In today’s fast-paced commercial world—whether shopping in stores or online—we encounter countless products and offers daily. But with more options comes a higher risk of falling victim to fraud or unfair practices, especially if you’re a foreigner living in a country like Turkey and unfamiliar with the local laws.
The good news is: the law doesn’t only protect sellers—it protects buyers too. Whether you’re a citizen or a foreign resident, you are entitled to specific rights when purchasing products or services. In this article, we’ll explain your key rights under Turkish Consumer Protection Law (Law No. 6502) and when you can confidently say “No.”
🔹 1. You Have the Right to Return Products Within a Certain Period
According to Turkish law, you can return a product within 14 days of receiving it without giving any reason, provided that:
The product has not been used and remains in its original packaging.
The purchase was made either online or in-store.
If the product is defective or different from its description, your legal position becomes even stronger.
📝 Tip: Always keep the receipt or invoice—it is your legal proof of purchase.
🔹 2. A Receipt or Invoice is Not Just a Paper—It’s a Legal Document
Many consumers overlook the importance of obtaining an official invoice or receipt. However, this document is your legal proof that shows when, where, and for how much you purchased an item.
Without a receipt, it becomes difficult to claim your rights.
If a store refuses to provide a receipt, you can report them to the Ministry of Trade.
🔹 3. If the Product Has a Manufacturing Defect, You Have 4 Legal Options
If the product you purchased has a manufacturing defect or quality issue, Turkish law grants you four legal remedies:
- Free repair of the product
- Replacement with a new, faultless item
- Full refund of the purchase amount
- Partial refund based on the defect’s severity
📌 You, as the consumer, have the right to choose which option you prefer. The seller cannot decide for you.
🔹 4. For Online Shopping, You Can Cancel Within 14 Days Without a Reason
One major advantage of online shopping is your right to cancel the purchase within 14 days of receiving the product, with no justification required. However:
The item must not be used or opened.
Some items, such as perfumes, lingerie, or perishable goods, are excluded.
In some cases, return shipping fees may apply unless the error is from the seller’s side.
⚠️ Note: If the seller does not inform you of your right to cancel in advance, the return period can extend up to one year.
🔹 5. Transparency is a Legal Requirement
By law, every seller must clearly provide all conditions related to the sale—this includes price, product features, warranty terms, return policies, etc. If this information is missing or misleading:
The consumer is considered misled and has the right to file a complaint.
False advertising or unclear promotions may result in penalties for the seller.
🔹 6. Foreigners Have the Same Consumer Rights as Turkish Citizens
One of the most overlooked facts by foreigners in Turkey is that they have equal consumer protection rights as Turkish citizens. Regardless of your nationality:
You have the right to file complaints.
Supporting documents such as receipts, screenshots, or correspondence strengthen your case.
Complaints can be filed with Consumer Arbitration Committees, the Ministry of Trade, or via the e-Government portal.
🧾 We Can Help You
Whether you’re a foreigner or a local, we’re here to help you protect your rights as a consumer:
✅ Drafting and submitting formal complaints on your behalf
✅ Providing sworn translations for all supporting documents
✅ Representing you in cases involving fraud, defective products, or misleading contracts
✅ Offering preventive legal advice before making large purchases or signing commercial agreements
📞 Reach out before you lose your money or get stuck with a bad deal.
🛡️ With Soada7, your rights are always protected by law.