Bringing your car to Turkey or North Cyprus: Essential info for UK Expats

Please note that all travel and customs regulations are subject to change at any time. We strongly suggest you check with the relevant local authorities such as the Turkish Ministry of Trade or the North Cyprus Customs and Revenue Department for the latest legal information before you begin your journey.

For many in our community, the idea of driving your own car from the UK back to Turkey or across to North Cyprus is a significant part of the journey home. Having your own vehicle provides a level of comfort and freedom that is hard to match, especially for long summer visits or when you are carrying plenty of luggage and gifts for family. However, the legal requirements for bringing a foreign registered vehicle into these regions are strict and must be followed precisely to avoid complications at the border.

The 185 Day Residency Requirement

The most fundamental rule for bringing a UK registered car into Turkey is the residency condition. To be eligible, the person bringing the vehicle must have been physically resident outside of Turkey for at least 185 days within the last 12 months. This is a non negotiable rule that customs officials check against your passport and entry records. It does not matter if you are a Turkish citizen or hold a Blue Card; the system will count every day you have spent in Turkey over the previous year. If you have spent more than 180 days in Turkey in that window, the vehicle will likely be refused entry. It is vital to verify your own dates using the official e-Devlet portal or your travel records before you set off.

Duration of Stay and Driving Restrictions

Under current regulations, a vehicle brought in by a qualifying expat can typically remain in Turkey for up to 730 days. However, the laws regarding who can drive the car are very narrow. Generally, only the person who imported the car, their spouse, or their parents and children are permitted to drive it, and even then, those family members must also be residents of the UK or another foreign country. It is strictly prohibited for a relative who lives in Turkey to drive the vehicle. If the authorities find an unauthorised person behind the wheel, the penalties can include very heavy fines or the seizure of the car. Additionally, if you plan to fly out of Turkey while leaving your car behind, you must notify the customs office and leave the vehicle in a supervised customs car park or provide an official undertaking through the e-Devlet system.

Specific Considerations for North Cyprus

If you are continuing your journey to North Cyprus, there are additional factors to consider. A major benefit for those coming from the UK is that North Cyprus drives on the left, making your right hand drive vehicle perfectly suited for the local roads. To reach the island, you will need to use the ferry services from ports like Tasucu or Mersin. You should be aware that the customs rules in North Cyprus are separate from those in Turkey. While temporary entry is permitted for visitors, there are often strict age limits on vehicles being brought in for longer periods, generally restricting cars to those under five years old. You will also need to arrange separate insurance at the port of entry, as most UK policies and even Turkish Green Cards may not provide the necessary coverage for the northern part of the island.

Documentation and Insurance

Before you leave the UK, you must ensure you have all your original documents. This includes your V5C logbook, a valid UK driving licence, and a Green Card from your insurer that explicitly mentions Turkey and specifies coverage for both the European and Asian sides. Border officials will require original physical documents rather than digital copies. If the vehicle is not in your name, you will need a notarised power of attorney giving you permission to take the car across international borders.

Every journey is different, and while we can help you with your personal travel bookings, the legal compliance of your vehicle is entirely your responsibility. Being well informed is the only way to ensure a smooth arrival.

Please remember that these regulations are subject to change and we strongly suggest you check with the relevant local authorities for the latest legal information before you travel.