Türkiye to Cut Off Unregistered Phones from May 1
Türkiye to Disconnect Unregistered Dual-SIM Phones from May 1
In Türkiye, the deadline is approaching after which thousands of mobile devices may be disconnected from cellular networks. Starting from May 1, unregistered phones, including devices with dual-SIM and eSIM support, will lose access to mobile services and internet connectivity.
The measure is part of a nationwide effort to strengthen IMEI regulation and combat violations related to smartphone import and registration.
Reason for the Restrictions
The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) stated that the new rules aim to prevent illegal device registration and curb the informal import of smartphones.
According to authorities, some users attempted to bypass regulations by using dual-SIM and eSIM features to assign different IMEI codes across multiple devices.
Authorities emphasize that the reform is designed to strengthen control over device imports and eliminate loopholes in registration systems.
Registration Fee and Requirements
To legalize a device, mandatory registration is required, with a fee of 54,258 Turkish lira (approximately $1,212) .
Under current regulations, an individual is allowed to register only one imported phone under their passport every three years.
BTK Monitoring and Inspections
Since January 1, 2026, BTK has been monitoring suspicious IMEI-related activity, identifying numerous cases of irregularities and unauthorized usage.
- Inspection of IMEI numbers on imported devices
- Detection of unauthorized registrations
- Monitoring dual-SIM and eSIM usage patterns
Users whose devices were flagged received SMS notifications and were granted a 120-day grace period during which their phones remained operational.
What Will Happen After May 1
After the transition period ends, all unregistered devices will be completely disconnected from mobile networks across Türkiye.
After May 1, these devices will no longer be able to access voice calls or mobile data services.
Purpose of the New Measures
Turkish authorities state that the initiative aims to reduce tax losses, strengthen import control, and eliminate illegal smartphone usage schemes involving IMEI manipulation.
Additionally, the regulations are expected to improve transparency in the mobile device market and reduce illegal imports of smartphones.
