- The best travel insurance plans for Turkey
- Is it currently safe to travel to Turkey?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Turkey?
- Why You Should Get Travel Insurance for Turkey
- What should travel insurance for Turkey cover?
- 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
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Turkey: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Turkey covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel incidents.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Canadians but is strongly recommended by the Canadian government.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is expensive; a hospital stay can easily exceed $700 CAD per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Turkey typically costs between $40 and $80 CAD.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes medical evacuation, especially for travel outside of major urban centres.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Turkey.
The best travel insurance plans for Turkey
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | CA$1.5M | Our preferred option for travel to Turkey. - high medical limit - repatriation included - adaptable coverage for various risks |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | CA$1.5M | Great for short stays in Turkey with efficient support. - 24/7 assistance - cancellation coverage - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | CA$780K | A practical contract for tourism with core protections. - solid medical cover - worldwide emergency response - competitive price |
| Travel Pass Monde | CA$1.2M | A balanced plan suitable for Turkey. - medical evacuation included - hospital costs covered - broad area of cover |
| Globe Partner | CA$465K | A dependable choice for international trips. - medical expenses abroad - repatriation - personal liability |
| Globe Traveller | CA$780K | An affordable solution for short, low-risk stays in Turkey. - essential medical protection - prompt reimbursement - capped benefits |
- high medical limit
- repatriation included
- adaptable coverage for various risks
- 24/7 assistance
- cancellation coverage
- no deductible
- solid medical cover
- worldwide emergency response
- competitive price
- medical evacuation included
- hospital costs covered
- broad area of cover
- medical expenses abroad
- repatriation
- personal liability
- essential medical protection
- prompt reimbursement
- capped benefits
Is it currently safe to travel to Turkey?
As of June 2025, Global Affairs Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Turkey due to security and political instability, particularly following recent protests in major cities.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: large-scale demonstrations continue in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir, sometimes resulting in violent clashes or arbitrary detention. Borders near Iraq and Syria, as well as the provinces of Batman and Şırnak, remain unsafe for travel.
- Health risks: access to medical care may be limited, especially outside major urban centres. Rabies treatment is not always available and hepatitis A vaccination is recommended, with tick-borne diseases present in rural zones.
- Legal environment: taking photographs near military sites or government buildings is prohibited and could result in arrest. Some common medications in Canada, like ADHD treatments, may require a prescription to enter Turkey.
- Cultural considerations: during Ramadan, public eating and drinking during daylight is considered disrespectful. Modest attire is expected when visiting mosques, and behaviour that is seen as public criticism of the Turkish government is punishable by law.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Turkey.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Turkey?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian citizens entering Turkey for stays of up to 90 days without a visa.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended by the Canadian government, as the cost of medical care and emergency evacuation in Turkey can be significant and access to treatment may be limited outside major cities.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Turkey. This high rate is due to potentially expensive private health services and increased risks from political unrest and health incidents.
Why You Should Get Travel Insurance for Turkey
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Turkey.
In Turkey, foreign visitors are typically directed to private clinics and hospitals, such as Acibadem Hospital in Istanbul, where costs can be significant. Public hospitals often have limited English-speaking staff and longer waiting times, sometimes making private care the only realistic option for urgent or specialized treatment.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transportation, and emergency repatriation to Canada if needed.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Turkey.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Acibadem Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | TRY 25,000 (CA$1,050) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | TRY 18,000 (CA$760) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | TRY 300,000 (CA$12,600) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | TRY 70,000 (CA$2,950) | 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.
What should travel insurance for Turkey cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Coverage for doctor visits, emergency care, medication, and hospitalization. We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of CA$1,000,000. |
| 🩺 Hospitalization | Covers hospital stays and necessary medical treatments. Choose a limit of at least CA$1,000,000 for international stays in Turkey. |
| ✈️ Emergency evacuation & repatriation | Pays for return to Canada in case of serious health problems or accidents. Opt for coverage of CA$250,000 or more. |
| 🚑 Ambulance and transport | Includes ground and air ambulance within Turkey and to the airport. A recommended limit is CA$100,000. |
| 💼 Lost/luggage theft | Compensation in case checked bags or personal belongings are lost or stolen. Minimum reimbursement of CA$2,000–CA$3,000 advised. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses costs if a trip is canceled or interrupted due to illness, accident, or emergencies. At least CA$3,000 is recommended. |
| 👨⚖️ Civil liability | Covers damages or injury you may unintentionally cause to a third party. We advise a minimum of CA$1,000,000 for this coverage. |
| ⚕️ 24/7 assistance | Access to support and advice any time in your language for emergencies. Always ensure your insurer includes a dedicated English helpline. |
We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of CA$1,000,000.
Choose a limit of at least CA$1,000,000 for international stays in Turkey.
Opt for coverage of CA$250,000 or more.
A recommended limit is CA$100,000.
Minimum reimbursement of CA$2,000–CA$3,000 advised.
At least CA$3,000 is recommended.
We advise a minimum of CA$1,000,000 for this coverage.
Always ensure your insurer includes a dedicated English helpline.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often provides basic or limited coverage, with low reimbursement ceilings and significant exclusions. It is safer to select a reputable insurer with comprehensive benefits. Compare leading options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant proof of insurance.
The cost of travel insurance for Turkey
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$45–CA$65 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$80–CA$110 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$120–CA$150 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$250–CA$350 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
Your travel insurance premium is influenced by several factors: your age, trip duration, destination, desired coverage amount, and optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Keeping these in mind is essential for Canadian travellers to find the right policy, ensuring adequate protection for your trip to Turkey without any unexpected costs.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Premiums are based on how long you stay in Turkey, so the longer the trip, the higher the price. | Choose insurance that exactly matches your trip dates to avoid paying for unused days. |
| 🧳 Type of coverage | Certain extra benefits raise the price, especially adventure sports and cancellation. | Select basic medical coverage if you don’t plan risky activities or expensive trips. |
| 👥 Number of travellers | Family or group plans may offer savings compared to buying single policies for each person. | Look for family or group packages that offer a total per-party premium rather than per-person rates. |
| 🎂 Traveller’s age | Price usually increases after age 60, sometimes sharply for senior travelers visiting Turkey. | Compare offers, noting that Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🌎 Pre-existing conditions | Insurers may charge much more or exclude coverage for declared health conditions, important to consider for all travelers. | Only declare stable, controlled conditions and compare policies that include coverage without major surcharges. |
| 💳 Payment method | Some credit cards in Canada already provide limited travel insurance benefits if you use them to pay for your trip. | Check your card’s protection, and purchase only additional required coverage. |
| 🎒 Deductible choice | Selecting a higher deductible lowers your premium, but increases out-of-pocket expenses if you file a claim. | Opt for a higher deductible if you are comfortable covering minor expenses yourself. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Turkey?
It is legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage, such as public health insurance, private health insurance, or your Canadian credit card insurance, can protect you on a trip to 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 (Canada Health, RAMQ, OHIP) | Never | No coverage for medical care or emergencies outside Canada. | Travel insurance reimburses up to CA$1,000,000+ for medical care, including hospitalizations and evacuation. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Blue Cross, Sun Life) | Limited coverage | May reimburse minor amounts after your return. Excludes emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation. | Travel insurance can offer CA$1,000,000+ coverage, unlimited emergency evacuation, and full assistance abroad. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, CIBC) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical up to CA$25,000. No trip cancellation or baggage, many exclusions for age or activity. | Travel insurance covers medical up to CA$1,000,000, trip cancellation up to CA$5,000 and more. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, World Elite Mastercard, Amex Gold) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical up to CA$250,000, some trip delay. May exclude pre-existing conditions or travel to risky regions. | Travel insurance can offer CA$1,000,000+ for hospital fees, full repatriation, baggage, and 24/7 local support. |
Example
While paragliding in Ölüdeniz, Liam had an accident, resulting in a CA$45,000 bill for air evacuation and surgery. His premium TD Aeroplan card's insurance excluded 'adventure sports,' and his provincial plan covered only CA$400. Without specialized travel insurance, he was personally liable for the remaining CA$44,600.
Expert advice
Many credit cards and provincial health plans exclude key situations like trip interruption for a relative’s illness. Carefully read your policy’s fine print to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance plan tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Turkey of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You must have a passport valid for at least 60 days beyond the length of your intended stay. Be sure to obtain an entry stamp in your passport upon arrival in Turkey.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Turkey?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review multiple offers. Second, check coverage specifics and all exclusions, especially for medical care and activities relevant in Turkey. Third, complete your purchase online. Finally, you will receive your travel insurance certificate, which can be saved digitally or printed.
What should I pay attention to when reviewing a travel insurance policy for Turkey?
Check for comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, as hospital facilities can be limited in some regions. Look for protection against trip interruptions, lost baggage, and natural disasters. Be aware of policy exclusions like high-risk activities or pre-existing conditions that may impact your coverage.
How much does travel insurance cost for a trip to Turkey?
For Canadian travelers, basic travel insurance to Turkey generally ranges from CA$40 to CA$180 per person for a two-week trip. Costs depend on your age, trip length, chosen coverage limits, and any optional add-ons. Seniors and those with pre-existing medical conditions may pay higher premiums.
Is travel insurance still worthwhile if I have coverage through my credit card?
Credit card insurance may offer some emergency medical or trip coverage, but the limits are often low and exclusions are common. For Turkey, it is best to read the fine print to understand what is included. For full protection, consider purchasing a standalone policy that covers higher medical costs and emergencies abroad.
Can I buy travel insurance for Turkey if I have an existing medical condition?
Yes, many Canadian insurers offer policies that include coverage for pre-existing conditions, but you must meet certain stability requirements. Always declare your condition accurately when applying and review the policy terms. Some insurers may offer specific waivers or higher premiums for medical conditions.
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Turkey of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You must have a passport valid for at least 60 days beyond the length of your intended stay. Be sure to obtain an entry stamp in your passport upon arrival in Turkey.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Turkey?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review multiple offers. Second, check coverage specifics and all exclusions, especially for medical care and activities relevant in Turkey. Third, complete your purchase online. Finally, you will receive your travel insurance certificate, which can be saved digitally or printed.
What should I pay attention to when reviewing a travel insurance policy for Turkey?
Check for comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, as hospital facilities can be limited in some regions. Look for protection against trip interruptions, lost baggage, and natural disasters. Be aware of policy exclusions like high-risk activities or pre-existing conditions that may impact your coverage.
How much does travel insurance cost for a trip to Turkey?
For Canadian travelers, basic travel insurance to Turkey generally ranges from CA$40 to CA$180 per person for a two-week trip. Costs depend on your age, trip length, chosen coverage limits, and any optional add-ons. Seniors and those with pre-existing medical conditions may pay higher premiums.
Is travel insurance still worthwhile if I have coverage through my credit card?
Credit card insurance may offer some emergency medical or trip coverage, but the limits are often low and exclusions are common. For Turkey, it is best to read the fine print to understand what is included. For full protection, consider purchasing a standalone policy that covers higher medical costs and emergencies abroad.
Can I buy travel insurance for Turkey if I have an existing medical condition?
Yes, many Canadian insurers offer policies that include coverage for pre-existing conditions, but you must meet certain stability requirements. Always declare your condition accurately when applying and review the policy terms. Some insurers may offer specific waivers or higher premiums for medical conditions.
On the same topic
