Healthcare and insurance in Türkiye: the policy you need for a permit
For stays longer than 90 days health insurance is compulsory: either a private foreigner policy or the General Health Insurance (GSS) through the SGK.
Access to the GSS normally requires a period of lawful residence and other conditions; for most people a private policy is faster. Families can often cover several members on one policy.
Types of cover
- Private foreigner health insurance — the practical route for a permit.
- GSS (SGK) — after lawful residence and qualifying conditions.
- Employer insurance — alongside a work permit.
- Supplementary private cover — on top of the GSS.
Comparison
| Point | Private policy | GSS (SGK) |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted for a permit | yes | yes, under conditions |
| Start | immediately | after lawful residence |
| Coverage | policy-dependent | state coverage |
| Cost | premium by age | regular contribution |
| Family | family/group discount possible | conditions apply |
Clinics by language
- Istanbul, Antalya, Alanya and Izmir have foreign-patient departments.
- Beyond Turkish, English, German and Arabic are often spoken.
- Book through the hospital's international office before the appointment.
Frequent questions
- Is insurance compulsory for a permit?
- Yes, for stays over 90 days; a private policy or the GSS is accepted.
- Can I join the GSS straight away?
- Usually only after a period of lawful residence and qualifying conditions; ask the SGK for your case.
- Can foreigners use state hospitals?
- Yes, on a paid basis; emergencies are treated first.
- Can I add my family to a policy?
- Yes, family/group policies are usually cheaper per person.
- Which policy is best for a nomad?
- A private policy matching the permit period; check that the insurer is accepted by the migration office.
GSS conditions and contribution amounts change yearly: for binding details see the SGK and the Ministry of Health.