Understanding the 30 Euro Limit for Imports to Turkey

When ordering goods from abroad for delivery to Turkey, it’s crucial to understand the customs regulations, particularly the 30 euro limit. This threshold significantly impacts whether you’ll need to pay import taxes and how your package will be processed. This article clarifies the regulations surrounding the 30 euro limit for goods imported to Turkey via postal or express courier services.

What is the 30 Euro Limit?

The 30 euro limit refers to the value of goods imported to Turkey via mail or express courier that are exempt from detailed customs declaration and formal import procedures. If the value of your shipment is 30 euros or less, a simplified process applies, often involving a flat tax rate depending on the origin country.

How Does the 30 Euro Limit Work?

For shipments valued at 30 euros or less per shipment, a fixed tax rate is applied based on the country of origin:

• European Union: 30%
• Other Countries: 60%
• Books and Similar Publications: 0%
• Excise Duty Goods (as listed in Law No. 4760): An additional 20% on top of the above rates.

This simplified process avoids complex customs procedures, making it easier to receive low-value goods. However, several conditions must be met:

• Goods must be shipped via postal service or express courier.
• Goods must be for personal use and not for commercial purposes.
• Shipments must not exceed 30 kilograms in gross weight (excluding diplomatic and passenger baggage).

What Happens if the Value Exceeds 30 Euros?

If the value of your shipment exceeds 30 euros but remains below 1500 euros, a detailed customs declaration is required. Express courier operators can typically handle this process on your behalf, but you will be responsible for paying import taxes and any associated fees. Above 1500 euros, standard import regulations and tariffs apply.

Are There Any Exemptions to the 30 Euro Limit?

Certain goods are exempt from the 30 euro limit and require specific procedures or documentation, regardless of value. These include:

• Mobile Phones: Not permitted via mail or express courier, even with taxes paid. Exceptions apply for registered phones temporarily taken abroad and returned within specific timeframes.
• Cosmetics: Prohibited for import via mail or express courier.
• Food Supplements/Sports Nutrition Products: Generally prohibited. Exceptions apply with a doctor’s prescription and supporting documentation, or for national athletes with official documentation.
• Tobacco and Alcohol Products: Only allowed within specific limits for accompanying passengers.

Personal Belongings Exemption

Personal belongings are exempt from the 30 euro and 30 kilogram limits and are not subject to import taxes. This applies to belongings brought with you or shipped separately within one month before or three months after your arrival in Turkey. You will need to provide your passport as proof of travel dates.

Shipping Costs and Taxes

Shipping costs to the Turkish port of entry are included in the calculation of the shipment’s value for tax purposes. If the shipping cost is not explicitly listed on the invoice, a flat rate of 3 euros is added.

Monthly Limit on Shipments

The simplified process for shipments under 30 euros is limited to five shipments per person per calendar month.