of a vehicle’s price in Turkey.

Who is Eligible? This scheme is primarily for foreign diplomats, staff of international organizations, and retired foreigners who meet specific criteria.
Key Condition: The vehicle registered under this scheme can only be driven by the foreign individual whose name is on the registration. A Turkish citizen, including a spouse, cannot legally drive this car.
How to Buy a Tax-Free Car: You must purchase the vehicle from an authorized dealer and complete the tax-exempt registration process. When a foreigner buys a second-hand tax-free car, the transaction is often completed at a consulate.
Legal Restrictions: The right to use the tax-free vehicle is valid only for as long as your residence or work permit is active. When your permit expires, you must either sell the vehicle to another eligible foreigner or export it out of the country. A security deposit for the exempted taxes may be required.

Buying a Non-Exempt Vehicle (Second-Hand Car):

Foreigners can also buy regular, tax-paid cars. The process for a second-hand car involves a notarized sales transaction (noter satış senedi), which formally transfers ownership. You are responsible for ensuring all vehicle documents (registration, insurance, inspection) are in order and that there are no outstanding fines. An experienced İstanbul business lawyer can assist with these checks to prevent future legal complications.

Bringing Your Car from Abroad: The Rules and Limits

Importing a foreign-plated vehicle into Turkey is a temporary solution with strict rules enforced by the Turkish Customs Administration.

The 185-Day Rule: To be eligible to bring a foreign-plated car into Turkey, you must have resided outside of Turkey for at least 185 days in the last year. This rule is designed to ensure the scheme is used by temporary visitors or returning residents, not permanent residents.
Duration of Stay: Foreign residents with a valid residence permit can keep their foreign-plated vehicle in Turkey for up to 730 days (two years). This period cannot be extended unless you leave Turkey for more than 185 days and re-enter.
Required Documents for Customs:
- Original driver’s license and vehicle registration.
- Passport and valid residence permit.
- An international “Green Card” insurance policy or a valid Turkish insurance policy for the vehicle.
Penalties for Overstaying: Exceeding the 730-day limit can result in significant fines and the impoundment of your vehicle.

Key Legal & Financial Obligations for Vehicle Owners

Whether you buy a car in Turkey or bring one from abroad, you have ongoing responsibilities.

Annual Motor Vehicle Tax (MTV): All vehicle owners must pay this tax twice a year (in January and July). The amount is determined by the vehicle’s age, engine size, and value.
Compulsory Traffic Insurance: All vehicles must have a valid traffic insurance policy (zorunlu trafik sigortası).
Regular Vehicle Inspection (TÜVTÜRK): All vehicles must undergo a technical inspection every two years to ensure they are roadworthy.

SSS: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can my Turkish spouse drive my tax-free MA/MZ plate car?

A1: No. A car with an MA/MZ plate can only be driven by the foreigner it is registered to. Letting a Turkish citizen drive it is a serious violation of the law.

Q2: What happens to my tax-free car if I cancel my residency?

A2: You must either sell the car to another eligible foreigner or export it out of the country within a specified period (usually three months).

Q3: Is it better to buy a tax-free car or a regular car?

A3: This depends on your situation. A tax-free car is significantly cheaper to purchase but comes with strict usage rules and is difficult to sell. A regular car is more expensive but provides complete freedom of use and can be sold to anyone.

Q4: Can I bring a second-hand car from abroad?

A4: Yes, but only for temporary use under the 730-day rule. The import of used cars for permanent registration is generally not allowed, except in rare and complex cases.

Professional Legal Advice from an Expert

The rules governing vehicle ownership for foreigners in Turkey are complex and can change. For example, a lawyer specializing in İstanbul inheritance law might deal with cases where a foreigner inherits a vehicle. As an expert in these matters, my advice is to always seek professional guidance.

Verify Everything: Before you sign anything or pay a deposit, have a legal professional review all documents. A skilled İstanbul ceza avukatı or İstanbul real estate lawyer can help you avoid scams and ensure the vehicle’s title is clear of liens or legal issues.
Understand Your Obligations: The costs don’t end with the purchase. Be aware of the annual taxes, insurance, and maintenance fees.
Don’t Break the Rules: The penalties for violating customs regulations or misuse of tax-exempt plates are severe. It’s not worth the risk.

For any legal issues, including traffic violations, business transactions, or residency matters in Turkey, our firm is here to help.

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