International students need to have health insurance during their stay in Turkey according to the regulations of the Republic of Turkey. It is a government requirement. International students may obtain insurance from the Republic of Turkey Social Security Institution or private health insurance companies.
Students may choose one of the following insurance types:
a. Students whose countries have reciprocal public insurance agreements with the Republic of Turkey may register with the Republic of Turkey Social Security Institution (SGK) and receive full health insurance during their studies in Turkey.
b. Students whose countries do not have health insurance agreements with the Republic of Turkey may register with the Republic of Turkey Social Security Institution (SGK) once they receive their Residence Permit Cards.
c. Students may register with private health insurance companies and purchase private insurance policies for the duration of their studies in Turkey.