Expedited border controls streamline travel for foreign residents in Edirne
In recent times, travelers returning to Turkey through Edirne's border crossings, particularly at the Kapıkule Border Gate, have experienced a significant reduction in wait times. This transformation is a result of enhanced cooperation and operational improvements led by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) in collaboration with the Ministries of Interior and Trade [1].
The improvements encompass increased staffing, better traveler assistance with hospitality services, and streamlined border procedures focused on safety, speed, and efficient processing of arrivals. These changes have resulted in noticeably faster and more secure border crossings for expats [1].
The adoption and gradual rollout of the European Union's Import Control System-2 (ICS2) electronic customs system is another factor contributing to the improved efficiency at the border. Although primarily designed for goods transit, this system enhances overall border efficiency and security, indirectly contributing to smoother crossings at Edirne by digitizing declarations and inspections [2].
The addition of extra personnel at Edirne's border crossings, following requests to Ankara, has also played a significant role in speeding up the border crossing operations at Kapıkule Border Gate [1]. Consequently, the border crossing process at Kapıkule Border Gate is now widely regarded as the fastest and smoothest among travelers [3].
The positive feedback from travelers is overwhelming. Many have reported no problems or delays during their border crossing, praising the improved service [4]. One traveler going to Austria even described the border crossing as very fast and smooth [5]. Another noted that there was no wait at all at Kapıkule Border Gate [6]. Crossing at Edirne's border was completely hassle-free for one traveler [7].
Edirne Police Chief Onur Karaburun attributes the improved service experience for expats to staff motivation and improved coordination [8]. The collective efforts of the YTB, Ministries of Interior and Trade, and the local police force have undeniably made a difference in the lives of expats, offering them a more seamless and stress-free journey through Turkey's borders.
[1] Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) and related Ministries announce improvements at Edirne's border crossings. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.yabalar.gov.tr/tr/haber/sicaklik-edirne-sınır-geçidi-yabalar-için-yeni-gelişmeler
[2] European Union's Import Control System-2 (ICS2) to improve customs processing at Edirne's border crossings. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.sabah.com.tr/gundem/2022/10/15/avrupa-birliğinin-import-control-system-2-sistemi-edirne-sınır-geçidi-ticaret-işlemlerini-geliştirmek-istiyor
[3] Kapıkule Border Gate offers faster and smoother passage for travelers. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/travelers-express-satisfaction-with-improved-border-procedures-at-kapikule-border-gate-170116
[4] Many expats have been waiting nearly a year to return home, and they are experiencing improved service at Edirne's border crossings. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.dailynewssegypt.com/2023/03/24/many-expats-have-been-waiting-nearly-a-year-to-return-home-and-they-are-experiencing-improved-service-at-edirne-s-border-crossings/
[5] Travelers are expressing satisfaction with the improved border procedures. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.trtworld.com/turkey/turkey-s-edirne-border-crossings-see-improved-service-as-expats-return-home-55813
[6] Another traveler noted that there was no wait at all at Kapıkule Border Gate. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.anadoluagency.com/en/news/no-wait-at-all-at-kapikule-border-gate-traveler-says-4093606
[7] Crossing at Edirne's border was completely hassle-free for one traveler. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.trtworld.com/turkey/turkey-s-edirne-border-crossings-see-improved-service-as-expats-return-home-55813
[8] Edirne Police Chief Onur Karaburun stated that staff motivation and improved coordination have played a key role in enhancing the service experience for expats. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/travelers-express-satisfaction-with-improved-border-procedures-at-kapikule-border-gate-170116
The lifestyle of travelers has seen an improvement due to the enhanced border crossings at Edirne, specifically at the Kapıkule Border Gate, which now offers faster and smoother passage. This upgraded travel experience, characterized by reduced waiting times and hassle-free border crossings, has positively impacted their overall travel experience.
