Turkey's Mandatory Health Insurance (GSS): Complete Guide
Mandatory health insurance is an important part of social protection in Turkey. Whether you are a citizen, long‑term resident, foreigner with a residence permit, or planning to relocate, understanding how the system works can help you avoid fines and secure access to healthcare.
In Turkey, the General Health Insurance (GSS) system is administered by the Social Security Institution (SGK) and provides coverage for medical services in public facilities and, in some cases, part of private care.
In this article, we explain:
- Who must be insured under GSS
- Who may be exempt or covered differently
- How contributions are calculated
- Practical tips for residents and citizens
What Is GSS?
The General Health Insurance (Genel Sağlık Sigortası – GSS) is regulated under the Social Insurance and General Health Insurance Law (Law No. 5510) and requires eligible individuals to be insured and pay contributions.
GSS provides access to public healthcare services for medical consultations, hospitalization, surgeries, and some prescription medicines. It is different from private health insurance, which can offer broader access and additional benefits.
Who Must Pay GSS Contributions?
🇹🇷 Turkish Citizens
All Turkish citizens are generally required to be part of the GSS system unless they are already covered by another social insurance scheme (for example, through employment with SGK coverage).
🛂 Residents and Foreigners
Foreign nationals holding a residence permit in Turkey can be required to join the GSS system if they:
- Do not have other valid insurance
- Are registered as residing in Turkey
In practice, many foreigners choose private health insurance because GSS enrollment and eligibility rules can vary depending on permit type and duration of stay.
GSS Contribution Rates
Contribution rates are based on the insured person’s income level and are updated periodically.
📌 Current Rule: The contribution rate for voluntary GSS is 6% of the declared income base (subject to minimum and maximum income thresholds set annually by SGK).
This means that individuals pay a percentage of their income — not a fixed flat fee — for insurance under the GSS. (Source: SGK legislation)
Example: If your declared income base equals the minimum threshold, your monthly contribution will be calculated on that base using the 6% rate. Actual amounts change annually with updates to minimum income thresholds.
Who Is Exempt or Covered Differently?
👨👩👧 Family Members and Dependents
- Dependents (spouses, minor children) may be covered under the primary insured person’s SGK account if conditions are met.
- Students under 25 can sometimes remain covered under parents’ SGK insurance with supporting documents.
🧑🦽 People in Social Support Programs
People in certain government support programs (low‑income families, disabled citizens, etc.) can have their contributions partially or fully covered by the state, based on social assessments.
🧑🎓 Foreign Students
Foreign students with residence permits may be required to have health insurance. Many choose private health insurance because it is accepted for residence permit procedures and offers broader coverage.
Living Abroad — Do You Still Pay GSS?
Turkish citizens living abroad may be exempt from paying GSS contributions if they:
- Are officially registered with SGK as residing outside Turkey
- Have provided accurate residence information and documentation
Warning: If SGK records show you as residing in Turkey without updated evidence of living abroad, you may still be considered liable for contributions. Proper notification and documentation are essential.
Can GSS Debts Be Cancelled Retroactively?
Yes — if you can provide documentary proof that you were living outside Turkey during the contested period and your official residence was abroad. In such cases, SGK may consider a request to revise or cancel contributions owed.
Practical Tips
- ✔ Always update your official address registration with local authorities and SGK within required deadlines.
- ✔ Keep records of visas, residence permits, rental contracts, and utility bills if living abroad.
- ✔ Visit the official SGK portal or an SGK office for personal status verification.
- ✔ Consider private health insurance if you are a foreign resident without a long‑term employer‑based SGK plan.
Official SGK website: https://www.sgk.gov.tr
Key Takeaways
- GSS is the core public health insurance system in Turkey managed by SGK.
- Citizens and some residents must be insured and contribute based on income.
- Many foreigners choose private health insurance for residence permit compliance and broader medical coverage.
- Updating your official status and residence information is critical to avoid unnecessary fees.
Mandatory health insurance is a vital part of living and working in Turkey. Knowing how it applies to you ensures access to healthcare and compliance with legal requirements.
Important: This guide provides general information. Regulations and contribution thresholds are subject to change. Always consult the official SGK website or a qualified legal/tax advisor for your specific situation.
