Can you bring binoculars or night-vision devices into Turkey?
Rules for binoculars, telescopes, microscopes, and night-vision and thermal devices. One pair of hand binoculars is duty-free; night-vision binoculars and goggles are expressly excluded.
Bringing it with you
One pair of hand binoculars is exempt under Annex 9. Night-vision binoculars and goggles and night-vision sniper scopes are expressly excluded from this exemption.
Documents
- Passport / ID
- The relevant permit for night-vision and thermal devices
Good to know
- Night-vision and thermal imaging devices are controlled; those brought without a permit may be seized.
- Telescopes and microscopes are not in Annex 9; they fall under the 430 EUR gift allowance.
Legal basis: Decision 2009/15481, Annex 9 B/f-6
Sending it by post or courier
Ordinary binoculars, telescopes and microscopes can arrive by courier; there is no exemption and import duties are payable. Night-vision and thermal devices require a permit.
Documents
- Invoice
- The relevant permit for night-vision / thermal devices
Good to know
- A device that requires a permit is not released if sent without the document.
- Above 30 kg gross the courier cannot file the declaration; you must file it yourself.
Legal basis: Decision 2009/15481, Art. 126 · Annex 9 B/f-6
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring binoculars into Turkey as a passenger?
Yes, with conditions. One pair of hand binoculars is exempt under Annex 9. Night-vision binoculars and goggles and night-vision sniper scopes are expressly excluded from this exemption.
Can binoculars be sent to Turkey by post or courier?
Yes, with conditions. Ordinary binoculars, telescopes and microscopes can arrive by courier; there is no exemption and import duties are payable. Night-vision and thermal devices require a permit.
What is the Turkey customs allowance for binoculars and night-vision devices?
Allowance: 1 pair of hand binoculars · night-vision devices excluded.
Do I pay customs duty on binoculars?
As a passenger, no customs duty is due within the Annex 9 allowance. Allowance: 1 pair of hand binoculars · night-vision devices excluded. By post or courier there has been no value exemption since 6 February 2026; customs duty and VAT (and special consumption tax where applicable) are calculated according to the item's tariff code.
What documents do I need for binoculars?
As a passenger: Passport / ID, The relevant permit for night-vision and thermal devices. By post or courier: Invoice, The relevant permit for night-vision / thermal devices.
Related topics
Rules as of · for information only, not a substitute for the legislation · official information: Turkish Ministry of Trade, call 175 · Türkçe sürüm