Patricia Casaburi
Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program offers more than just a second passport, it also grants access to the country’s affordable and high-quality healthcare system.
Whether you prefer public healthcare through the General Health Insurance (GSS) or private healthcare with shorter wait times and advanced facilities, Turkey Citizenship by Investment healthcare options ensure you and your family are well taken care of from the moment you arrive.
In this guide you will learn about:
Turkey Healthcare System Overview
Healthcare in Turkey is divided into public and private sectors. The public healthcare system is run through universal healthcare through the General Health Insurance (GSS). The overall public health system is managed by the Social Security Institution (SGK).
Private healthcare in Turkey is readily available to foreign nationals, with private health insurance being mandatory for those working and residing in turkey. There are a variety of options available with varying plans depending on your needs. Luckily, compared with western Europe and the US, private insurance is significantly less expensive in Turkey.
Who can access the Turkish healthcare system?
If you want to access the universal healthcare system in Turkey, you need to obtain Turkish citizenship. One of the most popular routes to obtain citizenship in Turkey is through the Turkey citizenship by investment program.
Applicants can obtain citizenship in 3-6 months, with various investment options available, including Turkish real estate, bank deposits, starting a business, investing in government bonds, making a capital investment, and creating 50 full time jobs.
Alternatively, if you have been living in Turkey for one year with a valid residence permit you can also access public healthcare. However, it’s important to note that residency permit applicants are required to obtain private health insurance before moving to Turkey.
Read our Turkey Citizenship by Investment Guide
Healthcare for Turkish Citizenship by Investment Applicants
What is covered by the public healthcare system?
There are several healthcare benefits of Turkey Citizenship by Investment, with the following covered by the Turkish public healthcare system:
- Primary healthcare services
- Preventative health services
- Maternity and pregnancy services (including IVF treatment)
- Prescription drugs (partial coverage)
- Emergency health services
- Optical and dental examinations and treatments
- Diagnostics and tests
- Rehabilitation services
What to expect from the private healthcare system
While public healthcare is popular for Turkish citizens, most Turkey citizenship by investment applicants opt for private healthcare in Turkey. Private health facilities in Turkey are generally better equipped and offer shorter waiting times.
The cost of private healthcare in Turkey is significantly cheaper than the US and other European countries, with the added benefit of lower cost private health insurance. For example, a consultation at a private clinic in Turkey could set you back between $32-$54, while the same in the US would cost between $100-$200.
In general, private health insurance in Turkey will cover all costs covered in hospital, with additional coverage based on your plan.
How to Access Healthcare Once You’re a Turkish Citizen
Once you become a Turkish citizen you can register for General Health Insurance at any social security institution center in Turkey. There are about 600 centers available, making the application very accessible.
Once you register you will need to pay ₺780 (€18) per month. You can also include your spouse and any dependents that are joining your application for Turkish citizenship.
For those working in Turkey, the cost of obtaining General Health Insurance is automatically deducted from their salary.
Working with a Turkey citizenship lawyer can help you get your citizenship application going, with a better understanding of all the factors to consider, including which healthcare options are available to you.
Finding Doctors in Turkey
Through the Universal Healthcare system in Turkey, you will be provided with a Family Health Center. You can obtain primary care here as well as get referrals if you need specialist care. If you have an emergency, you can call 112 for emergency medical assistance.
If you have private health insurance, you can access a number of private health facilities in Turkey. Whether you need general care or have an emergency, calling your private health insurance provider to find out the best option for your needs can help. But private facilities are based throughout the country.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Citizenship by Investment Healthcare
What are the healthcare benefits of Turkey Citizenship by Investment?
Obtaining Turkish citizenship through the Citizenship by Investment program grants access to Turkey’s public and private healthcare system. As a citizen, you can enroll in the General Health Insurance (GSS) under SGK. You may also opt for the affordable private health insurance options.
Can foreigners who obtain Turkish citizenship access public healthcare?
Yes, all citizens of Turkey can access public healthcare. If you are employed the cost is taken straight from your salary, alternatively you can pay the cost personally. This includes your spouse and dependents.
Is private healthcare in Turkey available to foreign investors?
Yes, foreign investors in Turkey can use private healthcare by obtaining private health insurance, which provides access to private hospitals and clinics, shorter wait times, and a broader range of treatments.
How does the Turkish healthcare system compare to other countries for investors?
For investors, Turkey’s healthcare system is appealing due to its affordability and universal coverage, offering a cost-effective alternative to countries like the US, where healthcare expenses are significantly higher.
Do Turkey Citizenship by Investment applicants need health insurance?
Yes, applicants for Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program must provide proof to the Turkish government of valid health insurance covering medical expenses in Turkey as part of the application process.
What is the cost of healthcare for new Turkish citizens?
The cost of healthcare for new Turkish citizens will depend on whether they take out public or private health insurance. Public health insurance costs about €18 per month, while private health insurance ranges between €70-€500 per year.
Can family members of Turkish CBI applicants use public healthcare?
Yes, family members of Turkish Citizenship by Investment applicants who acquire Turkish citizenship can access the country’s public healthcare system.
