Europe

Why Most eSIMs Got Banned in Turkey — and Does GigSky Still Work?

July 17, 2025

Amira Bula

If Türkiye is on your 2025 bucket list, and you're someone who likes to set up your phone before takeoff, you'll want to read this.

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Because recently, something unusual happened: The Turkey eSIM ban affected several popular eSIM services that stopped working in Türkiye.

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Travelers started noticing their eSIMs wouldn't connect after landing. Some couldn't activate their plans. Others lost signal mid-trip, experiencing eSIM not working in Turkey issues.

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And if you've been checking Reddit or TikTok lately, you've probably seen the confusion around why is eSIM banned in Turkey.

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But here's the good news: Not every eSIM provider was affected by the eSIM ban in Turkey.

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Why Some eSIMs Were Blocked in Türkiye

Türkiye's telecom regulator, the ICTA (Information and Communication Technologies Authority), recently began enforcing new rules around eSIM providers, leading to the Turkey eSIM ban on certain services.

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The goal? To make sure mobile services are operating through authorized networks and meeting national security and compliance standards, including Turkey eSIM restrictions.

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That led to activation issues, connection drops, or full service blocks in Türkiye, causing many travelers to experience eSIM not working in Turkey.

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Several popular eSIM brands were affected by the Turkey eSIM ban, including:

Holafly
Airalo
GigSky
Saily
Nomad
Instabridge
Mobimatter
Alosim
BNESIM

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Is eSIM allowed in Turkey? Yes, eSIMs work in Turkey if you purchase them before arriving at your destination. You’ll have a smooth experience with no issues. However, if you wait to buy one after you arrive, you may run into problems with both app downloads and website access.

Does GigSky Still Work in Turkey?

Yes, GigSky still works in Turkey, but with one important condition: you need to purchase your eSIM before arriving.

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As a licensed mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), GigSky partners directly with local carriers around the world. That means as soon as you land in Turkey, your phone connects automatically, no manual settings required.

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This direct integration is what sets GigSky apart. They operate under national regulations and don’t rely on third-party resellers or unofficial workarounds.

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But there’s one thing you need to keep in mind: because of the Turkey ban, access to the GigSky app and website is limited once you’re in the country, unless you’re using a VPN. So make sure to buy enough data before your trip to avoid issues after arrival.

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GigSky’s reliability in Turkey isn’t by chance, they’ve been building toward this for years. Back when Apple launched the first eSIM-compatible iPhone (the iPhone XS), Apple invited GigSky to help shape the eSIM ecosystem.

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Today, they offer seamless, compliant connectivity in over 200 countries, including Turkey.

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So whether you’re landing in Istanbul or floating above Cappadocia in a hot air balloon, your GigSky eSIM connects smoothly, without surprises.

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What Travelers Are Doing Differently Now

Let's be honest: No one wants to troubleshoot data issues while trying to find their Airbnb or order a rideshare.

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That's why travelers are now becoming more selective about which eSIM they use, especially for destinations like Türkiye. They're checking whether a provider works directly with local carriers, and whether the setup process is simple and dependable. Many are asking can tourists use eSIM in Turkey and looking for reliable eSIM alternatives in Turkey.

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With GigSky, here's what that experience looks like:

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One eSIM you install once and reuse on future trips
No QR codes or repeated setups, just tap and go
Automatic connection to local networks as soon as you land

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It's a quiet kind of convenience. But once you've used it, you won't want to go back.

GigSky Türkiye Plan Prices [as of July 2025]

Here's what you can expect to pay for a GigSky eSIM in Türkiye:

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1 GB (valid for 7 days): $4.99
3 GB (valid for 15 days): $5.59
5 GB (valid for 30 days): $9.09
10 GB (valid for 30 days): $14.69
Unlimited data (valid for 30 days): $52.49

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There are no contracts, no surprise fees, and no requirement to visit a local store. Just choose your plan, activate it in the app, and enjoy.

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You can activate your plan before your trip. Your eSIM doesn't expire until you use it, up to 12 months after purchase.

A Few Things to Know About the GigSky Experience

Travelers often say GigSky feels easier. Here's why:

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First, you don't need to scan a QR code or install a new eSIM for every destination. You get one reusable eSIM profile that works across over 200 countries, including Türkiye - perfect for using eSIM while roaming in Turkey.

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Second, GigSky offers in-app activation and automatic network switching, so you don't need to toggle settings or troubleshoot anything.

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And if you have a Visa Infinite or Signature card from the U.S., Canada, Colombia, Peru, or Ecuador, you could be eligible for 1–3GB of free data in Türkiye and other supported destinations. Just check your eligibility in the app.

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Need support while you travel? The GigSky team is available 24/7 through chat and email, ready to help if something doesn't feel right.

Planning to explore beyond Türkiye? You're covered there, too.

Many travelers today are building multi-country itineraries, hopping between Europe and cruise routes.

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GigSky makes it simple to stay connected across the map. If you buy a Europe plan, Türkiye is included, along with 42 other European countries.

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That means one plan can keep you online from Lisbon to Istanbul, no switching required - ideal for roaming in Turkey with international eSIM.

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And if your travels take you beyond land, GigSky is one of the few providers offering coverage at sea, with support on over 200 cruise ships and land coverage in 200+ destinations.

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So whether you're headed to a quiet village in Italy or setting sail in the Aegean, you can rely on GigSky to keep you connected, no matter where your trip takes you.

Stay Connected in Turkey with GigSky [Quick Recap]

Traveling is unpredictable enough. Your data plan shouldn't be. For those wondering how to stay connected in Turkey without eSIM complications, GigSky provides the solution.

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With GigSky, you get:

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Service that works in Türkiye, even when others don't
A reusable eSIM you install once and use again and again
Local connectivity that complies with national regulations
Clear pricing, no hidden fees, and instant activation

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So if you're heading to Türkiye soon, or anywhere else on your list, download the GigSky App before your flight.

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It's the one thing you won't have to worry about after you land.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Turkey eSIM Ban

Is eSIM banned in Turkey right now?

No, eSIMs aren't completely banned. The Turkey eSIM ban only affects travelers who buy a plan after arriving in the country. If you purchase it before arrival, you’re good to go.

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Are there any legal workarounds for using eSIM in Turkey?

Yes, use licensed MVNO providers like GigSky that comply with Turkish regulations. They partner directly with local carriers and meet national security requirements for legal operation.

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