Understanding Health Insurance for Expats in Turkey
Turkey is a popular choice for expatriates thanks to its rich history, warm hospitality, and affordability. Anyone applying for a visa must have medical insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay. Therefore, it is essential to understand how health insurance for Expats in Turkey works before relocating.
In 2002, the Turkish government launched a nationwide effort to modernize healthcare. Before these reforms, fewer than two-thirds of residents had health insurance, and access to primary care varied significantly across the population. Through the Health Transformation Program (HTP), supported by the World Bank, Turkey expanded coverage, upgraded facilities, and achieved all health-related Millennium Development Goals ahead of the 2015 deadline. The country now provides far broader and more consistent access to care.
Despite this progress, quality can vary from one region to another. Turkey has 35 hospitals accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI), but significant differences remain between public and private hospitals, especially in rural areas. Expatriates generally prefer private hospitals for shorter wait times, more modern facilities, and better access to English-speaking providers.
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Overview of the Turkish Healthcare System
Public Healthcare (SGK)
Turkey introduced universal health insurance through the Social Security Institution (SGK) in 2003. After one year of residency, foreign nationals may apply for SGK coverage by visiting their local office. Applicants must demonstrate that they are not insured in their home country and must contribute to SGK for at least 30 days before using our services.
SGK covers a range of essential services, including doctor visits, preventive care, childbirth, and emergency treatment. Patients are responsible for a portion of medication costs.
Private Healthcare
Turkey’s private healthcare sector is well-regarded and rapidly expanding. Private hospitals offer:
- Shorter wait times
- More modern facilities and equipment
- Greater availability of English-speaking medical staff
- Higher service levels overall
The main drawback is cost. SGK does not fully cover private hospital treatment, and patients may face significant out-of-pocket expenses without additional insurance.
Regional Differences
While major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir offer excellent medical facilities, many rural public hospitals struggle with outdated equipment, limited amenities, and overcrowding. These differences motivate many expatriates to enroll in private or international health insurance plans.
Health Insurance Options for Expats in Turkey
Foreigners typically have three options for health coverage: SGK (public), local private plans, or international private medical insurance.
SGK (Public Health Insurance)
Pros:
- Affordable and widely accepted
- Covers many essential medical services
Cons:
- Not accepted at most private hospitals
- Long wait times in many areas
- Limited English-speaking support
Local Private Health Insurance
Local plans offer an affordable way to access private hospitals, but networks are usually limited. Coverage varies significantly across insurers, and benefits are typically designed for Turkish citizens rather than globally mobile expatriates.
International Private Medical Insurance
International plans are the preferred choice for most expats because they offer:
- Access to private hospitals in Turkey
- Worldwide coverage
- Shorter wait times and higher-quality facilities
- Multilingual customer support
- Coverage for care outside Turkey
These plans provide the flexibility and security many foreigners need when living abroad.
Cost of Health Insurance in Turkey
SGK Costs
Turkey’s public healthcare system is funded jointly by workers, employers, and the government.
- Employees pay 5% of their earnings
- Employers contribute 7.5%
- Foreigners not working in Turkey pay 24% of the national gross minimum wage to participate.
SGK fully covers emergency care, childbirth, and many preventive services. Patients typically pay 20% of medication costs (10% for retirees).
International Insurance Costs
International health insurance ranges from $50 per month for basic plans to $1,000 per month for comprehensive global coverage. Cost depends on:
Best International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Turkey
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
IMG Global Prima Medical Insurance
- Five flexible plan levels with optional add-ons
- Choose your coverage area based on where you live or travel
- Freedom to select your healthcare provider anywhere in the world
Special Circumstances for Foreigners in Turkey
Can Americans Get Health Insurance in Turkey?
Yes. U.S. citizens may apply for SGK after one year of residency in Turkey. Before that, they must purchase private insurance. Even after enrolling in SGK, many Americans continue to use international insurance for access to private hospitals, as SGK benefits do not fully apply to these facilities.
Health Insurance for International Students
SGK automatically covers students receiving a Turkish State scholarship. Other international students may apply for SGK within three months of registering at their university. For access to private facilities and English-speaking providers, many choose international student plans.
StudentSecure Insurance
- Provides Medical, Dental, and Evacuation Benefits
- Keep your coverage when your studies last multiple years
- Medical providers are available in over 130 countries worldwide
Health Insurance for Short-Term Visitors
Short-term travelers often benefit most from travel medical insurance, which provides emergency medical care, evacuation, and repatriation.
Group Medical Insurance in Turkey for International Employees
Global group medical insurance for international employees, volunteers, remote teams, and expatriates.
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Navigating Medical Care in Turkey
Finding a Family Doctor
To use SGK, residents must register at their local office and choose a primary care physician. Private insurance providers offer lists of partner clinics and hospitals.
Accessing Hospital Care
Appointments can be made online through the hospital’s website. Due to disparities in service levels between rural and urban centers, expats often seek treatment at larger hospitals in major cities. Private hospitals offer shorter wait times and more English-speaking providers.
Emergency Services in Turkey
Dial 112 for emergency medical assistance. Both public and private hospitals operate 24-hour emergency departments. Emergency care is available to everyone in Turkey, though private hospitals may charge an admission fee.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes from top insurers
- Get expert advice at no additional cost
- Find the right plan for your needs and budget
Amanda Hoffman is an award-winning marketing and communications professional with a background in journalism. She works with small businesses, nonprofits, and political organizations, sharing expertise in healthcare, travel, and international communications.
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