Getting a residence permit is a very important step for foreign students who want to study in Turkey. This permit allows you to both stay in the country legally and enjoy social benefits.
However, many students are confused by the health insurance requirement when applying for a student residence permit. When I first arrived, I thought a lot about “Are public hospitals enough or should I buy private insurance?” In this article, I explain in detail what you need to know about the health insurance you need when getting a student residence permit in Turkey.
What is a Student Residence Permit in Turkey?
It is an official residence permit issued for foreign students who wish to study at a university or higher education institution in Turkey. This permit allows you to stay in Turkey legally, receive education and benefit from social services.
Documents Required for Residence Permit Application
According to the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Interior Directorate of Migration Management, the following documents are required for student residence permit application:
- Passport or passport substitute (photocopy and original)
- Student certificate (from the university you are enrolled in)
- Biometric photograph (4 pieces)
- Document showing the address where you will stay in Turkey (lease or dormitory certificate)
- Valid health insurance policy
To access the official source, please visit Migration Administration Application Documents.
Health Insurance Obligation for Student Residence Permit
It is mandatory to show this insurance when applying for a student residence permit. So, what are these types of insurance and which one should you choose?
General Health Insurance (GHI) and Private Health Insurance Difference
Under the Law on Social Insurance and General Health Insurance, foreign students in Turkey have the right to apply for GHI within three months of their first enrollment. If this application is not made, the student must take out private health insurance.
Who Is Covered by General Health Insurance?
In accordance with the Social Security and General Health Insurance Law No. 5510, foreign students coming to Turkey for education can benefit from General Health Insurance by applying within three months from the date of their first registration. In this way, they can benefit from health services in public hospitals and cover their health costs at lower costs.
If you miss this three-month period or do not apply, private health insurance becomes compulsory. Therefore, it is very important to keep track of your first registration date and submit your application on time!
Private Health Insurance: This policy is required for students who have not applied for GHI within three months or who are not covered by GHI. It is often more expensive, and coverage may vary from company to company.
Insurance Types and Application Processes
When buying a policy, you should examine both General Health Insurance (GHI) and private options.
What to Consider When Choosing Private Insurance?
Turkey’s insurance companies offer different policy coverages. Some only cover emergencies, while others also cover hospitalizations and outpatient visits. Companies usually offer policies for 6-12 months.
- Make sure that your policy is approved by the SSI.
- Be sure to check the details of the coverage (emergencies, examination, medicine, hospital services, etc.)
- When comparing prices, consider both coverage and contracted hospitals.
You can avoid victimization by examining these details.
Policy Coverage in Turkey
One of the most curious topics for students is insurance coverage. When I first enrolled in university, while trying to protect my budget, I was very confused by the policy coverages.
Private insurance is usually arranged annually and varies from company to company. Some only cover emergencies; others also cover outpatient examinations and medication costs. Therefore, read the details of your policy and be sure to check the list of contracted hospitals.
Insurance Tips for Students and Common Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes foreign students studying in Turkey make is forgetting to apply for General Health Insurance within three months of their first registration. If you lose this right, you will have to take out a private policy, which can be both more expensive and limited in terms of coverage.
Initial Enrollment Date and 3 Month Period Attention!
Make sure to keep track of your first registration date.
Don’t miss your GHI application.
Choose a comprehensive and SSI approved policy.
In my first year, I was quite confused about this issue. I didn’t know which document to submit and where to submit it, and I had to buy a private policy when I missed the three-month deadline. I recommend especially first-time students to follow this deadline and documents well.
Health Insurance and Scholarship Opportunities in Turkey: Is There a Relationship?
Many students wonder whether scholarship programs cover their health costs. Some scholarships, such as the Turkey Scholarships Program, can help students with both living expenses and support in this regard. For details, please see our article Turkey Scholarships Program: Application Process and Tips.
But remember: Not all scholarship programs guarantee this coverage. Be sure to review the scholarship requirements before applying.
Turn Your Dream of Education in Turkey into Reality!
Application for a residence permit is an important process for foreign students who want to study in Turkey. By preparing your necessary documents in full, you can step into a safe and trouble-free student life in our country.
Come on, take action now to take the first step!