One SIM Card per Foreigner: New Regulations in Turkey
The Turkish authorities are preparing legislative changes that will affect the use of ATMs and the registration of SIM cards for foreign citizens. These measures are part of the judicial reform plan for 2025–2029. According to security expert Mustafa Böğürcü, special procedures will be introduced for tourists and temporary residents to minimize any potential inconvenience.
The proposed amendments will first be reviewed by the parliamentary commission on justice before being submitted to the General Assembly for discussion. A transition period is expected to allow financial institutions to adapt to the new regulations.
The key changes include:
✅ Biometric identification at ATMs – cash withdrawals will require facial recognition or scanning a passport with an embedded chip.
✅ SIM card limitation – each foreign citizen will be allowed to register only one mobile number.
✅ Verification of passport data with international databases – aimed at preventing fraudulent activities.
Mustafa Böğürcü emphasized that tourists will have access to a simplified identification process, such as scanning their passport at an ATM with automatic identity verification. This approach will help prevent delays and ensure a smooth experience for visitors.
The reform is designed to strengthen efforts against financial crimes and enhance trust in the judicial system. Additionally, banks and payment services will be required to request chip-enabled IDs when opening accounts, making it more difficult for illegal migrants to access financial services.
