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Turkey's BDDK clarifies credit card limit and fee regulations
Recent rumors regarding the mandatory reduction of credit card limits for millions of users in Turkey have been addressed by industry sources. The Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BDDK) has not issued any new decision to lower all credit card limits. However, existing regulations from January 2026 remain in effect, which mandate that total credit card limits across all banks be determined based on a person's verified monthly or annual income.
Under current rules, total limits for new cardholders cannot exceed twice their monthly average income in the first year, and four times that amount in subsequent years. For those with limits exceeding 400,000 TL, there are ongoing technical studies to align unused limits with income levels, with a target completion date of January 1, 2027.
Separately, experts are warning consumers about the distinction between ‘fee-free’ and ‘cost-free’ cards. While banks are legally required to offer at least one card type without an annual membership fee, users may still encounter costs for cash advances, installment services, ATM usage, and international transactions. Total card numbers in Turkey have reached 476.2 million, highlighting the growing importance of managing these diverse fee structures to avoid significant financial burdens.
Entities
BDDK · Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency · Banks Association of Turkey · Banks Association of Turkey Risk Center · Interbank Card Center · Social Security Institution · Turkey
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Claims have circulated suggesting banks will use SGK and TBB Risk Center data to verify actual salaries and adjust limits accordingly. www.ilerigazetesi.com.tr · www.yenisafak.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The existing BDDK Board Decision No. 11367 regarding the determination of credit card limits remains in force. www.gazetearena.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] There is currently no new decision from the BDDK regarding a universal reduction in credit card limits. www.gazetearena.com · www.ilerigazetesi.com.tr · www.yenisafak.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The BDDK previously stated that technical and administrative studies regarding credit card limit regulations are continuing. www.ilerigazetesi.com.tr · www.yenisafak.com