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How foreign visitors can attend football matches in Türkiye, step-by-step guide

A collage featuring a stadium, football, Passolig mobile apps, a passport, and the text “Passo Lig,” created on August 7, 2025. (Türkiye Today)
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A collage featuring a stadium, football, Passolig mobile apps, a passport, and the text “Passo Lig,” created on August 7, 2025. (Türkiye Today)
August 08, 2025 01:19 PM GMT+03:00

As Türkiye gears up for the 68th season of its top-flight football league, the excitement is reaching fever pitch. The opening match on Friday, August 8, 2025, sees Gaziantep FK face off against defending champions Galatasaray at Gaziantep Stadium, kicking off at 9:30 p.m.

Whether you're an expat, a tourist, or just a football enthusiast visiting Türkiye, attending a live match is easier than ever — if you know the process. Here's your clear, up-to-date guide to entering stadiums legally, safely, and confidently.

Passo Lig ID card, accessed on Aug. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)
Passo Lig ID card, accessed on Aug. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)

Step 1: Apply for a Passolig card

What is Passolig?
Passolig is a mandatory identification system used for entry into Super Lig stadiums. It connects your identity to your ticket, enhancing both safety and security.

Can foreigners apply?
Yes. Foreign nationals can register using a valid passport. Turkish citizenship is not required.

How to apply:

  • Visit the official Passolig website
  • Or download the Passo Mobile app (available on iOS and Android)
  • Choose your team or select a neutral card
  • Upload a passport photo and enter your passport details
  • Pay a fee, typically between ₺100–$200 (around $3-$5)

Important: You do not need to wait for a physical card. The QR code within the app can be used directly at stadium gates.

Example Super Lig match tickets, accessed on Aug. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)
Example Super Lig match tickets, accessed on Aug. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)

Step 2: Purchase a match ticket

Once your Passolig card is activated, you can purchase tickets through:

Tickets usually go on sale three to five days before a match. Prices depend on the fixture, seating area, and the teams involved.

A general view of Besiktas' Tupraş Stadium. (AA Photo)
A general view of Besiktas' Tupraş Stadium. (AA Photo)

Step 3: Enter the stadium

Match day entry is quick and digital:

  • Use your QR code from the Passo app at the entrance
  • If you do not have a smartphone, request a temporary paper pass on-site
  • Arrive at least one hour before kickoff to complete security screening
Front view of Turkish green passport over tree background. (Photo via Turkish Airlines)
Front view of Turkish green passport over tree background. (Photo via Turkish Airlines)

Step 4: Key reminders for international fans

  • Your passport information must be entered accurately when registering
  • A Turkish mobile number may be required for SMS verification
  • Always carry your passport on match day in case of ID checks
  • Be aware of fan zone restrictions—some seating sections are reserved for home supporters
  • Many stadiums offer English signage and staff support
Besiktas fans chanting for their team in Tupras Stadium, Istanbul, Türkiye, accessed on Aug. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)
Besiktas fans chanting for their team in Tupras Stadium, Istanbul, Türkiye, accessed on Aug. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)

Step 5: Experience the match day atmosphere

Türkiye's stadiums offer more than just football.

  • Food, beverages, and merchandise are widely available
  • Scarves, jerseys, and souvenirs can be purchased in and around the venue
  • Security measures are strict but respectful—follow stadium rules and enjoy the game

Türkiye welcomes the world to its stadiums

Attending a Super Lig match is no longer limited to locals. With systems like Passolig and mobile ticketing, Türkiye has opened its football experience to fans from around the world.

Whether you're supporting a major club like Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, or Besiktas, or simply soaking up the energy of the game, you're welcomed into one of the most passionate football cultures in the world.

August 08, 2025 01:21 PM GMT+03:00
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