Guides
ATA Carnet and Film Equipment Customs in Türkiye
Quick Answer / Summary
Foreign productions usually bring professional filming equipment into Türkiye duty-free with an ATA Carnet, temporarily importing it and re-exporting the same items after the shoot. The carnet is issued by the chamber of commerce in the production's home country, and the equipment list must be complete with serial numbers. Without a carnet, a guaranteed temporary import procedure is used; drones and radio equipment need separate permissions.
- Which authority?
- Turkish Customs, issuing chamber of commerce, DGCA (SHGM)/ICTA if needed
- How long?
- Carnet preparation usually 1–2 weeks; customs clearance same day
- Who is it for?
- Foreign and co-productions filming in Türkiye
How does the process work?
- 01
Equipment list
Every item listed with make, model, serial number, quantity and value.
- 02
Carnet application
Obtain the ATA Carnet from your home chamber of commerce and lodge the guarantee.
- 03
Entry customs
Present the carnet and gear at the airport and have the entry voucher stamped.
- 04
During the shoot
Use the gear as listed; never sell or leave items in Türkiye.
- 05
Exit and discharge
Show the same gear at exit customs and discharge the carnet.
Required documents (checklist)
Frequently asked questions
+Can we bring equipment without an ATA Carnet?
Yes, through a guaranteed temporary import procedure, but it takes longer and needs more paperwork, so a carnet is usually preferred.
+What if equipment goes missing during the shoot?
Items on the list that cannot be shown at exit may incur duties and penalties. Record any loss or damage immediately.
+Can a drone travel on an ATA Carnet?
It can clear customs, but flying it in Türkiye requires separate DGCA (SHGM) registration and flight permission.
See which permits you need in 2 minutes.
Related guides
Related service: Fixer & Consultancy for Foreign Productions