Leaving Turkey
 

Hello - Seeking Help on this issue.

I left my motorcycle in Adana, Turkey safely stored in a motorcycle shop the first of March. I had been in Turkey for 9 weeks. I left because of the escalation of Russian's invasion of the Ukraine and some threats I considered serious. My plan is to return in March of 1923 as I have business and issues to take care of in the States. I'm hearing that I may have issues getting my bike out having left it there too long. Can anyone help with information in this regard.

Morgan1690

The Turkish Republic was founded in October 1923 so returning in March 1923 will put you in a grey area regards import.

But seriously, yes you will have problems. I believe your vehicle is allowed to stay in Turkey for 90 days. There may be a mark in your passport stating the validity of temporary import.

Additionally, you should notify customs when you leave Turkey without your vehicle to avoid being liable for import duties.

Either way, you are looking at a stiff fine when you come to export your vehicle.

EO

I'm afraid you might run into trouble. I've had my share of stress with Turkish customs and border control even without doing anything wrong. But your bike is already over the limit so you're facing a hefty fine.

I have a friend who had to pay that fine upon re-entry of Turkey, before even doing anything with the bike he had left behind. If you're unlucky you will have to pay multiple fines, i.e. for not informing customs that you're leaving the country without the bike as well as overstaying the bike (not sure how much that fine increases with duration of overstay).

Cheers,
Benjamin