What are the best travel insurances for Turkey in 2025?
- The best travel insurance for Turkey
- Is it currently safe to travel to Turkey?
- Travel Insurance Requirements for a Visa to Turkey
- Why take out travel insurance for Turkey?
- Travel Insurance Coverage for Turkey
- The cost of travel insurance for Turkey
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Turkey
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Turkey?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Turkey: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Turkey covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel disruptions.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not required for US citizens, but it is vital for covering potential medical emergencies.
3. Healthcare cost: A private hospital stay in Turkey can cost foreign visitors $500 or more per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Turkey typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Your standard US health insurance, including Medicare, likely offers no coverage in Turkey.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Turkey.
The best travel insurance for Turkey
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Recommended for travel to Turkey. - high reimbursement cap - medical evacuation included - clear contract terms |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Suitable for stays of any length. - 24/7 emergency helpline - strong medical cover - no deductible for claims |
| Tourist Card | $0.5M | Practical for tourism or business trips in Turkey. - reliable medical coverage - fits most short stays - emergency assistance |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.8M | Good balance for city and regional travel. - repatriation and hospital care - wide coverage area |
| Globe Partner | $0.3M | Essential cover for extended or multi-stop trips. - basic health protection - civil liability included - streamlined claims process |
| Globe Traveller | $0.5M | Well adapted to short, lower-risk travels. - covers key medical expenses - quick claim processing - capped ceiling |
- high reimbursement cap
- medical evacuation included
- clear contract terms
- 24/7 emergency helpline
- strong medical cover
- no deductible for claims
- reliable medical coverage
- fits most short stays
- emergency assistance
- repatriation and hospital care
- wide coverage area
- basic health protection
- civil liability included
- streamlined claims process
- covers key medical expenses
- quick claim processing
- capped ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Turkey?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Turkey due to ongoing terrorism threats and the risk of arbitrary detention. Travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and areas within six miles of the Syrian border is strongly discouraged.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: Terrorist attacks remain a risk, especially in tourist areas, public venues, and near government buildings. Political demonstrations may occur and can lead to sudden police action and road closures.
- Health risks: Medical facilities in major cities are adequate but may be insufficient elsewhere. Emergency medical evacuation can be necessary for severe cases, and routine care in rural regions may not meet US standards.
- Legal constraints: Authorities strictly enforce bans on public criticism of the government, including online comments. Taking photographs near military sites or participating in unauthorized gatherings can result in arrest or deportation.
- Environmental risks: Earthquakes and aftershocks are common in much of Turkey, such as in Izmir or eastern Anatolia. Road accidents are frequent, especially when driving at night outside major urban centers.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Turkey.
Travel Insurance Requirements for a Visa to Turkey
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for travelers from the United States to obtain a visa or enter Turkey for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
However, having travel insurance is strongly recommended due to the variability in the quality of medical care, particularly outside major Turkish cities, and because US health insurance programs do not provide coverage in Turkey. Comprehensive travel insurance will help cover medical expenses and emergency evacuation if needed.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Turkey, as the country presents significant health and security risks that could lead to costly emergencies for travelers without adequate coverage.
Why take out travel insurance for Turkey?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Turkey.
In Turkey, public hospitals, especially outside major cities like Istanbul or Ankara, can be overcrowded and provide below-average care. As a foreigner, you will often need to use private clinics such as AcΔ±badem Hospital in Istanbul or Amerikan Hastanesi, where medical costs are significantly higher and payment is required upfront.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation, and repatriation costs to the US in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Turkey.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at AcΔ±badem Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 24,000 TRY (about $750) | Up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 17,000 TRY (about $530) | Up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 210,000 TRY (about $6,600) | Up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 74,000 TRY (about $2,300) | Up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel Insurance Coverage for Turkey
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| π₯ Medical expenses | Covers emergency treatment, consultation, and medication in clinics or hospitals in Turkey. We recommend a limit of at least 100,000 USD for medical costs. |
| π Medical evacuation & repatriation | Enables safe return or transfer to the US or a relevant facility in case of serious illness or accident. Opt for at least 200,000 USD coverage. |
| 𧳠Baggage and personal belongings | Reimburses in case of lost, stolen, or damaged luggage. A minimum of 2,000 USD per traveler is advised. |
| βοΈ Trip cancellation or interruption | Refunds prepaid travel expenses if you need to cancel or shorten your trip unexpectedly. Look for at least 5,000 USD reimbursement limit. |
| πΉοΈ Assistance and 24/7 support | Provides multilingual helpline for emergencies, medical referrals, and legal assistance. This is particularly useful in Turkeyβs major cities. |
| π¨ Hotel and extra accommodation | Covers additional costs if you are forced to extend your stay for medical or safety reasons. Recommended minimum: 1,000 USD. |
| βοΈ Civil liability | Protects you against damages you may cause to third parties during your trip. A limit of 50,000 USD is advised. |
| π Accidental injury or death | Pays a lump sum in case of severe injury or accidental death during the trip. Choose coverage of at least 10,000 USD. |
We recommend a limit of at least 100,000 USD for medical costs.
Opt for at least 200,000 USD coverage.
A minimum of 2,000 USD per traveler is advised.
Look for at least 5,000 USD reimbursement limit.
This is particularly useful in Turkeyβs major cities.
Recommended minimum: 1,000 USD.
A limit of 50,000 USD is advised.
Choose coverage of at least 10,000 USD.
Travel insurance from local providers or credit cards often comes with limited coverage, low reimbursement amounts, and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online to receive immediate certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Turkey
| Trip duration | Travelerβs age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $24 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $36 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $52 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $95 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your policy is shaped by several key factors: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the amount of coverage, and any selected add-ons like trip cancellation. It's important to keep these elements in mind to choose a plan that fits both your needs and your budget.
π‘ It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
π Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Turkey
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Turkey while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| π§βπΌ Travelerβs age | Insurers often raise prices for older travelers. Age brackets directly affect your premium cost. | Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which is beneficial for seniors looking to save money. |
| ποΈ Trip duration | The cost increases with every additional travel day on your policy. | Select coverage that matches your actual travel dates to avoid paying for days you are not in Turkey. |
| π₯ Level of coverage | Higher coverage limits can increase premium, but are crucial in case of medical emergencies. | Choose a plan with a solid medical cap, but skip optional upgrades you are unlikely to use. |
| π Geographical scope | Some policies cover multiple regions or worldwide, often at a higher cost. | Pick a plan limited to Turkey or Europe only, instead of global, to lower your premium. |
| π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Number of travelers | Group and family policies may include discounts compared to buying coverage separately. | If traveling as a family or couple, use group quotes to pay less per person. |
| π₯Ύ Activities planned | Policies including adventure or risky activities are more expensive. | Exclude coverage for high-risk sports or excursions if you do not plan those activities in Turkey. |
| π³ Deductible/excess | A higher deductible brings your premium down, but you pay more if you file a claim. | Consider a higher deductible you are comfortable paying to reduce your annual premium. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Turkey?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current insurance, such as credit card coverage or public health insurance, can protect you while traveling in Turkey. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Turkey? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No overseas coverage, except for rare cases inside the United States | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for medical care plus repatriation from Turkey |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Blue Cross, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Possible urgent care, limited network, no evacuation, often excludes trip interruption | Travel insurance provides $100,000+, hospital fees, medical evacuation, and 24/7 assistance |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical up to $10,000, no baggage, no trip cancellation | Travel insurance covers $100,000+, baggage, cancellations, and supports hospital admission |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $100,000, limited baggage or trip delay cover | Travel insurance includes $5,000+ trip cancellation, higher personal liability, and on-ground help |
Example
While paragliding in ΓlΓΌdeniz, Sarah had a bad landing, resulting in a complex leg fracture. The emergency surgery and hospital stay cost $30,000. Her Chase Sapphire card's travel protection was secondary and limited, and her US health plan considered the foreign hospital out-of-network, leaving her with a $25,000 bill.
Expert advice
Always review the terms, exclusions, and limits of your current insurance. Critical events, like trip interruption due to a relativeβs illness or death, may be excluded. Read your policy carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?
U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa for visits to Turkey of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, as long as your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date. Official passport holders, such as diplomats, still require a visa.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Turkey?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe comparison tool to find coverage that fits your needs for Turkey. Carefully check the policy details and exclusions, especially regarding medical evacuation, personal liability, and political risks. Purchase your plan online and receive your official certificate by email.
Does travel insurance for Turkey cover medical evacuation?
Most comprehensive travel insurance policies for Turkey offer coverage for emergency medical evacuation if required. This is important since high-quality healthcare is often available only in major cities and evacuation to another country may cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Are political unrest and terrorism covered by travel insurance in Turkey?
While travel insurance rarely covers losses linked to war or terrorism, some policies do assist if civil unrest disrupts your travel plans. Always review exclusions carefully, as incidents connected to government actions or politically motivated events are often not covered.
Is theft a common risk for travelers in Turkey and is it covered?
Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching does occur, particularly in tourist districts and public transport. Many travel insurance policies offer coverage for theft or loss of personal belongings, but pay attention to maximum payout and documentation requirements.
Can I get coverage for adventure activities in Turkey?
Standard travel insurance may not include risky activities such as paragliding, scuba diving, or mountain hiking, which are popular in Turkey. Consider adding optional coverage for adventure sports to ensure you are protected if you plan to participate in these pursuits.
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?
U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa for visits to Turkey of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, as long as your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date. Official passport holders, such as diplomats, still require a visa.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Turkey?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe comparison tool to find coverage that fits your needs for Turkey. Carefully check the policy details and exclusions, especially regarding medical evacuation, personal liability, and political risks. Purchase your plan online and receive your official certificate by email.
Does travel insurance for Turkey cover medical evacuation?
Most comprehensive travel insurance policies for Turkey offer coverage for emergency medical evacuation if required. This is important since high-quality healthcare is often available only in major cities and evacuation to another country may cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Are political unrest and terrorism covered by travel insurance in Turkey?
While travel insurance rarely covers losses linked to war or terrorism, some policies do assist if civil unrest disrupts your travel plans. Always review exclusions carefully, as incidents connected to government actions or politically motivated events are often not covered.
Is theft a common risk for travelers in Turkey and is it covered?
Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching does occur, particularly in tourist districts and public transport. Many travel insurance policies offer coverage for theft or loss of personal belongings, but pay attention to maximum payout and documentation requirements.
Can I get coverage for adventure activities in Turkey?
Standard travel insurance may not include risky activities such as paragliding, scuba diving, or mountain hiking, which are popular in Turkey. Consider adding optional coverage for adventure sports to ensure you are protected if you plan to participate in these pursuits.
