As of 2023, Türkiye (Turkey) has formally implemented an Advance Passenger Information (API) system that extends to general aviation (GA) and air cargo operators. Under the oversight of the Presidency of Migration Management (PMM) and its Türkiye Passenger Information Center (TPIC), this system requires the submission of detailed crew and passenger information prior to all international and domestic flights to/from or within Türkiye.

Here’s what business aviation operators need to know.

Who Must Comply

All GA operators, including non-commercial business flights, must now submit API data when operating to/from Türkiye. This includes both:

• International flights (departing from or arriving in Türkiye)
• Domestic flights (internal repositioning, ferry flights, etc.)

What Data Must Be Submitted

Operators must report the following for each passenger and crew member:

• Full name (exactly as shown on travel document)
• Date of birth, nationality, and gender
• Travel document type, number, issuing country, and expiration date
• Traveler type (passenger, crew, transit, etc.)
• Number and weight of bags

Submissions may be made manually via the TPIC Carrier Portal or through batch upload using an Excel template. Operators may also use third-party providers, but are still fully responsible for compliance.

When to Submit

Timelines for API submission are strictly defined:

• International departures from Türkiye: API must be submitted at least 120 minutes before scheduled departure
• International arrivals to Türkiye: API must be submitted at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure
• Domestic flights: API must be submitted at least 60 minutes before departure

Delays, missed submissions, or inaccurate data may result in penalties, as outlined under Turkish immigration law (Law No. 6458).

How to Register

Operators must register with TPIC by contacting TPIC directly and sending a request to:  tpic@migration.gov.tr

Same information can be found in online portal ” Dont have an account ” button https://tpic.migration.gov.tr

Once registered, carriers receive secure login credentials and can begin entering flight and traveler data directly into the TPIC system.

Acceptable Travel Documents

Passengers and crew must be documented with one of the following:

• Passport (standard, diplomatic, or service)
• Travel documents for refugees/stateless persons
• National ID cards (for domestic flights)
• Crew member certificates or pilot licenses
• Other government-issued permits or identity cards as outlined by PMM

Note: For many domestic flight scenarios involving foreign nationals, an Itinerary Permission Document may also be required.

Key Takeaways for Business Aviation

• This is live now: All GA traffic operating to/from Türkiye must comply.
• Plan for submission time: Don’t wait until the last minute—submission windows are strict.
• API is mandatory for domestic flights too: This requirement is broader than in many other countries.
• You’re liable, even with third-party help: Responsibility lies with the operator, not your handler or software provider.

How Universal Can Help

Staying on top of API regulations is increasingly complex across global jurisdictions. Universal is actively supporting operators in navigating API compliance in countries like Greece, Kenya, and now Türkiye.

Our global regulatory specialists can:

• Help you register with TPIC
• Assist with API data formatting and submission
• Coordinate directly with your local handler and ground support team

Learn more about our international regulatory support services