Understanding the Health System in Turkey

Detailed Directions for a Foreigner to Obtain residency Status in Turkey

• Check Eligibility
  • Determine the type of residence permit suitable for you (short-term, long-term, family, student, etc.).
  • Ensure you have a valid passport with an expiration date at least 60 days beyond the duration of the permit you apply for.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the nearest tax office (Vergi Dairesi) in Turkey.
  • Bring your original passport and a photocopy of the identification page.
  • Fill out the required form and submit it to the tax office to receive your tax number.
• Get health insurance
  • Purchase health insurance from a provider that is valid in Turkey.
  • Ensure the policy covers the duration of your intended stay.
• Gather Required Documents
  • Passport (original and photocopy).
  • Four biometric photographs.
  • Application form (can be downloaded from the Directorate General of Migration Management website: https://en.goc.gov.tr/).
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources (bank statements, etc.).
  • Health insurance policy.
  • Additional documents based on the type of residence permit (e.g., work contract for work permit, acceptance letter for student permit).
• Make an Appointment Online
  • Visit the Directorate General of Migration Management website: https://en.goc.gov.tr/.
  • Navigate to the 'Appointment' section and select your province.
  • Choose the type of residence permit you are applying for and select an available date and time.
• Submit Application
  • Arrive at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management on your appointment date.
  • Submit your application documents and pay the application fee.
  • Provide biometric data (fingerprints and signature).
• Wait for Approval
  • The processing time varies depending on the type of permit and the workload of the migration office.
  • You can check the status of your application on the Directorate General of Migration Management website.
• Register Your Address
  • Once your residence permit is approved, register your address at the local civil registration office (Nüfus Müdürlü?ü).
  • Bring your passport, residence permit card, and a copy of your rental agreement or proof of residence.
• Renew Your Residence Permit (if necessary)
  • Residence permits are typically issued for a specific duration. Ensure you renew your permit before it expires.
  • Follow the same application process for renewal, making sure to gather any additional documents required for renewal.

These steps provide a comprehensive guide to obtaining residency status in Turkey. Always check the official websites for the most up-to-date information and requirements.

Insider Tips from Expats in Turkey: How to Navigate the Health System

"It's is essential that you have health care insurance. Axa as far as I know is the only company that will insure you over the age of 70. This is only possible if you had had a policy with them from I believe 65 years old," commented one expat living in Istanbul, Turkey.

"Healthcare services in Turkey are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare in Turkey is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in Turkey can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local health authority and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access public healthcare services at a reduced cost," mentioned one expat living in Turkey.

"There are several hospitals near where I live. These however are private ones. I myself use Baskent University hospital, which I have found very good. Also their prices are more reasonable than some of the others. The care I received there has been first class. Also there is no long waiting time if you require an operation. As for emergency services, my wife received treatment with only a short wait to see a doctor, apart from that I cannot say," commented one expat living in Istanbul, Turkey.

"In Turkey, emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 112 from any phone. This number is free of charge and connects you to the emergency services. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene," mentioned one expat living in Turkey.