Vaping in Turkey is a topic that confuses many travelers and vapers. While smoking laws in Turkey allow traditional tobacco use in designated areas, vape regulations in Turkey are much stricter. The sale of vaping products is officially banned, making it difficult to find vape shops in Turkey.
Despite the Turkey vape ban, many tourists and residents still use e-cigarettes in Turkey, leading to a growing underground market. However, strict vaping restrictions in Turkey mean that buying vapes locally can be challenging. For those planning a trip, it’s essential to know the rules to avoid legal trouble.
Whether you’re a tourist or a resident, understanding Turkish vaping laws is important to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Legality of Vaping in Turkey
Many travelers wonder, “Is vaping legal in Turkey?” The short answer is yes, but under strict regulations. While you can use vapes in Turkey, the country has some of the toughest rules on vaping products, making it difficult to buy or sell them legally.
Vaping Laws in Turkey
The Turkish government treats e-cigarettes the same as traditional tobacco products. This means they are subject to Law No. 4207, Article 2(1), which strictly regulates smoking and vaping. According to this law:
- The sale and import of vaping products are banned, except for personal use.
- The Turkish Ministry of Health has classified vapes, e-liquids, and disposable vapes as tobacco products, making them subject to strict regulations.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has influenced Turkey’s stance, as the country follows global tobacco control measures, leading to a complete ban on vape sales.
Public Vaping Rules
If you’re visiting Turkey, it’s important to know where you can and cannot vape:
✔️ Vaping is allowed in open public spaces where smoking is permitted.
✔️ You can vape in designated smoking areas, such as those found in some parks, hotel balconies, and outdoor café sections.
❌ Vaping indoors is banned, including in restaurants, shopping malls, public transport, schools, hospitals, and airports.
❌ There are no official vape-friendly places in Turkey, meaning you won’t find vape lounges or dedicated vaping areas like in some other countries.
Vaping in Istanbul and Other Cities
Vaping rules can slightly vary by location, but the general restrictions apply across Turkey. In Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya, authorities strictly enforce vaping laws, and you may be fined for vaping in non-smoking areas. While some people discreetly use vapes in public, it’s best to follow the rules and vape only in designated smoking zones.
Can You Buy Vapes in Turkey?
One of the biggest questions vapers ask is, “Can you buy vapes in Turkey?” The simple answer is no, at least not legally. Due to Presidential Decree No. 2149, the sale of vapes, e-liquids, and disposable vapes is completely banned in Turkey. This means there are no licensed vape shops operating legally in the country.
Buying Vapes in Turkey: Is It Possible?
While the government has outlawed vape sales, some people still manage to find e-cigarettes in Turkey through unregulated sources. In major cities like Istanbul, a few underground markets operate in a legal gray area. However, these sellers are not licensed, and their products lack quality control.
Where to Buy Vapes in Turkey Unofficially?
Tourists and locals have reported finding vape products in Istanbul, particularly in:
📍 Beşiktaş – Known for various small tobacco shops, some of which may sell disposable vapes or e-liquids.
📍 Esenyurt – A district where some street vendors and shops offer unverified vape products.
📍 Beyoğlu – This area, including Taksim Square, has been mentioned by travelers as a spot where vapes can sometimes be found.
However, these sources are not regulated, and there’s no guarantee of product safety or authenticity.
Risks of Buying from the Black Market
Purchasing vapes in Turkey from unofficial sellers comes with several risks:
⚠️ Fake or low-quality products – Many black market vapes are counterfeit and may contain harmful substances.
⚠️ No consumer protection – If your vape malfunctions or is unsafe, there’s no legal recourse.
⚠️ Possible legal trouble – While buying for personal use is generally overlooked, authorities can confiscate illegal vape products if found.
Final Verdict: No Official Vape Shops in Turkey
As of 2024, there are no legal vape shops in Turkey. If you’re traveling and need a vape in Turkey, it’s best to bring your own within the legal import limits rather than risk buying from unverified sellers.
Importing Vapes to Turkey: What Are the Rules?
If you’re traveling to Turkey, you might be wondering, “Can I bring my vape to Turkey?” The answer is yes, but there are strict import restrictions that you must follow. While the sale of vapes in Turkey is banned, the import of vapes for personal use is allowed under specific rules set by the Turkish Customs Authority.
Importing Vapes for Personal Use: Allowed But Limited
Travelers entering Turkey can bring vapes, but there are strict limits on how many devices and e-liquids they can carry:
✔️ One vape device or battery per person
✔️ Up to 30ml of e-liquid per traveler
✔️ A maximum of 10 disposable vapes
Exceeding these limits can result in confiscation or fines at customs. To avoid any trouble, it’s important to declare your vaping products upon arrival.
Turkish Customs Vaping Rules
The Turkish Customs Authority enforces strict regulations on imported vapes. If you’re bringing e-cigarettes in Turkey, keep these rules in mind:
⚠️ All vaping products must be declared at customs – Failing to do so may lead to penalties or confiscation.
⚠️ Fines for exceeding import limits – Bringing more than the allowed vape devices or e-liquids could result in extra fees or seizure of the items.
⚠️ Keep the original packaging – If asked, having your vape, pods, and e-liquids in their original boxes helps prove they are for personal use.
Duty-Free Vape Purchases in Turkey: Not an Option
Unlike many other countries, Turkish airports do not sell vapes or e-liquids in duty-free stores. If you’re flying through Istanbul Airport or Antalya Airport, don’t expect to find vaping products there. Tourists should bring enough supplies for their trip, as buying vapes in Turkey is not a legal option.
Final Tip: Plan Ahead
Since buying vapes in Turkey is difficult, the best approach is to follow the import limits and bring your own vape supplies. Always check the latest Turkish vaping laws before traveling to avoid any issues at customs.
Vaping at Turkish Airports and Public Places
If you’re traveling to Turkey, you might wonder, “Can I vape at Turkish airports or in public places?” The answer is yes, but only in specific areas. Turkey has strict vaping laws, and using e-cigarettes in Turkey is heavily regulated, especially in airports and public spaces.
Vaping in Turkish Airports
If you have a layover or are arriving in Turkey, it’s important to know the vape rules at Turkish airports:
🛫 Istanbul Airport – Vaping inside the terminal is prohibited, but there are designated smoking areas outside.
🛬 Antalya Airport & Dalaman Airport – Similar to Istanbul Airport, vaping is not allowed indoors, but you can use vapes in outdoor smoking zones.
Many travelers report that airport staff strictly enforce vaping restrictions, so it’s best to use designated areas and avoid vaping inside.
Public Vaping Restrictions in Turkey
Turkey’s vaping laws follow similar restrictions to traditional smoking laws under Law No. 4207, Article 2(1). This means that vaping is banned in most public spaces, including:
❌ Public transport – No vaping on buses, trains, or taxis.
❌ Restaurants and cafes – Indoor vaping is strictly forbidden.
❌ Schools and hospitals – Using e-cigarettes in these areas can lead to fines or confiscation.
However, vaping is allowed in private properties and designated smoking areas. In Istanbul and other cities, some hotels and hostels may allow vaping on balconies or private rooms, but it’s always best to ask before using your vape.
Final Tip: Follow Local Rules
If you’re visiting Turkey and want to use your vape, stick to outdoor smoking zones and private areas. Since public vaping is restricted, being cautious will help you avoid any legal trouble or fines.
What Should Tourists Do? (Practical Advice for Travelers)
For tourists who vape and plan to visit Turkey, careful planning is essential. Since buying vapes in Turkey is nearly impossible, travelers should bring everything they need while following Turkish vaping laws and customs regulations. Here are some key tips to ensure a smooth experience.
1. Bring Enough Vape Supplies
Since licensed vape shops do not exist in Turkey, tourists should pack enough supplies for their trip, including:
✔️ Vape device or battery (Only one per person is allowed by Turkish Customs).
✔️ E-liquids (Up to 30ml per traveler is permitted).
✔️ Disposable vapes (Maximum of 10 per person).
💡 Tip: Keep your vape and e-liquids in original packaging to avoid issues at customs checkpoints.
2. Use Nicotine Salt E-Liquids
Since vape supplies are limited, travelers can use nicotine salt e-liquids to make their stock last longer. Nicotine salts provide a stronger hit with smaller amounts of liquid, making them a great option for travelers who need to stretch their supply.
3. Check Airline Policies Before Traveling
Not all airlines have the same rules for carrying vapes. Before flying to Turkey, check the airline’s vape policy to avoid unexpected problems.
✈️ Turkish Airlines – Allows vapes in carry-on bags but prohibits use onboard.
✈️ Pegasus Airlines – Similar to Turkish Airlines, vapes must be in hand luggage.
✈️ Ryanair & easyJet – Both airlines allow vapes in carry-ons, but passengers cannot charge or use them during the flight.
💡 Tip: Always keep vape devices and batteries in your carry-on luggage, as airlines ban them from checked baggage for safety reasons.
4. Avoid Black Market Vapes
Some tourists report finding vape products in Istanbul’s underground markets in areas like Beşiktaş, Esenyurt, and Beyoğlu. However, buying vapes in Turkey through unverified sources carries serious risks:
⚠️ Fake or low-quality products – No quality control or safety guarantees.
⚠️ Legal issues – Purchasing from illegal sources may lead to confiscation or fines.
⚠️ Health risks – Counterfeit vape products may contain harmful chemicals.
💡 Best Advice: Do not rely on buying vapes in Turkey. It’s safer to bring your own supplies and follow import regulations to avoid any issues.
Final Tip: Plan Ahead for a Hassle-Free Trip
Since vaping is heavily restricted in Turkey, travelers should come prepared, follow local laws, and avoid illegal vape sales. Sticking to these guidelines will help you enjoy your trip without unnecessary stress or legal trouble.
How Does Turkey Compare to Other Countries?
When it comes to vaping laws, Turkey has some of the strictest regulations in the world. Many countries allow vaping under controlled conditions, but Turkey has banned the sale and import of vaping products (except for personal use).
Let’s compare Turkey’s vape laws with those in Europe, the USA, Italy, and Canada to see how they differ.
Turkey vs. Europe
Most European countries allow vaping, but under strict rules. The EU Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) regulates the sale, advertising, and ingredients of e-cigarettes and nicotine products.
✔️ EU countries – Vaping is legal, but nicotine content is restricted, and health warnings are required.
✔️ UK vaping laws – The UK has more relaxed rules than Turkey, allowing licensed vape shops to operate legally. The government even encourages vaping as a less harmful alternative to smoking.
❌ Turkey’s stance – No legal vape shops exist, and sales are completely banned.
Turkey vs. USA
In the United States, vaping is legal but strictly regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). The USA focuses on age restrictions, product quality control, and taxation, rather than outright bans.
✔️ FDA regulations control the sale of vapes, but they are not banned.
✔️ Nicotine products are available in licensed shops, with strict rules on advertising and ingredients.
❌ Turkey has completely banned vape sales, making it much harder for vapers to buy products legally.
Turkey vs. Italy & Canada
Both Italy and Canada have strict but regulated vape markets. They allow legal vape shops, but with tight controls on nicotine strength, flavors, and advertising.
✔️ Italy – Vape sales are legal but heavily taxed.
✔️ Canada – Allows vape products, but restricts nicotine levels and flavors to reduce youth vaping.
❌ Turkey’s approach is stricter, as sales and imports (except for personal use) are completely banned.
Final Thoughts: Turkey Has Some of the Toughest Vape Laws
Compared to Europe, the USA, and Canada, Turkey has some of the harshest vaping restrictions. While other countries allow legal vape sales with regulations, Turkey’s outright ban makes it one of the most challenging places for vapers.
💡 If you’re visiting Turkey, make sure to bring your own vape supplies and follow import rules to avoid legal trouble.
The Future of Vaping in Turkey
The future of vaping in Turkey remains uncertain, as the government continues to enforce strict vaping laws. While many countries regulate and allow vaping, Turkey has shown no signs of legalizing vape sales anytime soon.
Will Turkey Legalize Vape Sales?
Currently, there is no indication that Turkey will relax its vaping ban. The Turkish Vapers Alliance and other advocacy groups have pushed for regulated vape sales, but the Turkish Ministry of Health remains firm in its stance against e-cigarettes.
❌ No signs of legislative change, despite pressure from the World Vapers Alliance and international groups.
❌ Turkey’s tobacco control policies classify vapes as harmful, just like traditional tobacco products.
❌ WHO (World Health Organization) supports Turkey’s vaping ban, influencing the government’s strict regulations.
Black Market Growth: An Unintended Consequence
Since legal vape shops in Turkey do not exist, many vapers turn to the black market to buy their supplies. This has led to a rise in unregulated vape sales, especially in Istanbul.
📈 Demand for vapes is increasing, leading to more underground vape markets in areas like Beşiktaş, Esenyurt, and Beyoğlu.
⚠️ Risk of fake or low-quality products due to lack of regulation and quality control.
🚫 Tourists should be cautious, as buying from unverified sellers could lead to legal or health risks.
Final Thoughts: Vaping in Turkey Will Remain Strictly Controlled
Despite the growing demand for vape products, Turkey is unlikely to legalize vaping anytime soon. The government views vaping as a public health risk, and black market sales may continue to rise as a result.
💡 If you’re traveling to Turkey, make sure to bring your own vape supplies and follow import rules to avoid any issues.
Conclusion
Short answer: Yes, but you must follow Turkey’s import rules carefully. Since buying vapes in Turkey is not legally possible, the best option for travelers is to bring their own supplies while ensuring they stay within legal limits.
Key Takeaways
✔️ Buying vapes in Turkey is not legally possible, as there are no licensed vape shops due to the Presidential Decree No. 2149 banning sales. However, some unverified sellers in Istanbul operate in a legal gray area.
✔️ Tourists should bring their own vapes to avoid the risks of black market purchases and low-quality products.
✔️ Follow Turkish Customs vaping rules:
- One vape device or battery per person
- Up to 30ml of e-liquid per person
- Maximum of 10 disposable vapes per traveler
- Declare all vaping products at customs to avoid fines or confiscation
✔️ Vaping in Turkey is legal only in designated smoking areas, and strict public vaping restrictions apply.
Final Tip: Plan Ahead and Stay Updated
Since Turkey’s vaping regulations are strict, it’s important to plan ahead and bring enough supplies for your trip. Always check updated regulations before traveling, as vape laws may change over time.
💡 By following the rules and preparing in advance, you can enjoy your trip without any vaping-related issues!