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Health Insurance for Expats in Turkey

Learn the international health insurance options for expats living in Turkey and how Turkey's healthcare system works.

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Turkey International Health Insurance for Expats

Most expats moving to Turkey choose to get a private international medical insurance plan because they don’t immediately qualify for public coverage. Unlike local private plans, international plans are designed specifically for the unique circumstances of living abroad.

Global health plans can cover you in every country, offer services in most languages, and be customized to balance your needs with your budget. International health insurance plans can include coverage for:

  • Inpatient
  • Outpatient
  • Vision
  • Dental
  • Maternity
  • Preventative care

You get to choose your insurance provider, level of coverage, and add-on benefits. Unlike a public insurance plan that is handed to you, with a private international plan, you get to customize it to your needs and budget.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Turkey

Cigna Global Insurance Plan

  • Worldwide Coverage (excluding the US)
  • Access to Cigna's trusted network of hospitals and doctors
  • Numerous Deductible Options
  • 24/7 Customer Support
  • 4 Core Insurance Plans
Plan Details

Allianz Care Health Insurance

  • World-leading Health Insurance Provider for Expats
  • Extensive Network With Over 1.9 Million Medical Providers
  • Quick and Efficient Claims Process
  • Maximum Plan benefit up to USD $5,000,000
Plan Details

The Healthcare System in Turkey

Starting in 2003, Turkey celebrated a series of overhaul shifts in the structure of their healthcare system that has empowered them to introduce private health facilities into the country, achieve higher funding for public facilities, and emphasize improvement in specialized care.

Turkey’s huge success story and low-cost services have attracted a flow of medical tourism.

While hospitals and clinics throughout Turkey can provide high-quality care in larger cities, rural areas lack some amenities and services.

Emergency care is free for all patients throughout the country, even if they’re not insured.

Turkey Public Sector and Hospitals

Turkey’s public healthcare sector can provide exceptional care for free under the public health insurance scheme or with a low out-of-pocket fee. Marmara University Hospital, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, and Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center are among the best public hospitals in Turkey.

While there has been significant improvement in urban healthcare in Turkey and there are well-trained physicians all over the country, rural areas often have fewer medical professionals on hand, outdated medical equipment, and fewer doctors who speak English. This is even worse in public facilities.

Expats who use the public sector should expect longer waiting times to receive care, backed-up specialist services, and to need to find translator services to speak with local providers.

Turkey Private Sector and Hospitals

Turkish private hospitals typically have shorter waiting times to receive care, advanced and modern medical equipment, and higher-quality amenities than public hospitals. There are also more English-speaking medical providers in private facilities.

Individuals and expats who have private insurance have access to receive care in the private hospitals and clinics, and it is common for expatriates to prefer care in the private sector.

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Health Insurance Options in Turkey for Expats

Most expatriates and global nomads living in Turkey get a private health insurance plan from an international insurance company. After residing in the country for a year, expats may become eligible for the public universal health insurance plan.

Health insurance is required by law for all foreigners under age 65 who are applying for a Turkey visa.

European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) are not valid in Turkey, so expats from Europe will need to purchase a private health insurance plan or apply for public insurance after living in Turkey for a year.

Public Insurance in Turkey

Turkey’s universal healthcare scheme Social Security Institution (SGK) provides comprehensive and equal coverage to all citizens, no matter their household income. This public insurance is also available to expat residents who have lived in Turkey for a minimum of 12 months.

The scheme requires a contribution of 12.5% of someone’s earnings. Employed residents are expected to pay 5% of their income to the government for the scheme, and their employers contribute the remaining 7.5%. These ratios remain the same for everyone, regardless of their total income.

Here is a sample of some of the benefits covered by Turkey’s public universal insurance:

  • Primary, preventative, and emergency care
  • Diagnostic tests
  • Dental and optical services
  • Pregnancy and maternity care
  • Work accidents and occupational diseases
  • Travel expenses for treatment abroad
  • Treatment abroad
  • Prescription drugs (partial coverage)
  • Rehabilitation services

After living in Turkey for a year, expats can go to their local SGK office to apply for coverage. After contributing to the scheme for 30 days, then expats can seek healthcare.

Private Insurance in Turkey

Most expats rely on private international health insurance during their first year of residency in Turkey. Many also choose to supplement with private insurance even after they are eligible for the SGK scheme so they can access private facilities with newer equipment and shorter wait times.

An international health insurance plan in Turkey would grant an expat the following benefits no matter what country they are in:

  • Inpatient and day-patient care
  • Outpatient and specialist visits
  • Emergency medical care and transportation
  • Vision care
  • Dental care
  • Maternity and infertility treatments
  • Preventative care
  • Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
  • A wider range of prescriptive medications
  • Mental health care and various therapy modalities
  • 24/7 virtual doctor appointments
  • 24/7 support from insurance experts
  • Some travel insurance benefits

With a private international insurance plan, expats can build their own insurance plan by selecting their tier of coverage, deductible/copay contributions, add-on packages, medical provider, and more. 

This freedom of choice enables expats to get coverage for what they need to protect their health and wellbeing. Learn how a broker can help expats pick the right insurance plan for their time in Turkey. The advantages are incredible!

Best Private Insurance for Expats in Turkey

APRIL International, NOW Health International, Expatriate Healthcare, Allianz Care, and William Russell are the best private international health insurance providers for expatriates living and/or working in Turkey.

Let’s learn a little more about each provider below. Feel free to read our article detailing the Top 10 International Health Insurance Providers for more suggestions.

APRIL International

April International is an international insurance provider based in France with more than 30 years of experience in international health insurance and 12 different countries of operation. April offers five tiers of coverage for individuals and families, paperless reimbursement, and 24/7 contact.

Here are some April International highlights:

  • Inpatient treatment
  • Outpatient treatment
  • Emergency repatriation
  • Emergency evacuation
  • Maternity coverage
  • Vision and dental coverage
Plan Details

NOW Health International

NOW Health International offers coverage in over 200 territories, and expats choose NOW Health because of their customer-focused services and extensive worldwide provider network. SimpleCare plans are designed to be cost-effective for expats, and Worldcare plans offer more comprehensive coverage.

Here are some NOW Health International highlights:

  • In-patient and day-patient care
  • Organ transplant
  • Evacuation and repatriation
  • Cancer treatment
  • Rehabilitation
Plan Details

Expatriate Healthcare

Expatriate Group has supported expats abroad since 1997, offering comprehensive health plans for families, individuals, and families. Expatriate Group offers terms from 1–30 years, eliminating the need of annual renewal. Benefits include an easy claims process, no hospital restrictions, and more.

Here are some more highlights of Expatriate Healthcare:

  • 24/7 customer support
  • Comprehensive coverage that begins immediately
  • Multilingual emergency assistance
  • Quick and easy application form
Plan Details

Allianz Care

Allianz Care is a world-leading health insurance provider for expats living globally. As the international health brand of the larger Allianz Partners, Allianz Care offers health, life, critical illness, and disability insurance around the globe in 75 countries and over 58 languages.

Here are some more Allianz highlights:

  • Inpatient costs
  • Diagnostics and laboratory tests
  • Surgeries
  • Ambulances transport
  • Cancer treatment
Plan Details

William Russell

William Russell is a top provider of global health packages catering to expat individuals, digital nomads, families, and students. Those living in Denmark will appreciate William Russell’s 6 zones of coverage that grant you the control to customize your premiums and where you get coverage.

Here are some more William Russell highlights:

  • Hospitalization treatment
  • Cancer treatment and care
  • Emergency evacuations
  • Diagnostics
  • Post-hospital physiotherapy
Plan Details

Consider This When Picking Health Insurance in Turkey

Expats in Turkey who are picking their health insurance plan should consider Turkey’s residence permit requirements for health insurance, whether or not they want access to private healthcare, and how likely they are to travel outside of Turkey.

Here’s our list of 10 concerns expats should consider when deciding which provider and plan is right for you:

  1. Coverage for Residency Requirements: Expats applying for a residence permit in Turkey must have valid health insurance. The policy must meet the minimum coverage standards set by Turkish authorities, whether it's a local or international plan.
  2. Local vs. International Insurance: Local Turkish insurance providers offer affordable plans accepted for residency, but coverage is often limited to basic services and may not include private hospitals. International insurance offers broader protection and access to high-quality care, but at a higher cost.
  3. Access to Private Healthcare: Private hospitals in Turkey offer high standards of care and English-speaking staff, but they are expensive without insurance. Make sure your policy includes access to these facilities, especially in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
  4. Direct Billing and Claims: To avoid upfront payments, look for insurance plans with a strong direct billing network in Turkey. If direct billing isn’t available, ensure the reimbursement process is simple and efficient, ideally with digital claim submissions.
  5. Emergency and Evacuation Coverage: While Turkey has good emergency services, your policy should include coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation in case of serious illness or accident, especially if you travel frequently or live far from major hospitals.
  6. Pre-Existing Conditions: Some local insurers may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions or impose long waiting periods. International plans are often more flexible, though they may come at a higher premium.
  7. Prescription Drugs and Routine Care: Check whether your insurance covers the cost of prescription medications and routine services like dental, vision, and annual checkups. These aren’t always included in basic Turkish health plans.
  8. Customer Support and Language Access: Choose a provider that offers 24/7 customer service in English. Navigating the healthcare system in a foreign country is much easier when help is just a call away.
  9. Travel Flexibility: If you plan to visit neighboring countries or return home often, an international policy that includes regional or worldwide coverage will give you more freedom and peace of mind.
  10. Provider Reputation: Stick with well-known insurers with strong reputations for expat coverage and reliable service in Turkey. A provider with a good track record can make a big difference in both emergencies and everyday care.

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Health & Safety Tips for Travelers in Turkey

Travelers in Turkey should stay informed of regional political news, be cautious in crowds and tourist sites to avoid pick-pocketing, and dress respectfully in mosques and rural towns to remain safe, healthy, and considerate of local customs.

Here’s our list of 10 health and safety tips for travelers visiting and living in turkey:

  1. Stay Informed About Regional Safety: While most of Turkey is safe for travelers, some areas near the Syrian and Iraqi borders can be volatile. Always check travel advisories and avoid regions with heightened security concerns.
  2. Be Cautious in Crowded Areas: Terrorism and petty crime have targeted busy places in the past, such as tourist sites and public transit. Stay alert in crowds, avoid demonstrations, and follow local news and embassy guidance.
  3. Practice Safe Food and Water Habits: Food hygiene in Turkey is generally good, especially in urban areas, but stick to well-cooked meals and bottled water if you're unsure about the local tap water. Street food is popular and usually safe when it’s hot and freshly prepared.
  4. Protect Yourself from the Sun: In summer, temperatures in many regions can be intense. Wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive sun exposure, especially during peak midday hours.
  5. Use Reliable Transportation: Taxis should be from official stands or booked via apps like BiTaksi to avoid scams. If driving, be aware that traffic can be chaotic, particularly in large cities, and road conditions may vary in rural areas.
  6. Watch for Pickpockets: In tourist-heavy areas like Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar or public transport hubs, keep an eye on your belongings. Use a money belt or anti-theft bag and avoid flashing valuables.
  7. Respect Cultural Norms: Turkey blends secular and conservative cultures. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or rural towns, and be respectful of local customs, especially during religious observances like Ramadan.
  8. Know Emergency Numbers: Turkey's general emergency number is 112, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Many urban hospitals have English-speaking staff, but it's good to know the name and address of your nearest clinic.
  9. Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations should be current, and travelers may consider additional vaccines like Hepatitis A, depending on travel plans. It’s best to consult a travel health clinic before your trip.
  10. Carry Travel Insurance: Healthcare quality is good, but unexpected costs or emergencies can arise. Travel insurance with coverage for medical care, cancellations, and theft is highly recommended for peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do U.S. expats need insurance when living in Turkey?

U.S. expats need health insurance to live in Turkey, especially if applying for a residence permit which requires proof of valid coverage. While public healthcare is available, many expats choose private or international insurance for broader access and quality care.

How much does international health insurance cost in Turkey?

International health insurance in Turkey typically costs between $100 to $400 USD per month, depending on age, coverage level, and insurer. Comprehensive plans with global coverage and evacuation benefits are on the higher end of the range.

Is healthcare free for foreigners in Turkey?

Healthcare is not free for foreigners in Turkey. Expats and travelers must pay out-of-pocket or have valid health insurance. Public healthcare is subsidized for Turkish citizens and residents, but foreigners need insurance to access services affordably.

Conclusion: Compare Plans and Quotes Now

Now you know how an international health insurance plan can benefit you during your time in Turkey, and you should have a good idea of some of the best providers who offer care there.

Since it can feel overwhelming to know which provider and plan to go with, consulting with a professional who knows the market and the options can simplify and speed up the process. There are many benefits for using a broker when getting insurance, including saving money and time!

As an insurance broker with over 20 years of experience in the industry, Pacific Prime offers a wide spectrum of health insurance policies. From family insurance and maternity coverage to travel insurance, we are more than capable of finding the perfect plan that balances your budget with your needs.

Get a free quote now with our online comparison tool that features over 50,000 insurance plans. For tailored, impartial advice, contact our team of expert insurance advisors today!

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