Turkey (Türkiye), with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a top destination for international travelers. But as you plan your Turkish adventure, it's crucial to understand the ins and outs of roaming charges to avoid unexpected costs. Let's dive into the world of roaming in Turkey and explore how you can stay connected.

Are There Roaming Charges in Turkey?

Yes, roaming charges do apply in Turkey for most international travelers. When you use your home network's SIM card in Turkey, you're essentially borrowing the services of a local Turkish network. This convenience comes at a price, as your home network typically charges a premium for this service. These charges can quickly add up, especially if you're streaming videos, using maps, or making frequent calls back home. It's important to check with your home network provider about their specific roaming rates for Turkey before you travel.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Turkey?

Roaming charges kick in as soon as your phone connects to a Turkish network. This happens automatically when you land in Turkey and turn on your phone, unless you've disabled data roaming. These charges apply to all cellular services - calls, texts, and data usage. Even if you're not actively using your phone, background apps that sync data can incur charges. Be particularly careful with data-heavy activities like video calls or streaming, as these can rapidly consume your data allowance and lead to hefty bills.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Turkey

If you do decide to use your home network in Turkey, it's crucial to understand the potential costs.

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for Turkey:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Orange: [4]

Orange Holiday Turkey package limited to 14 days for €29.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [5]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €1.82 per minute + €1.21 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.21 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €1.82 per minute + €1.21 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [6]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Only Data Packs: 10GB for 24.99 or 20GB for 34.99 (valid for 31 days)

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 20 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $2.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

Remember, these are general estimates and can vary significantly depending on your home network's agreements with Turkish providers. Always check with your specific carrier for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Turkey

You can read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more detailed information.

• Use an eSIM: Choose an eSIM provider like Roamless and activate before landing for instant local rates.

• Get a Turkish SIM: Grab a prepaid card from local providers at the airport.

• Connect to Wi-Fi: Take advantage of free hotspots in cafes and hotels.

• Go offline: Download maps and content before your trip.

Roamless eSIM for Turkey

Roamless eSIM combines cutting-edge technology with traveler-friendly features, ensuring you stay connected without the usual roaming headaches. It's the smart choice for modern travelers who want to focus on their journey, not their phone plan.

• Digital SIM solution: Say goodbye to physical SIM swapping. Our eSIM technology integrates seamlessly with your device for instant connectivity.

• Unthrottled, local network speeds: Enjoy the same swift data speeds as local users, perfect for streaming, working, or sharing your adventures in real-time.

• Global coverage, no country restrictions: One solution for all your travels. No need to juggle multiple country-specific plans or worry about crossing borders.

• Pay-as-you-go flexibility: Only pay for what you use. Our flexible pricing puts you in control of your connectivity costs.

• Never-expiring funds: Your purchased data doesn't have an expiration date. Use it on this trip or save it for your next adventure - it's always there when you need it.

• Easy activation: Set up your eSIM before you even leave home. Hit the ground running with immediate connectivity upon arrival.

Check our eSIM for Turkey page before planning your travel. You can also read our guide on the best eSIM for Turkey for more information.

By understanding roaming charges and exploring alternatives like the Roamless eSIM, you can ensure that your Turkish adventure is memorable for all the right reasons - not because of an eye-watering phone bill. Stay connected, share your experiences, and enjoy all that Turkey has to offer without the roaming headache.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/turkeyandnortherncyprus

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/turkey

[5] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Turquía

[6] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass