Turkey’s Information Technology and Communications Authority (BTK) tightens control over foreign subscriber identification. Operators re-verify customer data, especially those who issued a SIM card with a passport or residence permit several years ago.
The goal is to reduce the number of numbers with outdated or unconfirmed data.
Many people think: “The number works – everything is fine”.
In practice, the operator can restrict outgoing calls, SMS or mobile Internet, if the data of the owner is not confirmed. And it doesn't just affect the connection.
What might stop working:
• Enter the Internet Bank by SMS code
• confirmation of transactions in Ziraat, İş Bankası, Garanti, Yapı Kredi and other banks
• Access to e-Devlet
• Receiving codes for the migration service
• Authorization in public services
Is it true that the deadline is July 25, 2026??
There is no official statement by BTK on a single deadline for all foreigners. Different operators indicate different dates in SMS. Therefore, you need to focus on the message that came to your number.
What needs to be done?
1️ Open SMS from the operator.
2️ Check if there are words: kimlik doğrulama, abonelik güncelleme, veri güncelleme.
3️ Prepare your passport and ikamet.
4️ If necessary, update data through the operator’s office or e-Devlet.
Usually the procedure takes 10-20 minutes.
SIM and IMEI are different things. Even if your number is confirmed, a foreign phone can still be locked after 120 days without registering an IMEI and paying a state fee. These procedures do not replace each other.