Urgent: Turkey Bans eSIMs, Irish Tourists Must Act Now!

UPDATE: Irish travelers heading to Turkey this summer face urgent challenges as the country enforces a sudden ban on eSIMs from eight popular providers, including Saily, Airalo, and Holafly. This critical development could leave many without essential mobile data upon arrival.

Tourists are advised to act quickly to avoid being caught off guard. The ban prohibits the activation of new eSIMs in Turkey, meaning those who wait until arrival to set up their digital SIM will encounter significant access issues. With the summer travel season in full swing, this is a timely alert for anyone planning to visit.

Travel expert at Holafly, Juan David Soler, warns, “Turkey’s sudden ban on eSIMs has caught many travelers off guard, and it’s vital that Irish holidaymakers heading there this summer take action before they fly.” He emphasizes the importance of ensuring that eSIMs are fully downloaded and activated before leaving Ireland.

For travelers who have already downloaded their eSIM profiles, the data plans will continue to function normally in Turkey. However, if you need to install or purchase an eSIM once you arrive, you risk being without internet access — a serious setback for navigating maps, transport, and bookings.

The ban is particularly impactful for Irish tourists, who have increasingly relied on eSIMs to avoid the high costs associated with local SIM cards and roaming fees. With Turkey being a favored holiday destination, the timing of this announcement raises concerns about connectivity for many.

As the summer travel season heats up, Irish holidaymakers must prioritize this essential step before their flights. Soler advises checking that your eSIM is operational while still on Irish networks, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

With the potential for confusion and disruption, it is crucial for travelers to stay informed and take the necessary steps to avoid being cut off as soon as they land. Prepare now to ensure you have the connectivity needed for a smooth trip.

Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.