Best Insurance Options
for Students.
Health insurance is mandatory for obtaining a residence permit in Turkey, as required by the Migration Office. This insurance ensures that you have access to treatment in case of health issues. Unfortunately, some companies use this requirement to mislead students and their families. Make sure to read this guide before purchasing insurance.
In Turkey, there are two types of health insurance: Social Security Institution (SGK) and private health insurance. We’ll look at three categories. For new applicants, the Migration Office grants a three-month period to obtain SGK. Private insurance does not have this grace period, so it's important to be informed when choosing insurance for a residence permit.
Your policy must include:
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Policy number
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Expiration date
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Renewal number
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The following statement: “This policy meets the minimum coverage requirements set out in the Circular dated 16.06.2021 and numbered 2021/8 regarding Health Insurance for Visa and Residence Permit Applications.”
1. State Insurance: Social Security Institution (SGK)
SGK is valid in all public and private hospitals. To get this insurance, you need a Turkish ID number. It’s only available to students within two months of university enrollment. The cost increases with Turkey’s minimum wage and is paid annually at the start of the year; in 2024, the fee is 10,000 TL. SGK is particularly useful for those with chronic illnesses, regular medication needs, or planned surgeries.
However, the main drawback is that SGK may not be accessible if your residence permit is delayed and your Turkish ID arrives late. Also, you can only use SGK in the first year; it cannot be renewed in subsequent years. Students should apply for their residence permit as soon as they arrive in Turkey to avoid delays. YTB (Turkish Government Scholarship) students are already covered by SGK and don’t need to buy additional insurance but should confirm their policy number with SGK.
2. Practical Private Health Insurance
Before purchasing private health insurance, it’s essential to check which hospitals accept your policy, what conditions are covered, and the coverage percentage. Reliable policies typically cost over 4,000 TL per year. Private insurance is only valid in contracted hospitals. Before visiting, check with the hospital’s “Contracted Institutions” department to confirm whether your policy is accepted and the coverage percentage.
In hospitals not contracted with your insurer, you’ll need to pay upfront and later send your invoice and medical report (EPICRIZ) to your insurer for reimbursement, depending on your policy’s terms. You can find the list of contracted hospitals on your insurance provider’s website.
3. Limited-Use Health Insurance
This type of insurance is often used to mislead students. It’s mainly offered by companies that provide residence application services. These policies typically cost around 500 TL per year, and are accepted only for obtaining a residence permit, not for actual medical treatment. Though the policy may claim a value of 2000-3000 TL, it’s sold at a “discounted” 400-500 TL. Companies use this tactic to deceive students and their families. When you try to use this policy for treatment, even at contracted hospitals, it won’t cover your expenses. This type of insurance is only suitable for those without medical needs who may simply need occasional medication from a pharmacy.
Which Insurance Should You Choose?
In our experience, students rarely need frequent medical care. For minor illnesses, students can visit Family Health Centers in each neighborhood for free services. After obtaining a residence permit, students should register at a Family Health Center near their address. While some centers may claim that foreign registrations are not possible, this is usually due to a lack of knowledge. Many universities also have health clinics that offer free services to their students, so purchasing expensive insurance may not be necessary. Private insurance doesn’t cover medications, but SGK does.
How Our Association Can Help
To prevent students and families from being misled, our association has taken steps to verify reliable insurance options. You can get free information by contacting us on WhatsApp at +90 537 946 89 86 to learn which policies are effective. We also have partnerships with companies offering affordable insurance options for students. For more information, feel free to message us at the above number.