In recent years, eSIMs have become the top choice for travelers staying connected abroad due to their convenience. However, the situation has recently changed for visitors heading to Turkey. The country has restricted access to certain international eSIM platforms. Below is a summary of the latest situation and advice on how to navigate it:
Turkey has recently blocked most international eSIM platforms. Pay attention before traveling!
To strengthen local telecommunications management, the Turkish government has implemented a block on several international eSIM platforms, which are currently inaccessible within the country through websites or apps. The block affects multiple major global eSIM providers, and the scope of the block may expand in the future.
This means:
- Once you arrive in Turkey, you may be unable to access most international eSIM platforms, making it impossible to place orders or download configuration profiles.
- If you haven't arrived in Turkey yet, please make sure to complete the purchase and installation of your eSIM in advance to ensure you can connect immediately upon arrival.
Note: This block only affects users who try to "purchase or download after arrival." eSIMs that have already been successfully activated will not be affected.
Can you still use eSIM in Turkey?
Yes, as long as you complete the purchase, download, and installation of the configuration file before departure, your eSIM will work just fine even after you arrive in Turkey.
This restriction mainly affects the "purchase/download channel," not the eSIM network itself.
So remember:
Purchase and installation completed in advance → eSIM will work as usual.
Trying to place an order after arrival → you may be unable to connect at all.
How to ensure network availability in Turkey?
It is recommended to take the following steps in advance:
- Complete eSIM purchase and installation before departure.
- Temporarily disable the eSIM after installing the profile to prevent early activation.
- Upon arrival in Turkey, turn on the eSIM, enable data roaming, and set it as the primary data card.
If you're already in Turkey but have no network access, your remaining options might be:
- Enable international roaming on your original SIM (higher cost).
- Purchase a local SIM card offline (requires a passport, slightly higher price, and a relatively complicated process).
Which platforms are blocked?
The known platforms currently restricted include (incomplete list):
- Airalo
- Holafly
- eSIM.me
- Nomad
- Dent Wireless
- Yesim, etc.
These platforms mainly operate through websites or apps. Once access is blocked, their related services will be unavailable.
(The specific list may change at any time; please refer to actual access situations.)
MicroEsim users are unaffected, can activate in advance, and use it upon departure
Compared to some restricted platforms, MicroEsim is currently accessible and available for purchase worldwide. Our eSIM supports advanced activation and flexible validity periods, so even if you plan to travel in the next week or month, you can prepare in advance without worrying about access restrictions in the destination.
Our platform supports multi-currency settlement, 24-hour customer service, and coverage on one of Turkey's three major networks. It offers the following advantages:
- No passport required, purchase and installation completed in 3 minutes.
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Supports both iOS and Android devices, ready to use by scanning the QR code.
- Provides services in both Chinese and English, eliminating language barriers.
Summary: Recommendations for Turkey's changing network environment
- Purchasing and installing your eSIM in advance is the most reliable way to deal with the restrictions.
- Do not expect to freely choose platforms or place orders after arrival.
- A pre-prepared eSIM not only saves time and money but also avoids the stress and anxiety at the start of your trip.
MicroEsim, helping you stay connected throughout your trip in Turkey!
If you have any information about Türkiye eSIM, please leave a message or share it with us.