Customs Procedures for Vehicle Import

Guidance on navigating customs requirements for importing vehicles

Importing a vehicle into Turkey requires adherence to specific customs procedures to ensure compliance with national regulations.

Here's a comprehensive guide to navigating these requirements:

1. Documentation Requirements:

To initiate the import process, gather the following essential documents:

• Commercial Invoice: This should detail the vehicle's description, quantity, unit cost, Harmonized System (HS) code, delivery method, and country of origin.
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill: Depending on the mode of transport, this document serves as evidence of the contract of carriage and receipt of goods.
• Packing List: Provides information on the contents, packaging method, and weight/volume of the shipment.
• Certificate of Origin: Certifies the country where the vehicle was manufactured. This document may need notarization or certification by a local Chamber of Commerce or Turkish consulate.

2. Customs Declaration:

Upon the vehicle's arrival in Turkey:

• Submission: Present all required documentation to Turkish customs authorities.
• Inspection: The vehicle will undergo a customs inspection to verify compliance with Turkish standards, including emissions and safety regulations.
• Declaration Form: Complete a customs declaration form detailing the vehicle's specifics, such as make, model, and value. This can often be done in advance online through Turkey’s e-government portal (E-Devlet) to expedite the process.E-Devlet) üzerinden önceden yapılabilir.

3. Customs Duties and Taxes:

Importing a vehicle into Turkey is subject to various taxes and duties:

• Customs Duty: Calculated based on the vehicle's value, age, engine size, and other factors.
• Value-Added Tax (VAT): Applied to the vehicle's customs value plus any applicable duties.
• Special Consumption Tax (SCT): Rates vary depending on the vehicle's engine size and type.

It's essential to consult the latest tax rates and regulations, as they can change periodically.

4. Temporary Importation:

For individuals planning a short-term stay:

• Eligibility: You must have resided outside Turkey for at least 185 days in the previous 12 months to qualify for temporary vehicle importation. 185 gün Türkiye dışında ikamet etmiş olmalısınız.
• Duration: Vehicles can remain in Turkey for up to 730 days (2 years) under a temporary import permit.
• Restrictions: The temporarily imported vehicle cannot be rented, lent, or used by individuals other than the permit holder.

Additional Considerations:

• Age and Condition Restrictions: Turkey may restrict the import of vehicles over a certain age or with high mileage. Generally, cars over three years old or with more than 100,000 kilometers on the odometer are not allowed to be imported.
• Insurance: Secure insurance coverage that is valid in Turkey to ensure legal compliance on Turkish roads.
• Compliance with Technical Standards: Ensure the vehicle meets Turkish technical and safety standards to avoid complications during the inspection process.

Conclusion:

Navigating the customs procedures for vehicle importation into Turkey requires meticulous preparation and adherence to the outlined regulations. By ensuring all documentation is accurate and up-to-date, understanding the applicable taxes and duties,and staying informed about recent regulatory changes, you can facilitate a smooth importation process. Consulting with customs brokerage firms or legal experts specializing in Turkish import regulations is advisable to ensure full compliance and address any complexities that may arise.