Turkey Offers Covid Medical Insurance Coverage for International Tourists
To safely attract tourists amidst the pandemic, Turkey has implemented new COVID-19 health insurance coverage, available from July 1. This insurance is specifically designed for international tourists, offering medical protection against COVID-19 during their stay in the country.
Why Is Turkey Offering COVID-19 Health Insurance?
The initiative to provide COVID-19 health insurance comes in response to travel restrictions and advisories from other countries. Many international health insurance providers exclude coverage in high-risk destinations. For instance, Germany has recommended its citizens avoid travel to Turkey and other destinations where virus incidence remains high.
Official Presentation of the COVID-19 Medical Insurance in Antalya
Turkey’s Minister of Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, presented this initiative at the “Re Turkey” event in Antalya. The event gathered 51 ambassadors and international journalists, where it was explained that the main goal of this coverage is to provide peace of mind and safety to tourists, with the hope of encouraging more people to visit the country.
Health Insurance Packages for International Tourists
Turkey has designed three insurance options, each with different prices and coverage levels to cater to tourists’ needs:
- 15-euro package: Medical coverage up to 3,000 euros.
- 19-euro package: Medical coverage up to 5,000 euros.
- 23-euro package: Medical coverage up to 7,000 euros.
Safe Tourism Certification Program
The Safe Tourism Certification Program launched by Turkey provides a control system to ensure health and safety measures in airports, transport, and accommodations. According to Minister Ersoy, this program was one of the first of its kind worldwide and reassures tourists that Turkey cares about their health and safety. This certification covers all aspects of travel, allowing tourists to feel secure on their journeys.
Travel Restrictions and Response to Germany’s Travel Advisory
Germany currently keeps Turkey on its list of 130 high-risk COVID-19 countries—those with 50 or more infections per 100,000 inhabitants per week or that do not provide reliable information on the health situation. As a result, Germany’s travel advisory for Turkey will be extended until at least August 31.
With this new insurance coverage, Turkey hopes to ease restrictions and address travel concerns for German tourists by providing medical support should they contract COVID-19 during their stay. According to Turkish authorities, this measure strengthens not only safety but also tourists’ confidence in Turkey as a destination.
Hope for Tourism in Turkey
The implementation of COVID-19 health insurance coverage is just one of Turkey’s strategies to reactivate tourism during the pandemic. Turkey’s confidence in its ability to offer safe tourism reflects its commitment to the tourism industry and its role in the country’s economy. The government believes this initiative will allow tourists to enjoy their trip without additional concerns.
Turkey invites international tourists to visit its impressive destinations and explore its rich history, culture, and natural beauty—now with the assurance of medical coverage designed for these challenging times.
