How To Apply for a Medical Visa to Turkey

Turkey has become one of the most trusted destinations for international patients seeking advanced medical care.

Each year, 1.5+ million people travel to the country for treatment, drawn by its blend of world-class expertise, modern hospitals, and patient-focused services.

Yet for international patients, the first step toward treatment is not the hospital but the medical visa a permit that allows you to travel legally for healthcare.

Understanding how to apply, what documents are required, and how long the process takes can remove much of the uncertainty at the start of your medical journey.

Applying for a medical visa for Turkey is a straightforward process when you have the right guidance. With the support of My 1Health, patients can confidently prepare the required documents, secure hospital invitation letters, and receive clear step-by-step assistance.

As a trusted medical facilitator, we ensure that you and your family know exactly what to expect, making the journey to treatment smooth and stress-free.

Do You Need a Medical Visa for Turkey?

Yes, in most cases you will need a medical visa to travel to Turkey for treatment. The type of entry permit required depends on your nationality and the length of your stay:

• Visa-free countries

Citizens of countries with visa-exemption agreements with Turkey can enter without a visa for short stays (usually up to 30, 60, or 90 days).

However, this option is only suitable for short consultations or minor procedures. Longer treatment requires a medical visa.

Visa-Free Entry to Turkey for Short Medical Visits

• e-Visa

Citizens of over 100 countries are eligible to apply online for a Turkish e-Visa, which can be used for medical purposes. Processing is usually immediate, and it allows stays of 30 to 90 days depending on your nationality.

• Medical visa from an embassy/consulate

If your treatment is complex, long-term, or requires hospitalisation (such as transplants, oncology treatments, or major surgery), you must apply for a medical visa through a Turkish embassy or consulate. This visa gives you legal permission to stay for the full duration of your treatment and recovery.

• Accompanying family members

Close relatives, such as a parent, spouse, or child, can apply for the same category of visa to support you during your treatment.

Turkey Medical Visa Requirements and Documents

When applying for a medical visa to Turkey, you must prepare and submit specific documents. These may vary slightly by country, but the standard requirements include:

Valid Passport

• Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Turkey.
• Ensure it has at least two blank pages for the visa.

Completed Visa Application Form

• Available online or at the Turkish embassy/consulate.
• Must be filled out accurately and signed.

Passport-Sized Photographs

• Recent (taken within the last 6 months).
• Must meet biometric standards: plain background, full face visible.

Medical Invitation Letter

• Issued by the Turkish hospital or healthcare provider confirming your planned treatment.
• This document is essential to prove the purpose of your travel.
• My 1Health assists patients by securing and issuing hospital invitations from our partner hospitals.

Proof of Financial Means

Bank statements, payslips, or sponsorship letters to show you can cover treatment, travel, and living expenses during your stay.

Travel Itinerary

1. Flight bookings (return ticket if applicable).
2. Accommodation details (hotel booking or hospital stay confirmation).

Health Insurance or Guarantee of Payment

1. Some consulates may require proof of medical insurance covering treatment abroad.
2. For patients travelling under My 1Health, hospitals usually provide confirmation of treatment coverage.

Visa Fee Payment Receipt

• Payment confirmation for the medical visa application fee.

Additional Supporting Documents (if requested)

• Medical records, referral letters from your home doctor, or prior test results may be required depending on the embassy.

Tip for Patients: Having a clear and complete set of documents significantly reduces the risk of rejection or delays. Working with a medical facilitator like My 1Health ensures that you receive the correct hospital invitation and guidance on compiling your visa file.

How to Apply for a Medical Visa to Turkey

If your country is not on the visa-exemption list, or if your treatment requires you to stay beyond the visa-free period, you will need to apply for a Turkey Medical Visa. The process is straightforward if you prepare the required documents in advance.

Step 1: Check Visa Requirements for Your Country

• Visit the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa portal or the Turkey e-Visa website.
• Enter your nationality and passport type to see whether you need a medical visa.

Step 2: Obtain a Medical Invitation Letter

• A medical invitation letter from a recognised Turkish hospital is often required.
• My 1Health assists patients by coordinating directly with our partner hospitals in Turkey to secure this document.
• The letter confirms your appointment or treatment plan, which strengthens your visa application.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

You will typically need:

• A valid passport (at least six months validity from entry date).
• Recent passport-sized photographs.
• Completed visa application form (online or at the Turkish consulate).
• Medical invitation letter from the treating hospital.
• Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsorship).
• Travel itinerary (flight booking, accommodation, or hospital booking).
• Travel health insurance (where applicable).

Step 4: Submit Your Application

• Applications can be made online (for eligible countries via e-Visa) or at the nearest Turkish embassy/consulate.
• Ensure all documents are scanned or presented in the required format.
• Pay the visa processing fee (varies by nationality).

Step 5: Wait for Processing

• Standard processing time: 5 to 15 working days.
• Patients with urgent medical needs can often request expedited processing with supporting documentation.

Step 6: Travel and Treatment

• Once approved, you will receive a visa sticker or e-Visa approval notice.
• Carry all medical documents, hospital confirmations, and your visa for presentation at the Turkish border.

Costs of a Turkey Medical Visa and Related Expenses

When planning treatment in Turkey, it is important to budget not only for the procedure but also for the visa, travel, and support costs.

Medical Visa Fees

• Visa fee ranges: Typically, between USD 60 – 150, depending on nationality.
• Payment method: Most embassies and consulates accept online card payment or direct bank deposit at the time of application.
• Multiple entries: Some nationalities may be granted a single-entry visa while others can request multiple entry visas for follow-up treatments.

Additional Costs to Plan For

1. Travel Health Insurance
   • Some consulates require proof of health insurance valid in Turkey.
   • Coverage should include emergency treatment, hospitalisation, and repatriation.
   • Average cost: USD 30 – 100 per month depending on provider and coverage.
2. Hospital Invitation Letter Fees
   • Hospitals in Turkey typically provide these free of charge.
   • My 1Health coordinates directly with partner hospitals so patients avoid hidden costs.
3. Travel and Accommodation
   • Return flights vary significantly depending on departure country.
   • Hotels and serviced apartments near medical centres range from USD 40–120 per night.
   • Some partner hospitals provide in-patient accommodation for family members.
4. Document Authentication
   • In some cases, medical or financial documents may need to be notarised or translated into Turkish.
   • Average cost: USD 20 – 50 per document.

How My 1Health Makes the Process Easier

Navigating the medical visa process and coordinating treatment abroad can be complex, but this is where My 1Health adds value at every stage:

1. Pre-Visa Support
   • Helping patients choose the right hospital based on their condition.
   • Securing hospital invitation letters directly, avoiding delays.
2. Visa Application Guidance
   • Advising on required documents and embassy requirements specific to each country.
   • Providing facilitator support letters that strengthen applications.
3. Arrival and Treatment Coordination
   • Organising airport pickup and transfers.
   • Providing interpreter services for clear communication with doctors.
   • Coordinating treatment schedules, follow-ups, and recovery plans.
4. Post-Treatment Facilitation

• Assisting with discharge planning and medical documentation for your records.
• Coordinating follow-up care with your treating hospital, even after you return home.

Visa Rules for Patients Traveling to Türkiye for Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

How can a medical facilitator help me get treatment in Turkey?

My 1Health ensures patients are not left to navigate the system alone. From pre-visa arrangements to post-treatment recovery, every step is guided to minimise stress and maximise successful treatment outcomes.

Can I extend my medical visa if treatment continues longer?

Yes, Turkey allows patients to apply for a visa extension for treatment if their recovery or medical care takes longer than expected.

You will need a supporting letter from your hospital confirming the need for continued treatment. Applications are made through the local immigration office. My 1Health assists patients with this process to ensure there are no gaps in legal stay.

Can I switch from a tourist visa to a medical visa while in Turkey?

Generally, visa types cannot be changed once inside Turkey. If you entered on a tourist visa but require longer-term treatment, you may need to apply for a residence permit for medical reasons or reapply for a medical visa from your home country. It is always best to apply for the correct visa type before travelling.

What if my Turkey medical visa is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you should first check the reason given by the embassy. Missing documents, unclear hospital invitations, or insufficient financial proof are common issues.

With My 1Health, patients receive complete documentation support including facilitator and hospital letters to reduce the risk of rejection. We also guide reapplications to strengthen the chances of approval.