Turkey

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police
• Dial 112 for ambulance, or to request police assistance for domestic violence. They may speak other foreign languages other than Turkish.
• Dial 183 and press “0” for the Ministry of Family and Social Services to report domestic violence (only in Turkish). 

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists have previously attacked U.S. interests in Türkiye, including the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, and the U.S. Consulate in Adana.  The U.S.-designated terrorist group Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) announced its formal dissolution and disarmament in May 2025 and its full withdrawal from Turkish territory in October 2025.  However, the demobilization process is not complete and the risk of renewed terror attacks by the PKK or its affiliates persists, especially if the current process collapses.  Terrorist organizations continue to plot possible attacks in Türkiye.  Attacks inspired or organized by transnational extremist organizations, including ISIS (Da’esh), ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K), and al-Qa'ida, remain a major threat in Türkiye.  Recent terrorist incidents targeted police in Izmir, Yalova, and Istanbul.

Extremist cells frequently target "soft" targets in major urban areas, including:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)
• Diplomatic/international interests such as embassies and consulates

Additionally, Turkish government interests have historically been targeted:

• Aerospace facility
• Police checkpoints
• Military personnel
• Courthouses

Security forces maintain a high operational tempo against terrorist cells, particularly in urban centers and along tightened southern borders.

Border Region Security (Syria and Iraq Borders)

Heightened caution is required in districts immediately adjacent to the Syrian and Iraqi borders. These areas are subject to potential:

• Cross-Border Spillover: Proximity to conflict zones increases the risk of unauthorized transit and stray fire.
• Extremist Transit: Border towns may serve as transit points for foreign terrorist fighters and contraband.
• Increased Security Presence: Travelers should expect a heavy security presence, including frequent checkpoints and restricted movement near borders.

Traveler Recommendations

• Maintain a high level of situational awareness in crowded public spaces.
• Cooperate fully with Turkish security personnel at checkpoints.
• Monitor local media for unannounced road closures or localized security operations in the southeastern provinces.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Protests have been largely peaceful, though some clashes with police have occurred.
• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Any demonstration has the potential to turn violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Violent clashes have taken place between Kurdish groups and Turkish police resulting from organized demonstrations in Eastern and Southern Türkiye.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts and updates.

Crime

Street crime occurs in Türkiye.  You should always stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions. The following types of crime have been reported:

• Theft: Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and mugging are common. Carry only necessary items when in tourist areas. 
• Residential crime: Occurs more often in major cities. Criminals typically target ground floor apartments for theft.
• Sexual assault: Common in Turkish baths (hamams) or spas, night clubs, in taxis, and when traveling alone at night. Assaults involving date rape drugs have also been reported.
• Hate crime: There have also been threats and acts of violence targeting religious minorities, groups, institutions, and places of worship in Türkiye. The level of anti-Israeli and antisemitic sentiment is high.
• Confidence schemes: Travelers are tricked into ordering food or drinks at a restaurant and then are charged incredibly high prices. Only go to well-established restaurants and ask to see a menu with prices before ordering anything.
• Counterfeit alcohol: This has caused multiple deaths in Türkiye, including in tourist areas.  Only buy alcoholic beverages from licensed liquor stores, bars, hotels, and markets. Avoid homemade alcohol. Check that bottle seals are intact, even when you purchase alcohol at licensed stores.  Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you or a traveling companion was exposed.

U.S. Government travel restrictions

U.S. Government employees are subject to travel restrictions to the following southeastern provinces:

• Adıyaman
• Batman
• Bingöl
• Bitlis
• Diyarbakır
• Elazığ
  
• Gaziantep
• Hakkari
• Hatay
• İçel (Mersin)
• Kilis
• Kahramanmaraş
  
• Malatya
• Mardin
• Muş
  
• Osmaniye
• Şanlıurfa
  
• Siirt
• Şırnak
  
• Tunceli
• Van

Eastern and Southeastern provinces

Do not travel to areas near the Syrian or Iraqi borders.

In these areas:

• Restricted access: Local security forces tightly control access near the Iraqi border in Hakkari and Şırnak, and along the entire border with Syria. Do not take photos or videos of Turkish military sites or operations.
• Shootings: Some border towns have been hit by bullets and artillery from Syria, causing deaths and injuries.
• Roadblocks and checkpoints: Use commercial air travel when you can. If you must drive, travel in daylight on major highways. Obey police at checkpoints and have your ID and car papers ready. Avoid public transportation in the southeastern region.
• Curfews: The government may set curfews due to military activity. Follow all local rules. 

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial and internet romance scams are common in Türkiye. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters and social media. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help, and they have demonstrated the patience to develop a phony relationship for many months before they begin asking for money.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Requests for money transfers
• Work permits and job offers
• Anyone offering any kind of free service or product, as this often results in their demanding you pay after you accept it.
• Turkish authorities have blocked access to several dating and video chat apps, including Azar, LivU, and Tango.
• Some apps, such as Grindr, have been banned in the past on grounds of obscenity. 

If using dating apps or websites in Türkiye: 

• Be aware that criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’ compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or an emergency loan for limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.
• Visit you in jail to check on your welfare in the event you are arrested.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. We can help in communicating with local authorities for assistance.

• If you are in an urgent life or death situation or need immediate medical attention, dial 112 for local emergency assistance.   
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact local law enforcement and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

Drones are allowed in Türkiye. You must follow the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DGSAA) rules.

• All drone pilots who wish to fly a drone weighing more than 1.1 pounds must register with the Turkish government prior to flying.
• You must get approval before using drones for commercial reasons.

Drones cannot fly above 394 feet or weigh more than 8.8 pounds for private or personal flights.

• Review more information from the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure – General Directorate of State Airports Authority.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Hotels and inns may lack fire safety features such as alarms audible in guest rooms, sprinklers, and out-swinging emergency exit doors equipped with panic hardware.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical assistance to arrive.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

Adventure travel has inherent risks anywhere in the world.  Although many U.S. travelers participate in these activities without incident, some U.S. citizens over the years have become injured or died in adventure travel activities.

• Use reputable, licensed tour operators.
• Have adequate training for whatever adventure activity you are pursuing.
• Inspect the condition of equipment.
• Speak with a doctor regarding your own personal health risks and physical limitations for any planned adventure activities.
• Have a plan for communicating with emergency services if needed.
• Use common sense: If something does not feel right, and your life could be at risk, do not do it.
• Have international medical insurance that covers adventure activities.
• Stay aware of potential security-related restrictions and heightened risks in remote areas.

Mount Ararat, in Ağrı Province, is located in a special military zone. All travelers must obtain access permission.  Visit Mount Ararat only with a reputable tour agency who will obtain the permission for you.

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Türkiye, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Use or possession of narcotics

• Since 2024, Türkiye has tightened penalties for narcotic substances.
• Even small amounts of cannabis, which may be legal in some countries, are strictly prohibited in Türkiye.
• You may face long-term prison sentences.

Photography of military sites

• Do not photograph or take video of Turkish military operations.
• Do not try to enter military installations anywhere in the country. 

Gun ownership

• It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Türkiye. You could face fines, arrest, or detention for long periods of time.
• A foreign national who is a tourist or short-term visitor in Türkiye has no right to possess or carry firearms in Türkiye regardless of their home country’s licensing status.
• Under Turkish Law, a foreign national can apply for a gun license, but you need to meet Türkiye’s official criteria. Review the Law for Firearms and Knives and Other Tools in Türkiye.

Cultural artifacts

• Türkiye has strict laws about “antiquities” (old cultural or historic items).
• It is a crime to take antiquities out of the country.
• If you buy old items, use authorized dealers. Get a museum certificate and receipt for each item.
• If you do not have these papers when you leave, you could be arrested and sent to jail.
• Ask the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Washington for details on customs rules.

Camouflage clothing

Camouflage clothing is not officially illegal in Türkiye. However, the U.S. embassy advises you not to wear camouflage or clothing that looks like a military or police uniform.

• Most locals connect camouflage with the military.
• If you wear it, some locals may think you are a soldier or involved in a conflict. This could create problems for you.

Stop and search rules

• Under 2018 laws, Turkish security forces have an expanded legal ability to stop and search individuals and to detain individuals without charge.
• For your own safety:
  • Always carry a passport or identity document.
  • Follow local news sources during your stay to remain abreast of any potential areas, dates, or times of concern.
  • Exercise caution and good judgment, keep a low profile, and maintain a high level of vigilance.
  • Always obey the instructions of Turkish security personnel.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 
• Turkish authorities may not inform U.S. officials of dual nationals arrested in Türkiye.

Detention conditions

Many prisons in Türkiye are very crowded.

• Some U.S. citizens in prison say they face unfair treatment, threats, and sometimes physical abuse from other prisoner groups.
• New prisoners cannot bring in their own medicines.
• There is often a delay in getting needed medicine until the prison doctor sees the prisoner and prescribes it.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• Türkiye is a major source of counterfeit goods, particularly apparel, though authorities enforce laws against these products through seizures.  Be aware of such items in marketplaces.

Reports of death from counterfeit alcohol have become increasingly frequent in Türkiye.  People have died or suffered serious illness in Türkiye after drinking illegally produced local spirits and counterfeit bottles of branded alcohol. Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

• Many people visit Türkiye for Islamic (including Alevi and Sufi), Christian, and Jewish history because there are many holy sites.
• There is no law that bans sharing your religion. However, people who do religious outreach sometimes have trouble getting or renewing visas, residence permits, or Turkish citizenship.  

Prepare for your trip using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Türkiye.  

• Gay and lesbian travelers should exercise caution, especially outside major cities. Avoid public displays of affection and be discreet.
• While major cities like Istanbul and Izmir are more liberal, it is wise to research accommodations in advance. Public affection is not culturally accepted, even among heterosexual couples. 
• Same-sex relations are not illegal, but legal protections are limited and discrimination occurs. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The Turkish constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of state services, employment, education, and access to health care.

• However, access to buildings and public transportation for persons with disabilities in most cities is quite limited. Accessibility for people with disabilities in Türkiye is low.

Airports and metro stations are typically accessible.

• Travelers with disabilities can find wheelchair repairs, parts, rentals, and accessible transportation in major Turkish cities, but it may require advance planning. Availability for specific complex parts depends on local suppliers. 
• There are sign language advertisements for interpreters in major cities. Travelers are encouraged to research service providers in advance of travel. Coordinate with any tour operators who can help you in securing services.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

U.S. citizens who want to study in Türkiye must get a student visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate before they arrive.

• Students should work closely with their study abroad advisor in the United States, if they have one. They should also work with their host school’s international office in Türkiye.
• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

The U.S. embassy knows of several sexual assaults against U.S. citizens in Türkiye, especially women.

These have happened to tourists traveling solo or in small groups. These incidents have occurred at spas or hamams, nightclubs, bars, in taxis, and while walking alone at night.

If you are sexually assaulted:

• Dial 112 if you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical help. Try to get to a safe place or hospital if you need medical services.
• Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They can help you, including talking with the police. A duty officer is available after hours.

Forced marriage:  

Some families have brought minor U.S. citizen girls to Türkiye for forced marriage, often to adult relatives.

• The legal age to marry in Türkiye is 18, so forced marriages of individuals under 18 are not legal.
• If you or someone you know is threatened with or in a forced marriage in Türkiye, call the Turkish National Police at 112. You can also contact the U.S. embassy.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

General victim assistance resources:

• U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women: Information about local sexual assault and domestic violence victim assistance organizations.
• FBI Online Tip Reporting Form: Online reporting form through the Federal Bureau of Investigation for cases of human trafficking.
• Office for Victims of Crime Directory of Crime Victim Services: Global list of abuse hotlines, shelters, refuges, crisis centers and women's organizations.  There is also domestic violence information in over 90 languages.
• National Center for Victims of Crime: Information for crime victims on the impact of crime, safety planning, legal rights and civil legal remedies, and options for assistance and referrals to local programs.

Early and forced marriage resources:

• Tahirih Center for Justice: Nonprofit that provides resettlement resources for victims of early and forced marriage in the United States.
• Unchained At Last: Nonprofit that provides resources for early and forced marriage survivors.
• For more information, visit our page on Forced Marriage.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.  The 2024 report identifies several concerns relevant to U.S. travelers, including arbitrary detention, harsh prison conditions including credible reports of torture and mistreatment, and strict enforcement of laws criminalizing criticism of the government or its officials, including on social media.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Turkey Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available.

• New private hospitals in big cities like Ankara, Antalya, Izmir, Istanbul, and Adana have modern equipment, U.S.-trained doctors, and international accreditation. Even in these hospitals, some very serious health problems may be hard to treat.
• In smaller cities, health care is usually not as good. Foreigners may find it hard to get help for mental health or psychological conditions, especially if they do not speak Turkish.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not. You should have health insurance that covers expenses overseas. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Türkiye. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. 
• Turkish hospitals often charge higher prices to foreign patients.
• Credit card payment is typically available.
• Some private hospitals ask for payment up front for expensive procedures.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance that covers medical evacuation as well as repatriation of mortal remains. Although this type of coverage may be for rare circumstances, medical evacuation and repatriation of mortal remains can create a financial burden for you and your family.
• We recommend sharing with your family or emergency contacts information – such as name, policy, and contact information – for your health insurance that covers you internationally.  That way, if there is a medical emergency in which you cannot communicate your insurance information, your family or emergency contact can help.

Vaccinations

Carry proof of vaccination against yellow fever if arriving from countries in South America or sub-Saharan Africa where yellow fever is present. The Turkish Ministry of Health advises tourists to be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, meningitis (meningococcal vaccine), and tetanus.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Türkiye Health facilities are available throughout Türkiye.
• The quality of medical care in Türkiye can be very different from place to place.
• New private hospitals in big cities like Ankara, Antalya, Izmir, Istanbul, and Adana have modern equipment, U.S.-trained doctors, and international accreditation. Even in these hospitals, some very serious health problems may be hard to treat.
• In smaller cities, healthcare is usually not as good. Foreigners find it hard to get help for mental health or psychological conditions, especially if they do not speak Turkish.
• The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals.  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Some hospitals and doctors, especially private, require payment up front prior to service or admission.
• U.S. citizens have filed many complaints about unethical business practices. They have expressed concern about high prices and collection methods from some private hospitals, especially in Kuşadası, a popular cruise ship stop near Ephesus.  
• Before agreeing to any medical care, travelers should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures and have the right to choose which medical facility they go to, including public facilities. 
• Some medical facilities may attempt to deny you access to your passport in exchange for payment. If this occurs, dial 112 to contact the police.
• Be aware that some hotels, resorts, etc. have exclusive agreements with medical providers. This may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in hospitals, only minimal staff are available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Türkiye is a leading global destination for medical tourism due to its high-quality, affordable healthcare services, modern facilities, and skilled medical professionals. 

• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that foreign medical systems are different from that of the United States. Non-U.S. doctors, clinics, and hospitals do not follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Türkiye.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. A small number of U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Türkiye .
• Although Türkiye has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies. If you plan to undergo surgery in Türkiye, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and that professionals are accredited and qualified. 
• You must have a proper “medical” visa for some medical procedures. Check with the nearest embassy or consulate of Türkiye for more information. See Medical visa for Turkey information.

Prescription medication

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Government of Türkiye prohibited custom items to ensure the medication is legal in Türkiye.  Some medications may be unavailable in Türkiye.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescription medication (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the entire duration of your trip.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Some common U.S. prescriptions widely available in the United States may be illegal in Türkiye.  Even if just changing planes, having illegal drugs can mean arrest and long prison terms. Prescription medications leading to high risk of arrest include opioid-based painkillers, Benzodiazepines, and ADHD stimulants. Travelers whose medical conditions require these high-risk medications should seek prior approval from the government of Türkiye before traveling with them.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

Non-traditional medicine in Türkiye exists. The Ministry of Health recognizes and regulates acupuncturists, homeopaths, and mesotherapists. 

• Please exercise caution and make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities if you choose to see a non-traditional medicine practitioner. 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• Surrogacy is illegal in Türkiye. 
• If you are considering traveling to Türkiye to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to use for cooking. Nonetheless, in general, people do not drink tap water in cities.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe to drink. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude

• Altitude can be a problem in some high areas of Türkiye. This includes Eastern Anatolia and the Kaçkar Mountains.
• If you go up too fast, you might get altitude sickness. This can cause headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and breathlessness, especially above 2,500 m (8,200 ft). 

Safety tips:

• Go up slowly in high areas. Take one or more rest days below 3,000 meters to get used to the high altitude.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• Very serious problems, such as swelling in the brain (HACE) or fluid in the lungs (HAPE), are emergencies and mean you must go down to a lower altitude right away.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude areas.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Istanbul, Ankara, and Adana.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

U.S. citizens may find road conditions that are very different from those in the United States.

• Stay aware of your surroundings. Drivers routinely ignore traffic regulations, including driving through red lights and stop signs, and turning left from far-right lanes.
• Be extremely cautious while driving at night. Some local drivers drive without their lights on or with very low lights. This makes it difficult to see them.
• Live farm animals can be found near or in the roadway in rural areas.
• Temporary police checkpoints are common. Obey authorities’ instructions at checkpoints.
• Highways in the tourist areas of Türkiye’s western, southwestern, and coastal regions are generally in good condition and are well maintained. Road conditions in other areas vary.
• Adequate traffic signage generally exists. 
• Emergency services and roadside assistance are generally available through private insurance companies and other private parties.   
• Emergency personnel response may be dependent on traffic conditions at the time they are called.    
• Have spare tires, tools, and emergency triangles or orange cones. During wintertime, use winter tires.

Traffic laws

• A valid U.S. driver’s license is accepted in Türkiye for a short-term visit up to 90 days. For stays up to one year, a U.S. driver’s license is valid as long as you have a notarized Turkish translation.
• If there is a traffic accident, even fender-benders, those involved are expected not to move the vehicles until they are instructed by police. This can result in lane blockages. Traffic in unblocked lanes continues moving.
• It is illegal to use a cellphone while driving. You can face a fine.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis and ride-shares are common in Türkiye.

• Ride-share apps are common in Türkiye. They are popular for finding drivers and avoiding scams, especially in Istanbul, where traditional taxis can overcharge.
• Using these apps ensures meters are used and provides safety features.
• Some drivers may prefer cash, especially at airports. 
• Some airports do not permit ride-share pickups.
• Major cities also have taxi stands and some have taxi call buttons throughout the city.

Public and commercial transportation

Türkiye has good public transportation, and it is generally considered safe. 

• Options include long-distance buses, domestic flights, minibuses, and ferries.
• The train network is being improved, with new high-speed lines connecting Ankara with İstanbul, Konya, and Sivas. 
• Pay close attention to your personal belongings when using public transportation.
• Visit the website of Turkey’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Türkiye’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Türkiye should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

• Türkiye experiences earthquakes, severe wildfires (especially in summer), intense floods, landslides, droughts, storms, and heavy snowfall. These affect several regions in the country. 
• Earthquakes occur throughout Türkiye.
• Make backup plans and leave emergency contact information with family members outside Türkiye.
• General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and at Ready.gov. In Türkiye, information in English is available from the Ministry of Interior’s Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD).

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates