Turkey Blocks 8 International eSIM Providers

Turkey's Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) has moved to block access to eight globally-popular eSIM providers, in a move widely seen as steering consumers toward domestic telecom networks with strong ties to the government.

eSIMs (embedded SIM cards) that allow users to download and activate mobile plans directly onto smartphones or tablets, have long offered travelers a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional roaming. They enable quick access to affordable data plans without the need for physical SIM cards, making them popular among Turkish travelers heading abroad

Which services are affected?

BTK has blocked websites belonging to:

• Saily
• Airalo
• Holafly
• Nomad
• Instabridge
• Mobimatter
• Alosim
• BNESIM

These eight providers offer international eSIMs that enable users to switch between carriers and manage data plans on the go.

eSIM sağlayıcıları (Saily, Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, Instabridge, Mobimatter, Alosim, BNESIM), Bilgi Teknolojileri ve İletişim Kurumu Yetkilendirme Dairesi Başkanlığının 10.07.2025 tarihli ve E-98966759-450.08-36681 sayılı kararıyla erişime engellendi. https://t.co/6cONbTUqw5pic.twitter.com/gL8OgM7xyw

— EngelliWeb (@engelliweb) July 11, 2025

Government Motivations

Critics suggest this action is part of a broader effort to limit access to uncensored, foreign-controlled internet channels. Legal expert Yaman Akdeniz, co-founder of the Freedom of Expression Association (İFÖD), commented that "they had blocked everything else in Turkey; eSIMs were the only ones left" and described the move as an attempt to force citizens into using Turkish providers.

A Bulgarian news outlet echoed this sentiment, noting the absence of an official justification from BTK, though analysts believe the effort is aimed at preserving the market share of domestic telecoms and curbing users' ability to route data through foreign networks

How This Affects Travelers

For many travelers, the ban primarily impacts eSIM purchases made after arriving in Turkey. Those who install travel eSIMs like Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad prior to entry into Turkish territory will find them continue to work normally. However, once on the ground, the blocked websites make purchasing new eSIMs or topping-up significantly more difficult.

Reddit users have already pointed out that existing plans remain active, but purchasing new ones may require using a VPN or doing it before arrival:

"The SIM works as long as you downloaded it before arriving."

"Buy before you go ideally." Source: Reddit

What Travelers Should Do

• Download and activate your eSIM before landing in Turkey. Providers like Airalo and Holafly will function normally once activated internationally.
• Use a VPN if you need to buy or top up while in Turkey. Although some VPNs are also restricted, this may still be the most reliable workaround.
• Alternatively, pick up a local physical SIM from Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom, though this usually requires presenting your passport and may come with higher airport prices.

Bottom Line

This isn't a ban on eSIM functionality, but rather a block on eight specific international providers' websites. Travelers who pre-purchase their digital plans can still stay connected. However, those seeking eSIMs after arriving in Turkey may have to turn to local telecoms or use workarounds like VPNs.