Can You Vape in Turkey? A Comprehensive Guide for Vapers

Turkey, known for its scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a top destination for travelers. However, for those who enjoy vaping, understanding Turkey’s vaping laws is crucial to ensure a trouble-free experience during your visit. This guide will help you navigate the country's vaping rules and regulations, including whether you can vape in Turkey, bring vapes into the country, buy vaping products locally, and where you can legally vape.

Are Vapes Legal in Turkey?

Yes, vaping is legal in Turkey, but there are significant restrictions. While vaping is allowed in many places where smoking is permitted, Turkey has a strict policy on the sale, importation, and distribution of vaping products. Vapes and e-liquids are classified as tobacco products, which means the same laws that govern smoking also apply to vaping.

As of 2024, there are no legal provisions that allow the sale of e-cigarettes, e-liquids, or related accessories in Turkish retail outlets. In fact, Turkey has not approved any licenses for retailers to sell these products. This makes Turkey unique in its approach compared to other European countries, where vaping products are widely available in stores.

Can You Take Vapes to Turkey?

Yes, you can bring vapes into Turkey, but you must adhere to specific import regulations. According to Turkish customs laws, travelers are allowed to bring a limited number of vaping products for personal use. These limits are:

• One vaping device/battery per person

• Up to 30ml of e-liquids (cartridges or refill bottles) per person

• A maximum of 10 disposable vapes per person

It’s important to note that exceeding these limits could lead to confiscation of your products or fines. When bringing vaping products into Turkey, be sure to carry them in your hand luggage and declare them to customs upon arrival.

Can You Buy Vapes in Turkey?

As of 2024, purchasing vapes or e-liquids in Turkey is not possible through official retail channels. The sale of vaping products is prohibited, and no retailers have been granted licenses to sell these items. This is in line with Turkey’s 2020 Presidential Decree No. 2149, which banned the importation and sale of e-cigarettes and related products, treating them as tobacco products.

While it is unlikely you’ll be able to find vapes legally available for sale in stores, some travelers have reported finding small independent shops that may sell vaping products in Istanbul. However, these shops operate in a legal grey area, and buying from such locations can carry risks.

For those staying for extended periods, the personal use limit of 30ml of e-liquid may not be enough. In such cases, travelers might consider using nicotine salt e-liquids, which deliver a satisfying nicotine hit and could make the limited quantity last longer.

Vaping in Turkey: Where Can You Vape?

While vaping is allowed in Turkey, it is subject to several restrictions, similar to smoking laws. You are permitted to vape in open public spaces, private property, and designated smoking areas. Some hotel rooms may also allow vaping if smoking is permitted. However, there are places where vaping is strictly prohibited, including:

• Government buildings: Like most countries, vaping is banned in official government offices and facilities.

• Enclosed public spaces: This includes hospitals, schools, restaurants, and other indoor locations where smoking is not allowed.

• Public transport: Vaping is not allowed on buses, trams, taxis, or trains in Turkey.

• Children’s parks and playgrounds: Always stay at a sufficient distance from children’s play areas to avoid fines.

In contrast, vaping is allowed in designated smoking areas, some outdoor public spaces, and private property. If you’re unsure, always look for no-smoking signs, as they also apply to vaping.

Vaping in Turkish Airports

Vaping in Turkish airports is regulated similarly to other public spaces. While vaping inside the terminal buildings is prohibited, there are designated smoking/vaping areas. At major airports like Istanbul Airport, passengers can find several smoking terraces and balconies both before and after security. These areas provide ample space for travelers who wish to vape or smoke.

For example, at Istanbul Airport, there are 13 smoking terraces available, spread across the international and domestic terminals. These areas are well-signposted, so look for the designated zones when you want to use your vape device.

Vaping Regulations in Turkey

Turkey has specific regulations governing the use of vaping products. These are:

• Legal age: The legal age for vaping in Turkey is 19. So, if you’re 18, you will not be allowed to vape during your trip.

• Public use: Vaping is not allowed in indoor public spaces or public transport. Outdoor areas and private properties are usually fine, but be mindful of local rules.

• Clean air zones: Turkey enforces clean air laws, which means vaping is prohibited in places marked with a no-smoking sign, including certain parks, restaurants, and public buildings.

In terms of vaping products, Turkey treats e-cigarettes the same as traditional tobacco products. The importation ban means that you must bring any vape gear you need for personal use with you when traveling to Turkey.

Can You Bring Disposable Vapes to Turkey?

Yes, you can bring disposable vapes into Turkey. As long as you stay within the allowed limits (up to 10 disposable vapes per person), you should have no issues with customs. Disposable vapes are considered to be for "personal use," so they are not subject to the same restrictions as larger quantities that might be considered for resale.

Again, remember to declare these items at customs, and always stay within the allowed limits. If you bring more than 10 disposable vapes, you risk having them confiscated or receiving fines.

Conclusion: Vaping in Turkey

Turkey offers a unique set of rules for vaping, especially when compared to other European destinations. While vaping itself is legal, there are clear restrictions on what you can bring into the country, as well as where you can use your vape products. The lack of retail availability means that careful planning is essential if you're a vaper traveling to Turkey.

To ensure a smooth trip, make sure to bring enough supplies for your stay, stick to the import limits for personal use, and always respect local laws regarding where you can vape. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your vacation in Turkey without encountering any issues related to vaping.

FAQs

1. Can I vape in public places in Turkey?
Vaping is allowed in open public spaces, but it is prohibited in enclosed areas such as restaurants, shops, public transport, and government buildings.

2. How much e-liquid can I bring to Turkey?
You can bring up to 30ml of e-liquid for personal use. This includes cartridges, refill bottles, or disposable vapes.

3. Can I buy vaping products in Turkey?
No, as of 2024, it is not possible to legally buy vaping products in Turkey. You must bring your own vaping gear with you.

4. What happens if I exceed the personal use limit for vaping products?
If you exceed the personal use limit, your vaping products may be confiscated, and you could face fines.

5. Can I vape in Istanbul Airport?
Yes, there are designated smoking/vaping areas at Istanbul Airport, both before and after security.