Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Turkey?

When planning to move to Turkey as an expat or digital nomad, one crucial aspect to consider is health insurance. Turkey requires visitors staying longer than 90 days to have health insurance that meets specific requirements for obtaining residency. The insurance policy must cover the entire duration of your stay and provide a minimum coverage of 30,000 Turkish Liras (TL) for inpatient treatment, 150 TL for outpatient treatment, and 2,000 TL for funeral expenses. Additionally, the policy should cover emergency care, intensive care, and repatriation costs.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Yes, expat health insurance typically meets the requirements set by Turkey for residency purposes. However, it is essential to ensure that your policy covers the necessary minimum amounts and includes the required types of coverage. It's crucial to check the fine print of your policy to confirm that it meets the Turkish government's criteria. Some expat health insurance providers may even offer tailored plans for those moving to Turkey, ensuring that you have the necessary coverage.

Which Local Health Insurers Offer This Type of Insurance?

Several local health insurers in Turkey offer plans that meet the residency requirements. Some of the prominent local insurers include Anadolu Sigorta, AXA Sigorta, Allianz Sigorta, and Mapfre Sigorta. These companies provide various health insurance plans that cater to both local residents and expats. When choosing a local insurer, it's essential to compare the coverage options, costs, and reviews to find the best fit for your needs. Additionally, ensure that the policy you select meets the minimum requirements for residency in Turkey.

Advice from Expats in Turkey about Health Insurance

Expats living in Turkey share valuable insights into obtaining health insurance and finding a suitable plan. They recommend looking for policies that cover both private and public hospitals, as this can significantly improve your access to healthcare services. Additionally, they advise considering plans that offer English-speaking customer support to ease communication. It's also a good idea to choose a policy that provides coverage for pre-existing conditions, if applicable. Lastly, expats suggest thoroughly reading and understanding the policy's fine print to ensure that you are fully aware of the coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions.