Turkey's Tax-Free Electronics Proposal for Students 2025
Students in Turkey Could Buy iPhones and Electronics Tax-Free Under New Proposal
ANKARA, December 2025 – The Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) is reviewing a historic bill that could make electronics significantly more affordable for university students. If approved, students will be able to purchase smartphones, tablets, computers, and gaming consoles without paying the Special Consumption Tax (ÖTV).
Key Update: Students could buy not only locally made devices but also imported products, including iPhones, Samsung phones, and PlayStation consoles — with no current price cap of 9,500 TL.
What Changes?
- Current system: Tax breaks only on locally manufactured products, limited to specific brands, with a maximum price cap of 9,500 TL.
- Proposed law: Tax exemptions apply to all electronic devices, with no price limits, and the full range of international brands available.
- Condition: Purchased devices must be registered and used by the student for at least 2 years to prevent resale.
"This proposal represents a significant shift in educational support policy. By removing the financial barrier to essential technology, we are investing directly in our students' academic success and digital future. It's a forward-thinking measure that aligns with global educational standards," stated a member of the parliamentary education committee.
Example Estimated Prices & Savings (Without ÖTV)
- iPhone 17 Pro: 71,999 TL (savings approx. 36,000 TL)
- iPhone 17: 51,999 TL (savings approx. 26,000 TL)
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: 62,332 TL (savings approx. 31,167 TL)
- PlayStation 5 Pro: 49,999 TL (savings approx. 10,000 TL)
Who Can Benefit?
- Bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students enrolled in accredited Turkish universities.
- Both Turkish citizens and international students with valid student residence permits and active enrollment status.
- Students must present valid university enrollment documents and identification at the point of purchase.
Next Steps & Timeline
The bill is currently under review by the parliamentary Planning and Budget Committee. If approved, it will proceed to a general assembly vote. The legislation is targeted to come into effect for the start of the 2026-2027 academic year.
Potential Impact
Economic and educational experts project the proposal could:
- Reduce technology acquisition costs for students by 30–40% on major devices.
- Boost digital literacy and equitable access to modern educational tools.
- Stimulate the consumer electronics market while supporting educational outcomes.
- Encourage the use of licensed software and legitimate digital resources for academic work.
Important Disclaimer: This proposal is still under legislative review. Final benefits, eligible device lists, application procedures, and pricing are subject to change based on the approved law and subsequent regulations.
This initiative marks a potential major step in reducing the digital divide in higher education and supporting Turkey's student population with the tools needed for modern academic and professional success.
