Health Insurance

All students intending to study in Turkey must have valid health insurance throughout their education. Health insurance is required to obtain a residence permit in Turkey. Please note that travel insurance policies will not be accepted by the Directorate General of Migration Management. While your health insurance does not necessarily need to be purchased in Turkey, it must be valid and applicable within Turkey.

• Students who are citizens of EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland can apply for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card allows you to receive medical care in Turkey. You can apply for the EHIC card for free by contacting your local health authority / national health service or health insurance provider. It may take a few weeks for your card to arrive, so make sure to apply before coming to Turkey.

Health Insurance System in Turkey

In Turkey, there are two main types of health insurance: General Health Insurance (GHI) provided by the government and private health insurance provided by private insurance companies.

General Health Insurance (GSS)

• General Health Insurance (GSS) is a health insurance provided by the Social Security Institution (SGK) with the aim of providing health coverage to every individual residing in Turkey. Foreign national students who wish to have GSS can apply to SGK within the first 3 months from their university registration date, even if they have not yet obtained a foreigner identity number.

• Students with GSS can benefit from free services at state hospitals; however, there might be language barriers at these hospitals. GSS may also provide discounts at some private hospitals, but the amount you pay at these hospitals can vary based on their pricing policies. Some private hospitals have comprehensive agreements with SGK, while others may include additional expenses not covered by SGK insurance. It is important to review the agreements between SGK and the private hospitals you plan to visit and pay attention to these details before making appointments.

• Monthly premiums are required for GSS. Payments can be made through banks, ATMs, and online banking. Interest may accrue on unpaid premiums. You can seek support from the International Office regarding application processes.

• Foreign national students who miss the initial three-month period from their first university registration date can apply to the SGK Centers in provinces or districts after completing one year of residence in Turkey to request enrollment in the general health insurance system. Individuals considered as general health insurance holders under this framework are required to pay monthly premiums determined for the respective year. General health insurance will continue as long as they reside in Turkey and cannot be terminated unless they have other insurance coverage during this period.