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Health Visa in Türkiye for Foreigners

15/12/2025

Health Visa and Medical Residence Permit in Türkiye for Foreigners: Application Process and Key Requirements

Türkiye holds a strong position in the field of medical tourism. As a result, many foreigners choose the country for medical treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, or long-term medical follow-up. However, to stay in Türkiye legally, foreign nationals must apply for a health visa or a medical residence permit in a timely and accurate manner. Otherwise, applicants may encounter administrative or legal complications.

In this article, we explain the health visa and medical residence permit process clearly, practically, and step by step.

What Is a Health Visa in Türkiye?

A health visa allows foreign nationals to enter Türkiye specifically for medical treatment. In most cases, applicants apply at a Turkish consulate using an official acceptance or invitation letter issued by a public or private medical institution operating in Türkiye.

Generally, consulates issue health visas for short-term treatments and determine the visa duration according to the planned medical schedule.

When Is a Health Visa Required?

Foreign nationals must apply for a health visa if:

  • they travel to Türkiye exclusively for medical treatment;

  • they will receive treatment at a hospital or medical center;

  • the treatment includes surgery, hospitalization, or regular medical follow-up;

  • the purpose of travel is not touristic or commercial.

Therefore, applicants should clearly state their purpose of travel and support it with official documentation.

What Is a Medical Residence Permit?

If the treatment period extends or rehabilitation becomes necessary, foreigners must obtain a medical residence permit. This permit, in turn, allows foreign nationals to remain in Türkiye legally and continuously throughout the treatment period.

Accordingly, the Directorate of Migration Management evaluates the duration of the residence permit directly based on the medical report.

Who Can Obtain a Medical Residence Permit?

The following individuals may obtain a medical residence permit:

  • foreigners receiving active medical treatment in Türkiye;

  • patients undergoing post-surgery rehabilitation;

  • individuals who require continuous medical supervision;

  • accompanying persons, when medically justified.

Consequently, the Directorate of Migration Management assesses each application individually, taking the applicant’s medical condition into account.

Required Documents for a Health Visa and Medical Residence Permit

Applicants typically submit the following documents:

  • a valid passport;

  • a medical report or invitation letter issued by a healthcare institution in Türkiye;

  • a treatment plan or appointment confirmation;

  • proof of sufficient financial means;

  • valid health insurance;

  • address information in Türkiye;

  • biometric photographs;

  • a fully completed application form.

In addition, authorities may request further documents depending on the applicant’s nationality and individual circumstances.

Importance of the Medical Institution and Medical Report

The medical report or hospital letter forms the core of the application. Specifically, the healthcare institution must clearly state:

  • the diagnosis;

  • the treatment method;

  • the estimated duration of treatment;

  • the necessity of remaining in Türkiye.

Based on this information, the Directorate of Migration Management reviews and evaluates the application.

Duration of the Medical Residence Permit

The Directorate of Migration Management issues medical residence permits in line with the treatment duration. Furthermore, the authority determines the permit period according to the timeframe specified in the medical report.

If the treatment continues, the foreign national submits updated medical documentation and applies for an extension.

Reasons for Rejection of a Health Visa or Medical Residence Permit

Authorities may reject applications for several reasons. For example, rejection may occur if:

  • valid medical documentation is not provided;

  • incomplete or misleading information is submitted;

  • the applicant fails to demonstrate sufficient financial means;

  • the stated purpose of application is deemed inappropriate;

  • previous immigration violations exist.

Therefore, applicants should manage the process carefully and systematically.

Why Legal Assistance Is Important

Health visa and medical residence permit applications involve technical and detailed procedures. Even minor mistakes, in practice, may result in rejection.

With professional legal assistance, applicants can:

  • prepare documents accurately;

  • manage communication with medical institutions and migration authorities effectively;

  • significantly reduce the risk of rejection;

  • avoid unnecessary delays.

Legal Support Provided by CR Partners

At CR Partners Law & Consultancy Office, we actively support foreign clients throughout the process. Specifically, we:

  • prepare health visa applications;

  • manage medical residence permit procedures;

  • follow up on residence permit extensions related to treatment;

  • handle objections against rejection decisions.

Important Notice

Health visa and medical residence permit requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s nationality, the selected medical institution, and the specific circumstances of each case.

Conclusion

In conclusion, foreign nationals must plan the health visa and medical residence permit process in Türkiye carefully. By preparing documents correctly and obtaining professional legal support, applicants significantly increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

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