Do you need travel insurance for Turkey?
Travel insurance for Turkey is a smart move for any Irish traveller. While it’s not a legal requirement to enter the country, a good policy can protect you from expensive medical bills, unexpected cancellations, lost luggage, and more. Also, as Turkey is outside the EU, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) won’t work over here.
Considering over half a million tourists receive emergency treatment in Turkey each year, being covered for medical expenses is a smart move.
With Turkey travel insurance, you’ll also be covered for:
- Emergency medical treatment and hospital care
- Trip cancellations or curtailment
- Lost, stolen or delayed baggage
- Travel delays and missed connections
- And more
The Department of Foreign Affairs also states that buying travel and medical insurance can save you a lot of money if something goes wrong on your trip to Turkey.
What does JustCover’s Turkey trip insurance cover?
You’re far more likely to enjoy your trip knowing you’re covered, should you run into any accidents. Whether it’s a medical flare-up, a cycling accident or losing your phone or wallet. Here’s what our Turkey travel insurance covers:
What's covered
Medical expenses and repatriation - Around 6,000 Irish people a year will be admitted to hospital with a heart attack. We cover a wide range of medical conditions, including high blood pressure, cancer and diabetes and can arrange to fly you home if medically necessary.
Cancellation - Cover for flight and accommodation costs if an unexpected event means you have to cancel your trip before you go.
Curtailment - Cover if you need to return home early following an emergency.
Travel delay - If your flight is delayed, we’ll give you compensation to help with the disruption.
Personal belongings - You’ll be covered if your baggage or its contents are lost or stolen.
Personal liability - Cover for your legal expenses and any liability due if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property while you’re away on holiday.
Legal protection cover - Provides cover for your legal expenses if you have to claim compensation or damages due to something that happened while you were away on holiday.
What's not covered
Claims below the value of the excess - Your policy excess is the minimum amount a claim must exceed before you’re eligible for a payout.
Trips outside the region of cover - Make sure your policy includes Turkey in your chosen region (usually Europe).
Known events or circumstances - Claims won’t be covered for issues you were already aware of when you booked or bought your insurance.
Medical conditions you don’t declare - You’ll need to let us know about any pre-existing conditions to ensure you're properly covered.
Choosing not to travel - Plans change, but cancellations are only covered when the reason meets the terms set out in your policy.
Not sure if you’re covered for something? Be sure to check our Policy Wording for more information.
How much is travel insurance for Turkey?
The cost depends on a few factors. Namely, the level of cover you choose, and any health conditions you have. Other factors that influence the cost include:
- Trip duration. Longer trips usually cost more to insure. For example, a two-week beach holiday in Antalya will likely cost more to cover than a quick city break in Istanbul.
- Age of travellers. Premiums generally rise with age, particularly for those over 60.
- Medical history. Travellers with pre-existing conditions may pay more, but declaring them is essential. That’s especially true if you’re visiting remote areas where private healthcare is the only option.
- Type of policy. Single-trip insurance is ideal for a one-off escape to Turkey, while annual cover might be better value if you also have another holiday planned later in the year.
- Planned activities. If you’re thinking of paragliding or scuba diving while in Turkey, make sure your policy covers adventure sports.
Choose the right level of cover
We offer different levels of cover to make your Travel Insurance as cost-effective as possible.
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Should you choose a single trip or annual travel insurance for Turkey?
Both policies offer separate benefits. What you choose depends on the length and type of trip you’re taking.
- If you're only visiting Turkey once and don’t expect to travel again soon, a single trip policy is typically more cost-effective.
- However, if you plan to take multiple trips throughout the year, whether to Turkey or elsewhere, an annual multi-trip policy could offer better value and convenience.
You’ve also got European travel insurance, which is useful if you’re planning to visit more than one country in Europe. But if you’re looking to fly further afield, like Australia or the USA, worldwide travel insurance is a better option.
How can I get cheaper travel insurance to Turkey?
Looking to cut the cost of your travel insurance without losing important cover? Here are some smart, practical tips for Irish travellers heading to Turkey:
Only pay for what you need: Tailor your policy to suit your trip. So, avoid things like winter sports or cruise cover if not applicable. And be sure to choose the right region (Turkey is often classed as Europe).
Consider a higher excess: Opting for a slightly higher voluntary excess can lower your premium. So make sure it’s an amount you’re comfortable paying if you claim.
Get cover early: The earlier you’re covered, the better. That’s why you should try to buy insurance as soon as you book your trip. Then you’ll be covered from the date you book.
Check what you’re already covered for: It’s essential to know the ins and outs of your policy. This will help you claim quicker (if you need to) and know what you are and aren’t covered for.
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey from Ireland?
No, Irish passport holders do not need a visa to enter Turkey for short stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. That’s for both tourists and business travellers. However, your passport must be valid for at least 150 days from the date of arrival in Turkey.
That said, entry requirements can change, so it’s always wise to check official government advice before you travel. If you're planning to stay longer, work, or study in Turkey, you’ll need to apply for the relevant visa or residence permit.
Will the EHIC cover me for my trip to Turkey?
No, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) doesn’t cover Turkey, as Turkey is not part of the EU or EEA. This means Irish travellers must arrange travel insurance with comprehensive medical cover, including:
- Emergency treatment
- Hospital stays
- Medical evacuation or repatriation
Without insurance, even minor medical issues could become expensive. An air ambulance alone from Turkey back home to Ireland costs £22,500 minimum.
What is the standard of healthcare in Turkey?
Healthcare in Turkey varies depending on whether you go private or public.
Public hospitals are generally less expensive but may have longer wait times, limited English-speaking staff, and lower comfort levels. Private hospitals, on the other hand, especially in tourist areas like Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir, offer higher standards of care, but treatment here can be very expensive.
Is Turkey considered part of Europe?
Geographically, Turkey spans both Europe and Asia, with Istanbul famously bridging the two continents. Politically, it’s not a member of the EU, but it does have strong ties with many European countries.
When it comes to travel insurance, Turkey is typically included under European cover, and that’s how we classify it too. So if you're booking a European policy with us, you'll be covered for your trip to Turkey.
Find the best travel insurance for Turkey
When choosing travel insurance for Turkey, it’s important to pick the right type of policy for your needs.
Annual multi-trip travel insurance
Great for frequent travellers to Turkey or beyond, covering multiple trips a year. Ideal if you’ll visit Turkey more than once or plan other holidays too.
Best for one-off visits to Turkey. Covers you for just that trip, with protection for medical costs, cancellations, and baggage.
Why choose JustCover for your Turkey holiday insurance?
At JustCover, we’ve got your back, wherever you’re heading. Whether you're exploring Istanbul’s historic sites or relaxing along the Turquoise Coast. We offer flexible, reliable cover that puts your needs first, so you can enjoy your holiday knowing you're protected.
- 98% of customers rate us as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Great’¹
- Up to unlimited cover for medical expenses and repatriation
- Up to €10,000 cancellation cover²
- 24/7 emergency medical helpline
- Cover for more than 1,300 medical conditions available. Including those that are terminal
We make it easy to get the right travel insurance for your trip to Turkey, with trusted cover and real support when you need it most.
When to buy Turkey holiday insurance
One study found that most people who buy travel insurance do so at the point of booking. This is likely because it’s best to buy it as soon as you’ve booked your trip.
That way, you’ll be covered straight away for cancellation and other pre-departure issues. Leaving it until just before your trip might mean missing out on vital protection if something unexpected happens in the meantime.
Our policies will cover you from the date you buy, right up until you return to Ireland. So, whether you’re booking months in advance or at the last minute, don’t leave your insurance until the airport queue.
Specialist travel insurance for Turkey
This is the default rich text valueGet cover that suits your specific travel needs, whether you're heading to Turkey’s coast, cities, or countryside. Explore our specialist options:
- Seniors travel insurance - Tailored cover for older travellers heading to Turkey, with no upper age limit and support for common medical conditions.
- Travel insurance with medical conditions - We cover over 1,300 conditions, with clear options and no hassle for your trip to Turkey.
- Family travel insurance - Planning a family break? Get flexible cover that protects the whole household under one policy.
- Cruise travel insurance - Cruising the Turkish coast or beyond? Get extra protection for missed ports, cabin confinement and more.
Does travel insurance for Turkey cover all activities?
Our three main policies will cover you for low-risk activities like snorkelling, guided hikes and paddleboarding. Great if you’re exploring coastal areas such as Antalya and Bodrum. But if you're planning something more adventurous like quad biking, white-water rafting, or paragliding, you may need to add adventure or extreme sports cover to your policy.
- Group and extreme sports. Activities such as canyoning, off-road safaris or paragliding may not be included as standard. If you're taking part in any extreme sports or activities, make sure your policy covers you. If it doesn’t, you can always add on extreme and adventure sports cover.
- Winter sports. Planning to hit the slopes in places like Uludağ or Palandöken? You’ll need a policy that includes winter sports cover to be protected for skiing, snowboarding and related equipment.
Be sure to declare these activities during your quote process. If you don’t, it could result in a denied claim. Always check your Policy Wording and make sure your policy matches your itinerary!
Turkey travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions
If you’re travelling to Turkey with a pre-existing medical condition, getting the right cover in place is essential. Medical treatment abroad can be expensive, and without the right insurance, you could be left facing hefty bills.
At JustCover, we offer travel insurance that can cover over 1,300 pre-existing conditions, including:
- Heart conditions
- Atrial fibrillation
- COPD
- Asthma
- Stroke
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Arthritis
- High cholesterol
- Disabilities
- Mental health conditions
It’s important to declare all existing medical conditions to ensure you’re fully protected. Otherwise, you may not be covered if you experience a medical flare-up in Turkey.
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Now all you need to do is to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs
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Purchase your cover and you’re ready to go – we’ll take care of the rest!
Expert travel insurance recommendations from our team
“On holiday in Turkey, things don’t always go to plan. Lose your passport? Need urgent medical care? The last thing you want is to be buried in paperwork – or worse, paying out of pocket for medical treatment.
That’s why having travel insurance for Turkey is essential. With clear, tailored cover for your trip, you can relax knowing if something goes wrong, we’ve got your back. Less stress, more exploring!”
Peter Clark - JustCover Director
What our customers say
"I found the whole process of purchasing travel insurance on your site very easy. The important benefits needed when travelling in Europe were made very clear in a step by step guide. Thanks very much!"
see full reviewTurkey travel insurance tips and recommendations
It’s always important to be prepared if you’re heading to a new country, even if you’ve travelled abroad many times before. Whether you're planning to explore Istanbul’s historic sites, relax on the beaches of Antalya, or take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, having the right travel insurance will give you peace of mind.
- Entry requirements. Irish passport holders can travel to Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. However, your passport must be valid for at least 150 days from the date of arrival.
- Local customs. Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, so modest dress is expected in certain areas, especially when visiting mosques - and remember, your shoes should be removed before entering.
- Currency and payments. The official currency is the Turkish lira (TRY), though euros are often accepted in tourist areas. Cash is useful in markets and smaller towns, but card payments are widely accepted in cities and resorts.
- Tipping. Tipping (or “baksheesh”) is customary in Turkey. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated.
- Food and water safety. Stick to bottled water where you can. Street food stalls are mostly safe (and delicious), but choose busy vendors with good hygiene practices.
- Emergency contacts. In case of emergencies, dial 112 (ambulance), 155 (police), or 110 (fire). The Irish Embassy in Ankara or the Consulate in Istanbul can assist if needed.
Travel risks in Turkey
While Turkey is a popular destination for Irish tourists, it's important to be aware of certain risks that may affect your travel plans:
- Political unrest. Some areas, especially near the Syrian and Iraqi borders, are not recommended for travel due to ongoing tensions. Always check the IDFA website before booking.
- Petty crime. Pickpocketing and scams can occur in busy tourist hubs like Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum. Be alert in crowds, use hotel safes, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Earthquakes. Turkey is in an active seismic zone. Though major quakes are rare, follow local guidance and hotel safety procedures.
- Road safety. Driving standards can differ significantly from those in Ireland. Rural roads may be poorly maintained, and urban traffic is often hectic. Consider extra cover if you plan to drive.
Frequently asked questions about travel insurance for Turkey
How does Turkey's location affect my travel insurance?
Turkey is a transcontinental country, part in Europe, part in Asia. So it’s not uncommon that people ask whether it’s included in European travel insurance. At JustCover, Turkey is included in European cover.
What activities will I be covered for in Turkey?
That depends on what policy you choose. All three of our main policies will cover you for lighter activities, like snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, sightseeing tours, and hiking.
If you're planning something more adventurous like scuba diving, jet skiing or hopping on a quad bike, you'll need to add extra cover for adventure or water sports. The same goes for group excursions or extreme sports.
When is the best time to visit Turkey?
If you’re travelling for warm weather, the best times to visit Turkey are during spring and autumn. During the summer, the average temperature is around 25.5 °C - with August being the driest month. If you’re looking for some winter sun in Turkey, along the coast to the east of Istanbul (Samsun, Trabzon, Rize), winter is slightly milder.
When should your Turkey travel insurance policy start?
Your policy starts from the date you book your trip, not your departure date. This means you're covered for trip cancellation or changes before you even leave. If you're buying single-trip cover, include the day you depart and the day you return home.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Turkey?
While travel insurance is not legally required for Irish citizens visiting Turkey short-term, it’s strongly recommended. Medical care can be expensive for tourists, and many hospitals and GPs will ask for upfront payment. Having travel insurance can save you a lot of money if you do need medical care abroad.
Is the EHIC valid in Turkey?
No, the EHIC does not cover Turkey, which makes travel insurance essential if you fall ill or require urgent medical care. Without comprehensive cover, you could be left facing significant medical bills, even for relatively minor treatments. Travel insurance can also protect against other unexpected events such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, or delayed flights, giving you peace of mind while you're away.
Can you travel to Turkey with three months left on your passport?
No, your passport must be valid for at least 150 days (around 5 months) from your date of arrival in Turkey. If you have only 3 months left, you’ll need to renew your passport before travelling.
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†. Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in Ireland within the Travel Insurance Company category - January 2025.
* Discount applies to the base price only and does not apply to any premium generated to cover medical conditions or optional extras. This discount is automatically applied and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Discount tiers of 5% for premiums between €0-49, 10% for €50-249, & 20% for €250+ apply. Offer ends at 23:59 on 30/09/25. T&C's apply.