Foreign nationals living in Türkiye frequently assume that they can freely order goods from abroad for personal use, as they do in many European countries or the United States. This assumption is incorrect and, as of 6 February 2026, it may lead to serious customs violations.
Following the amendments published in the Official Gazette, significant changes have been introduced to the Simplified Customs Declaration (BGB) regime. These changes directly affect individual shipments and have substantially restricted the ability of foreigners to order goods online from abroad.
This article aims to clarify the new rules and to prevent foreigners from unintentionally violating Turkish customs legislation.
Changes Introduced by the New Regulation
The amendments entering into force on 6 February 2026 reshape how personal shipments are treated under Turkish customs law.
Abolition of the 30 EUR Fixed-Tax Limit for Personal Shipments
Under the previous system, non-commercial personal shipments valued up to 30 EUR could be processed under a simplified fixed-tax procedure.
With the new regulation:
The 30 EUR fixed-tax limit for personal shipments has been completely abolished
This applies to almost all individual shipments
Low value no longer provides any legal protection
As a result, even small online orders sent by cargo or courier may now be rejected, detained, or subjected to full customs procedures.
Strictly Limited Exception for Food Supplements
Food supplements constitute a narrow and strictly regulated exception.
Personal imports of food supplements are only permitted if:
The shipment is addressed to an individual
It is supported by a medical board report or a doctor's prescription
The total value does not exceed 1,500 EUR
Any food supplement ordered online without proper medical documentation may be confiscated. General wellness products, repeated shipments, or discretionary online purchases are not protected by this exception.
Passenger-Accompanied Goods Are Treated Differently
A critical distinction must be clearly understood.
What is still permitted: Foreigners may bring personal belongings into Türkiye as passenger-accompanied goods when entering the country. These items must be:
Carried with the passenger
Reasonable in quantity
Consistent with personal use
The allowances and entry procedures for items carried by travelers are detailed in our Türkiye customs guide on passenger allowances and duty-free goods.
What is no longer advisable: Ordering goods online from abroad and having them shipped by:
Cargo companies
Courier services
Postal services
is legally distinct from passenger-accompanied goods and is now subject to significantly stricter scrutiny. Personal use claims do not automatically legitimize online orders.
Company Shipments Are Not a Reference for Individuals
Shipments addressed to legal entities remain subject to a different framework.
Fixed-tax processing for company shipments up to 22 EUR continues
This rule applies only to companies
Individuals cannot rely on company thresholds or practices
Foreigners frequently make the mistake of assuming that business shipment rules apply to private individuals. This assumption leads directly to customs enforcement actions.
Legal Risks for Foreign Nationals
Foreign residents are particularly exposed to risk because:
They rely on international e-commerce platforms
They apply habits from their home jurisdictions
They assume harmonization with EU customs practices
Turkish customs authorities apply domestic legislation strictly. A lack of awareness does not prevent penalties.
Potential consequences include:
Confiscation of goods
Administrative fines
Delays and investigations at customs
Increased scrutiny of future shipments
If you do receive a penalty, you may have grounds to challenge it, as explained in our guide on the objection and cancellation of administrative fines in Turkey.
Practical Legal Guidance for Foreigners in Türkiye
Foreign nationals residing in Türkiye should observe the following principles:
Avoid ordering goods online from abroad for personal use
Do not rely on low value or "personal use" arguments
Prefer local suppliers within Türkiye
Bring personal items only as passenger-accompanied goods
Seek legal advice before attempting any import
These precautions significantly reduce the risk of customs disputes. Travelers bringing valuables such as precious metals should also review the rules on bringing gold and precious metals to Türkiye.
Conclusion
As of 6 February 2026, ordering goods from abroad as an individual in Türkiye carries substantial legal risk. The regulatory environment has changed, and prior assumptions are no longer valid.
Foreign nationals should treat international online ordering as a legally sensitive matter and act with caution. Understanding the distinction between passenger-accompanied goods and shipped orders is essential to remaining compliant with Turkish customs law.
