Health Insurance for Foreigners in Turkey 2026: Private, SGK & Costs

According to Turkish Law No. 6458, valid health insurance is mandatory for foreigners in Turkey when applying for or renewing a residence permit for studies, work, investment, or medical treatment. This ensures access to healthcare services and compliance with legal residency requirements.

There are two main health insurance options for foreigners: compulsory private health insurance, which is required for residence permit applications, and voluntary public health insurance (SGK), available to eligible legal residents after a waiting period. Private insurance offers faster access to private hospitals, while SGK provides broader coverage through public healthcare facilities.

This guide explains the different types of health insurance in Turkey for foreigners, the best options available, and updated health insurance costs for 2026.

At Aloikametsigorta, we connect you with trusted health insurance providers, help you choose the most suitable plan, and guide you through the entire residence permit process to ensure your insurance and residence application are completed smoothly and accepted without issues.

What is the Health Insurance System in Turkey?

Turkey’s public health insurance system, SGK (Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu),  also known as General Health Insurance (GHI or Genel Sağlık Sigortası), is a government-managed program overseen by the Social Security Institution. It provides universal and affordable healthcare coverage for Turkish citizens and legally employed residents.

Foreigners can access SGK only if they are officially registered employees or meet specific residence requirements. Most foreigners, including students, tourists, and expats, need private or international health insurance before becoming eligible for SGK.

The SGK system is funded through premiums and taxes and offers free or low-cost medical care in public hospitals, ensuring that long-term residents and citizens have continuous access to essential healthcare services.

Why Foreigners in Turkey Need Health Insurance

Health insurance is a legal requirement for foreigners applying for or renewing a residence permit (İkamet) under Law No. 6458. Beyond compliance, it protects foreigners from high medical expenses and ensures access to both public and private hospitals for emergencies, surgeries, and inpatient care.

Types of Health Insurance for Foreigners in Turkey

Health insurance options in Turkey vary based on the length of stay, residence permit type, and individual healthcare needs. Foreigners can choose from several insurance options, each designed to meet specific legal requirements and coverage preferences.

1. Private Health Insurance (Foreigner Health Insurance)

Private health insurance for foreigners in Turkey is a mandatory, legally required policy for obtaining or renewing a residence permit, covering health expenses from accidents and illnesses. It provides access to private hospitals with faster, often English-speaking care, with costs varying based on age, coverage scope, and insurance provider.

2. SGK (Social Security Institution – Public Insurance)

Turkey has provided universal health insurance through their Social Security Institution (SGK) since 2003, it is available for citizens and foreigners after one year of residency. SGK is Turkey’s public health insurance system and is available to foreigners who have legally resided in Turkey for at least one year with a residence permit and do not have coverage in their home country.  Foreigners can access SGK either through employment with a Turkish company or by paying voluntary monthly premiums under the General Health Insurance (GSS) program.  SGK provides coverage in state hospitals and selected private clinics, usually at a lower cost than private insurance. However, users may experience longer wait times and limited hospital choice compared to private plans.

3. International and Expat Health Insurance

International or expat health insurance is optional rather than mandatory; it can be chosen instead of private health insurance or SGK, and it is especially useful for traveling outside Turkey. This type of insurance is designed for foreigners living in Turkey long-term who want comprehensive, high-quality coverage.

It typically covers both private and public hospitals in Turkey and often includes international portability, allowing expatriates to access healthcare abroad. Expat insurance is ideal for those seeking flexible and extensive medical protection beyond the minimum requirements for residence permits.

4. Travel Insurance (Short Term Health Insurance)

Travel or short-term insurance is designed for tourists, short-term visitors, or foreigners staying for a few months. It typically covers emergency care, medications, outpatient visits, and limited inpatient treatment. This type of insurance does not meet the legal requirement for residence permits but ensures basic protection during short stays in Turkey.

Best Health Insurance for Foreigners in Turkey

The best health insurance for foreigners in Turkey depends on your individual needs, whether you’re looking for a quick plan to obtain a residence permit, affordable coverage, or comprehensive medical care. 

Private health insurance is the best for residents, as it is mandatory for obtaining a residence permit (İkamet) and offers reliable coverage at a relatively affordable cost. 

For those seeking global coverage, including protection while traveling or access to healthcare abroad, international or expat health insurance is the best option, providing extensive benefits, though it is generally more expensive. 

After one year of legal residence, foreigners become eligible for public health insurance (SGK), which is often the best option for families. Under a single premium, SGK covers spouses and children under 18 and provides free or subsidized care at public hospitals and some private clinics.

Private Health Insurance in Turkey for Foreigners

It is the most popular health insurance for foreigners who need to apply for or renew a Turkish residence permit (İkamet).

All foreigners who stay in Turkey more than 90 days or plan for a long-term stay need a residence that requires first obtaining private health insurance, regardless of whether their residence is based on studying, working, investment, or other long-term permits. 

This insurance is essential for the Immigration Department (e-İkamet) application and is typically valid for one year, ensuring compliance with Turkish regulations while providing access to quality healthcare in private, contracted hospitals.

Private health insurance generally covers inpatient treatment with high or unlimited limits and outpatient services, including doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and consultations. Coverage is usually valid for one year and requires annual renewal. Plans typically cover 100% of inpatient treatment costs at contracted hospitals (up to certain limits) and 60% to 80% of outpatient services.

While health insurance is generally not mandatory for applicants under 18 or over 65, it is still highly recommended to protect against high out-of-pocket medical costs.

Types of Private Health Insurance for Foreigners

1. Residence Permit Health Insurance (Private): Designed to meet minimum government requirements for obtaining a residence permit (e-İkamet). It is generally low-cost, often with limited outpatient coverage but good inpatient coverage.
2. Comprehensive Private Health Insurance: Offers broader, higher-limit coverage for both inpatient (surgeries, hospital stays) and outpatient (doctor visits, lab tests) services, typically in private hospitals.

Private Health Insurance vs SGK for Foreigners After 1 Year in Turkey

Once a foreigner with residence has completed one year of legal residence in Turkey, you become eligible for SGK, the country’s public health insurance. At this stage, when renewing your residence permit (İkamet), you have two main options.

1. Private Insurance: You can choose to renew your private health insurance, which continues to provide faster access to private hospitals and more comprehensive coverage, including outpatient services.

Private insurance often includes English-speaking support and shorter wait times, making it convenient for those who prioritize ease of care. The main downside is that it is more expensive than SGK, and once you are eligible for public insurance, private coverage is no longer legally required.

2. SGK: Alternatively, you can switch to SGK, which offers lower-cost coverage through state hospitals and some private clinics. SGK meets all legal requirements for residence permit renewal, making it a reliable choice for those focused on cost and compliance. 

However, users may face longer wait times in public hospitals and have a more limited choice of healthcare facilities compared to private insurance.

In general, if your priority is cost savings and legal compliance, SGK is sufficient. On the other hand, if you value convenience, speed, and broader coverage, continuing with private or international health insurance may be the better option.

Health Insurance in Turkey for Foreigners Prices 2026 Updates

Table of residency health insurance cost in Turkey 2026

In 2026, the cost of health insurance for foreigners in Turkey depends on the type of insurance—private, SGK (public), student, international, or travel—along with factors such as age, residency status, insurance provider, and employment.

Student insurance offers the lowest rates, followed by standard private insurance for younger age groups. Premiums increase for older individuals due to higher medical requirements.

While private insurance often has a lower upfront cost compared to SGK, it does not automatically cover the entire family and is typically paid annually. In return, it provides faster access to high-quality private hospitals. SGK, on the other hand, allows monthly payments and covers family members but may involve longer wait times.

For 2026, the minimum annual cost for residency-related private insurance in Turkey ranges from 4,000 to 6,500 TL ($90–$125) for individuals aged 16–55. For older age groups, such as those over 50, premiums start around 8,500 TL (approximately $200+).

1. Private Health Insurance Cost 2026

Standard private health insurance for foreigners in Turkey varies by age and coverage (basic or comprehensive) with basic plans often starting around $40–$200 per year for younger individuals and up to $200+ for older adults, 

while more comprehensive packages range from $500–$700 for basic full coverage to $1,200–$3,000+ for VIP plans. 

Unlike public SGK insurance, private insurance requires each family member to be insured separately, which increases overall cost.

2. Public Health Insurance (SGK) Cost in 2026

The cost of SGK, Turkey’s public health insurance, depends on the payment method. If you choose monthly payments, premiums typically range from $45 to $90 per month. Paying annually brings the total to approximately $540–$1,080 per family. SGK provides coverage for the insured and their dependents, offering access to state hospitals and selected private clinics, making it a cost-effective option for long-term residents.

3. Student Insurance Cost in 2026

This is the cheapest option, ranging between $20 and $40 per year, suitable for university students holding residence permits.

4. International Health Insurance Cost in 2026

These are the most expensive types of health insurance, offering extensive coverage in Turkey and abroad. Prices range from $500 to $1,500+ per year, depending on age and benefits.

Apply for Your Residence Insurance in Turkey Smoothly with Aloikametsigorta

Requirements for Health Insurance Application:

1. Choose a Turkish-licensed insurer.
2. 2. Prepare and submit the required documents, including a copy of your passport and Turkish address details.
3. Pay the premium and receive your policy, often issued digitally within minutes.
4. Renewal: When it’s time to renew, you can continue with your current policy or switch plans if needed.

Get expert support from Aloikametsigorta. We help you select the right plan, submit documents correctly, and ensure your policy meets all residence permit (İkamet) requirements.

With years of experience and partnerships with licensed insurers, Aloikametsigorta ensures that your health insurance and residence permit applications are handled efficiently and correctly. Our experts guide you through every step, helping you select the right plan, complete paperwork accurately, and meet all legal requirements for your residence permit (İkamet).

Applying through Aloikametsigorta gives you direct access to trusted insurers and expert support, making the process fast, simple, and stress-free.

FAQs About Health Insurance in Turkey for Foreigners

Can foreigners go to the hospital in Turkey?

Yes, foreigners can absolutely access hospital care in Turkey, which offers high-quality, affordable, and widely available medical services for tourists, residents, and medical travelers

Is healthcare in Turkey cheap?

Yes, healthcare in Turkey is considered very affordable, generally costing 50—70% less than in the US, UK, or EU for both private and public services.

How much is health insurance in Turkey?
Health insurance in Turkey for residency is affordable, generally costing between 2,000 to 18,000 TL annually, depending heavily on age, with lower costs for younger individuals.