How SGK Works and Who’s Covered
Last updated: 9 October 2025
TL;DR
This guide summarizes the key points about how sgk works and who’s covered. Use the table of contents to jump to a section.
Table of Contents
What Is SGK?
The Social Security Institution (Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu, SGK) is Turkey’s primary social insurance system. It operates under the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Services and provides health insurance, retirement pensions, disability support and unemployment benefits【709035627920171†L116-L144】. SGK offers compulsory health coverage to citizens and legal residents, ensuring access to healthcare services at public and private facilities and subsidising medications【709035627920171†L116-L132】.
Eligibility and Coverage
To benefit from SGK, individuals and employers contribute to the social security fund. Contribution rates depend on income and employment type【709035627920171†L148-L156】. International students become eligible after one year of legal residence【942142451751282†L108-L119】. Retirees can enrol if they meet contribution requirements and may pair SGK with private insurance for more comprehensive coverage【606034835949543†L51-L77】.
SGK covers a wide range of services, including hospital stays, surgeries and emergency care. Prescription medications are subsidised, and preventive care like regular check‑ups is encouraged【989925432037382†L63-L69】. Disability benefits, retirement pensions and unemployment insurance are also administered by SGK【709035627920171†L132-L144】.
How to Enrol
Employees are automatically registered by their employers, who must submit wage and contribution reports to SGK【709035627920171†L152-L159】. Self‑employed individuals and expats should apply directly at local SGK offices. Required documents include passport or ID, residence permit and tax number. Students apply at their city’s SGK office with proof of study and residence【942142451751282†L120-L124】. Registration can take 2–3 weeks.
Tips for Using SGK
Always carry your SGK card or digital copy when visiting healthcare providers. Familiarise yourself with network hospitals to avoid unexpected costs. For treatments not fully covered, consider supplementary insurance. For long‑term stays, track contribution payments to ensure continuous coverage and eligibility for retirement benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who regulates health insurance in Turkey?
The Social Security Institution (SGK) oversees compulsory health insurance for residents【709035627920171†L116-L132】. Private insurers offer supplemental plans.
What is the waiting period for maternity coverage?
Many insurers require that maternity coverage be part of a broader health plan and may impose a waiting period; one provider notes a 5‑month wait before pregnancy for full cover【125686836929988†L114-L188】.
Do I need travel insurance for a Schengen visa?
Yes. You must provide travel health insurance with at least €30,000 in medical coverage for Schengen visa applications【856552496298626†L119-L160】.
Are earthquakes covered by property insurance?
Compulsory Earthquake Insurance (DASK) protects structural elements of your home against earthquake damage【389714370070008†L38-L68】. Movable property and loss of rent are excluded【389714370070008†L69-L80】.
Sources
- SGK overview and benefits【709035627920171†L116-L132】【709035627920171†L132-L144】
- Contribution and registration requirements【709035627920171†L148-L159】
- International student eligibility【942142451751282†L108-L119】【942142451751282†L120-L124】