Mandatory Health Insurance Doubles Overnight Across Turkey

Millions of people in Turkey who do not work in insured jobs are waking up to a significant financial blow. Social Security Specialist Özgür Erdursun announced that General Health Insurance (GSS) premiums were increased by 100 percent as of December 1. Even more concerning, this is only the first wave. A second automatic increase is scheduled to take effect with the new minimum wage in January.

The sudden change marks one of the most significant premium hikes in recent years. Since GSS payments are mandatory for uninsured individuals who are not covered through family members, the new tariff immediately impacts low-income groups, the unemployed, and young adults who recently lost student coverage.

Monthly Premium Jumps From 780 TL to 1,560 TL

Under normal conditions, GSS premiums are calculated as 3 percent of the gross minimum wage. However, a regulatory amendment increased this rate to 6 percent. The adjustment instantly doubled the monthly amount owed by millions.

Until November 30, individuals were paying 780 TL per month. As of December 1, 2025, the new premium has risen to 1,560 TL. This sudden escalation not only raises the monthly financial burden but also magnifies existing debts for those who have fallen behind on payments or were considering restructuring their obligations.

According to experts, the increase may create further barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable groups who already struggle to meet mandatory payments.

A Second Wave of Increases Expected in January 2026

Erdursun underscored a second critical point. Because GSS premiums are tied directly to the gross minimum wage, any increase in the minimum wage scheduled for January 2026 will automatically push premiums even higher.

He outlined several scenarios to illustrate the magnitude of the upcoming impact. If the minimum wage increases by 25 percent in 2026, the premium will rise from 1,560 TL to 1,950 TL. If the increase reaches 30 percent, premiums will climb to 2,028 TL.

This means that someone who paid 780 TL only two months ago may find themselves paying more than 2,000 TL per month by January. Erdursun warned that the combined effect of the December increase and the January adjustment could amount to a total rise of up to 160 percent in just two months.

“Target Inflation Is 20 Percent, Mandatory Increase Is 160 Percent”

In his social media posts, Erdursun strongly criticized the discrepancy between the government’s inflation targets and the dramatic increase in essential payments, such as health insurance.

He noted:
“On one side, you have the targeted inflation levels of around 20 percent. On the other hand, you have a mandatory payment item that increases by 150 to 160 percent within two months.”

The expert stressed that such a steep rise places a heavy burden on unemployed individuals and low-income households. GSS premiums are essential for access to public healthcare services, which makes the affordability of these payments a critical social issue.

Who Has to Pay This New Amount?

The increase affects all individuals who are required to pay GSS premiums. This includes:

People who are not working in insured jobs.

Individuals who cannot benefit from healthcare coverage through their family due to age limits or the end of their student status.

Those who undergo a household income test and whose per capita income is higher than one-third of the minimum wage.

Millions fall into these categories, making the new premium levels a widespread concern.

Income Test Is Crucial to Avoid Debt

A key warning accompanies the new tariff. Individuals who do not have the financial ability to pay should immediately apply for an income test at the Social Assistance and Solidarity Foundation in their district.

If the household’s per capita income is determined to be below one-third of the minimum wage, the state covers the GSS premium in full. If not, individuals will be required to pay the full amount, which is now 1,560 TL and expected to exceed 2,000 TL in January.

Failing to take action means the new premium amount will automatically accumulate as debt month by month.

A Mounting Challenge for Vulnerable Groups

The GSS premium increase comes amid high living costs, rising expenses, and widespread financial strain. As the January adjustment approaches, millions are concerned about how they will afford yet another essential payment.

For many households, the mandatory health insurance premium may become one of the most significant monthly expenses, raising urgent questions about affordability, access to healthcare, and the growing pressure on low-income communities.