The M-67 restriction code is one of the most serious international restrictions in the passport and security systems of the Republic of Turkey. This code is imposed due to Interpol notices or suspicions of international fraud. The individual’s exit from the country, passport use, or border crossings may be restricted due to this code. So what exactly is the M-67 restriction code, who does it apply to, and how can it be removed? In this guide, we explain all the details step by step.
What is the M-67 Restriction Code?
The M-67 restriction code is an international fraud restriction code processed by the Turkish National Police and Interpol units. This code is entered into the passport system based on notifications made by Interpol or international judicial requests. The purpose is to prevent individuals alleged to be involved in international fraud, financial crimes, or forgery from leaving the country or entering Turkey.
This code is typically applied as a result of Interpol Red Notice, Blue Notice, or Green Notice alerts. Therefore, M-67 is valid not only in Turkey’s registration system but also in the registration systems of many countries within the scope of international cooperation.
Features of the M-67 Code
- Source: Interpol and the Turkish National Police’s International Law and Crime Prevention units.
- Scope: Fraud, money laundering, financial forgery, or international commercial crimes.
- Nature: It is an internationally recognized security restriction.
- Application Area: Passport procedures, visa checks, border crossings, airport inspections.
Individuals with an active M-67 restriction code usually encounter the warning “Your travel has been restricted for security reasons” when they wish to travel abroad.
Reasons for Assigning the M-67 Restriction Code
The M-67 code can be assigned for various legal and intelligence reasons. The most common reasons are listed below:
1. Interpol Fraud Reports
Reports of “Fraud / Scam / Financial Crime” made by foreign countries through Interpol may result in the individual being flagged in the system with the M-67 code. This is typically associated with international fraud or fake investment projects.
2. International Judicial Requests
When a foreign country’s judicial authorities request information, arrest, or extradition from Turkey, the M-67 code may be applied as a temporary security measure.
3. Financial Crimes and Suspicion of Money Laundering
In financial crime investigations conducted by banks, financial institutions, or MASAK, the M-67 restriction code may be applied if the individual is registered in the Interpol database.
4. Conducting Transactions Using Fake IDs or Fake Documents
If the use of forged documents is detected in international trade, investment, or visa procedures, the individual may be placed in the “Interpol Fraud Alert” category.
5. Protective Measures Under Interpol Cooperation
Even if a person has not been directly charged, they may be temporarily included under code M-67 as a “suspect or connected person” within the scope of investigations conducted in other countries.
How Can You Find Out Your M-67 Restriction Code?
The M-67 code is usually entered into the system without the person’s knowledge, and they only notice it when applying for a passport or at the airport. However, there are ways to find out in advance:
1. Turkish National Police (EGM) Application
You can find out whether there is a restriction code on your passport or registered in your name by applying to the Passport Department of the Provincial Police Directorate where you reside.
2. Inquiry via CİMER
CİMER You can find out whether there is an Interpol-related restriction registered in your name by submitting a written application through CİMER.
3. Official Inquiry Through a Lawyer
An authorized attorney may formally inquire about the origin and justification of the M-67 code by submitting a written application to the General Directorate of Security, the Ministry of Justice, and the Ministry of the Interior.
How to Remove the M-67 Restriction Code?
Removing the M-67 code is a more complex process than removing other restriction codes. This is because this code may appear not only in Turkey but also in the Interpol system. The following steps should be followed:
1. Learn About the Source Institution
First, it must be determined which country or institution requested the M-67 code. The source may be Turkey, a foreign country, or directly the Interpol General Secretariat.
2. Apply with an Official Petition
You may submit a petition to the General Directorate of Security or the Ministry of Justice requesting an explanation of the grounds for the restriction and its removal if it is erroneous or unjust.
3. Initiate Legal Proceedings Through a Lawyer
An experienced international lawyer prepared a detailed defense dossier regarding the M-67 code:
- You can file an annulment lawsuit in the administrative court.
- You may file an appeal with the Ministry of Justice or the Interpol Turkey Office.
- If necessary, an international appeal may be submitted to the CCF (Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files).
4. Interpol CCF Application (International Level)
If the M-67 code originates from Interpol, an appeal can be made through the CCF (Interpol Data Protection Commission). The application must be submitted in English or French, and the applicant must prove that the data has been processed unlawfully. The process takes an average of 9-12 months.
5. Administrative and Judicial Proceedings
If the M-67 code originates from Turkey, a lawsuit may be filed in the Administrative Court requesting its cancellation on the grounds of “violation of freedom of movement.”
M-67 Restriction Code Removal Period
- 3-6 months: For administrative procedures originating in Turkey,
- 9-12 months: In Interpol applications (via CCF),
- 1-2 years: In cases where international legal proceedings are ongoing.
The duration may vary depending on the response speed of the relevant institutions, the nature of the case, and the Interpol investigation schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding M-67 Restriction Code
Is the M-67 code an accusation?
No. This code does not indicate that the person is definitely guilty, but that their name has been mentioned in connection with an international fraud investigation.
Can I leave the country without the code being lifted?
No. Passport procedures are blocked while the code is active.
Can the code be reinstalled after it has been removed?
Yes, it can be reprocessed if the same or a new Interpol notice is issued.
What is the purpose of an Interpol CCF application?
It is an international appeal mechanism used to prove that personal data has been processed unlawfully and that restrictions have been imposed due to incorrect information.
Can code be removed without a lawyer?
It is possible, but difficult. International correspondence, translations, and legal petitions require professional assistance.
The Role of the Interpol Lawyer
Interpol lawyers play a critical role in international restrictions such as the M-67 code:
- Reviews Interpol records and identifies incorrect or incomplete data,
- submits a formal objection to the CCF,
- Conducts correspondence with Turkish authorities,
- Prepares defenses based on international law.
Methods for Protection Against M-67 Code
- Protect your identity in international financial transactions and avoid transactions that may raise suspicion of fraud.
- Monitor lawsuits filed against you in foreign countries.
- Be cautious about allegations of forgery in official documents or investment agreements.
- If you believe you are listed in Interpol records, have a preliminary inquiry conducted through a lawyer.
In conclusion, the M-67 restriction code is a serious restriction associated with international fraud, financial crimes, or Interpol notices. However, it is possible to have this code removed with the correct documents, professional legal support, and official applications.
