From April 1, 2025, Turkey has introduced new health insurance rules for foreigners applying for or renewing a residence permit. The updated requirements raise the minimum coverage amounts, expand hospital access, and will likely increase the cost of insurance.

Why the New Rules Matter

Health insurance has always been part of the residence permit process in Turkey, but the old rules set much lower limits. The new regulation ensures foreigners have enough financial protection for serious medical needs, especially given the rising cost of healthcare in Turkey.

Updated Minimum Coverage

Under the 2025 changes, a valid private health insurance policy for residence permits must include:

1. At least ₺15,000 coverage for outpatient treatment
2. At least ₺150,000 coverage for inpatient treatment
3. Access to both private hospitals and certain approved public hospitals

These limits apply to all new and renewal residence permit applications submitted from April 1, 2025 onwards.

Impact on Insurance Costs

With higher coverage comes higher premiums. Many insurers expect costs for foreigner health policies to rise by up to 300% compared to previous years. For example, a plan that cost ₺3,000 a year before could now be ₺9,000 or more, depending on age and health condition. Older applicants or those with pre-existing conditions may see even bigger increases.

Who Needs to Follow the New Rules

The changes affect all foreigners who are required to have private health insurance as part of their permit process, including short-term, long-term, and family residence permits. Student permits may also be affected if private insurance is required.

Steps to Stay Compliant

If you plan to apply for or renew your residence permit after April 1, 2025, you should:

1. Find a policy that meets the new coverage levels
2. Confirm that the hospital network includes private and approved public hospitals
3. Get your policy in Turkish or have it officially translated for the application

Tips for Choosing the Right Policy

Compare different insurers, watch out for exclusions or hidden limits, and ask about direct billing options so you do not need to pay medical costs upfront.

Key Points

1. New minimum coverage: ₺15,000 outpatient, ₺150,000 inpatient
2. Premiums may increase sharply
3. Applies to all residence permit applicants from April 1, 2025
4. Must include both private and certain public hospital access

By planning ahead and choosing the right insurance, you can meet the new rules and avoid problems with your residence permit application.