Turkey has rapidly emerged as one of the top destinations for medical tourism due to its world-class healthcare infrastructure, competitive pricing, and strategic geographic location between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The growing demand for healthcare services in Turkey, such as cosmetic surgeries, hair transplants, dental care, and fertility treatments, presents a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in establishing a medical tourism company.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of establishing a medical tourism company in Turkey, including the legal requirements, necessary permits, market potential, and the advantages of entering this sector.
Why Start a Medical Tourism Company in Turkey?
1. Growing Medical Tourism Industry
Turkey's medical tourism sector is thriving, with thousands of international patients visiting the country each year. The nation offers advanced healthcare services at affordable prices, attracting patients from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. In 2022 alone, Turkey welcomed more than 1 million medical tourists, generating billions in revenue. This makes the market ripe for new medical tourism companies.
2. High-Quality Healthcare Infrastructure
Turkey has internationally accredited hospitals, state-of-the-art medical facilities, and highly skilled doctors. Many hospitals are certified by Joint Commission International (JCI), ensuring top-notch healthcare standards. Turkey is particularly known for its strengths in cosmetic surgery, orthopedics, oncology, cardiovascular treatments, and IVF.
3. Cost-Effective Treatments
Medical procedures in Turkey are 50-70% cheaper than in Western countries, without compromising on quality. This cost advantage allows medical tourism companies to offer competitive packages to clients seeking affordable yet high-quality medical care.
4. Government Support for Medical Tourism
The Turkish government actively encourages medical tourism through various incentives and initiatives, including tax incentives for medical tourism companies, healthcare infrastructure development, and support for international patient services.
Popular Medical Treatments in Turkey
Turkey provides a wide range of medical services across different specialties. Here are some of the most popular treatments that attract medical tourists:
1. Cosmetic Surgery
Turkey is renowned for cosmetic surgeries, with procedures like:
- Rhinoplasty (nose jobs)
- Breast augmentation
- Liposuction
- Facelifts
- Hair transplants
These surgeries are performed by experienced plastic surgeons at competitive prices compared to other countries.
2. Dental Treatments
Turkey is a hotspot for dental tourism, offering treatments such as:
- Dental implants
- Veneers
- Crowns and bridges
- Teeth whitening
High-quality dental care is available at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.
3. Hair Transplants
One of the most popular medical tourism segments in Turkey is hair transplantation. Advanced techniques like FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) are widely available. The country is often referred to as the hair transplant capital due to its expertise and affordable prices.
4. Fertility Treatments
Many couples choose Turkey for IVF treatments due to the country's advanced fertility clinics and high success rates. Other services include egg donation, surrogacy, and hormonal therapy.
5. Orthopedic Surgeries
Turkey has made significant strides in orthopedic treatments, offering procedures such as:
- Knee and hip replacements
- Spine surgery
- Sports injury treatments
Advanced rehabilitation centers also ensure a smooth recovery for patients.
6. Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery
Turkey offers high-quality care for heart-related issues, with treatments such as:
- Bypass surgery
- Angioplasty
- Pacemaker installations
Many hospitals in Turkey have specialized cardiology departments with cutting-edge technology.
7. Oncology (Cancer Treatment)
Turkey is home to some of the most advanced oncology centers in the region, providing treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical oncology. Multidisciplinary teams work together to create personalized treatment plans for cancer patients.
Cost of Medical Treatments in Turkey
One of the main reasons Turkey is a preferred destination for medical tourism is its affordability. The cost of treatments in Turkey is generally much lower than in Western countries, making it accessible for a wide range of patients.
For example:
- Rhinoplasty in Turkey costs between $2,500 – $4,000, while in the US, it can cost upwards of $8,000.
- Dental implants in Turkey cost around $600 – $1,000 per tooth, compared to $2,000 – $3,000 in the US.
- Hair transplant procedures cost between $1,500 – $3,000 in Turkey, whereas in Europe, the cost can exceed $10,000.
These savings allow patients to access high-quality medical care without the financial burden often associated with these procedures in other countries.
Step-by-Step Guide to Establishing a Medical Tourism Company in Turkey
1. Market Research and Business Plan
Before starting your medical tourism company, conduct comprehensive market research to identify your target audience, services in high demand, and potential competitors. Create a detailed business plan outlining:
- Services you will offer (e.g., cosmetic surgery packages, dental tourism, fertility treatments, etc.)
- Target market (e.g., patients from Europe, Middle East, or North America)
- Pricing strategy
- Marketing and customer acquisition strategy
- Key partnerships with hospitals and healthcare providers
2. Company Structure and Registration
In Turkey, a medical tourism company can be established under various legal entities. The most common forms are:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): Requires a minimum capital of 50,000 TRY and can have one or more shareholders. This is the most popular business structure for foreign investors.
- Joint-Stock Company (A.Ş.): Requires a minimum capital of 250,000 TRY and at least five shareholders. Suitable for larger ventures.
You will need to register your company with the Turkish Trade Registry. Required documents include:
- Articles of association
- Identification documents of shareholders
- Proof of registered office address
- Company registration forms
Click the link of Company Registration in Turkey for detail
Once registered, you'll receive your taxpayer identification number (TIN), which is essential for all legal and financial activities in Turkey.
3. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits
Medical tourism companies must comply with Turkey's healthcare regulations. You'll need to obtain the following licenses and permits:
- Health Tourism Authorization Certificate: Issued by the Ministry of Health. This certificate ensures that your company meets the standards required for offering medical tourism services.
- Travel Agency License: Issued by the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TURSAB). Since medical tourism companies often arrange travel, accommodation, and transportation for patients, this license is essential.
It's important to ensure your business complies with all healthcare and tourism laws, which might require working with a legal consultant familiar with Turkey's regulations.
4. Form Partnerships with Accredited Healthcare Providers
A critical aspect of your business will be forming strategic partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and medical professionals. Look for JCI-accredited hospitals or reputable clinics with experienced medical professionals. Establishing strong relationships with trusted healthcare providers will enhance the credibility of your services.
When forming partnerships, consider:
- Negotiating exclusive rates for your clients
- Ensuring the healthcare provider's services meet international standards
- Creating a seamless referral and communication process between your company and the medical provider
5. Design Attractive Medical Tourism Packages
Create customized medical tourism packages that appeal to your target market. These packages should include:
- Medical procedures (e.g., cosmetic surgery, dental implants, IVF)
- Pre-treatment consultations and post-treatment care
- Accommodation options (hotels or medical recovery centers)
- Transportation (airport pickups, clinic transfers)
- Optional tourism activities (sightseeing, cultural tours)
Offering all-inclusive packages simplifies the process for patients and enhances their overall experience, which is crucial for building trust and attracting referrals.
6. Develop a Strong Online Presence
A strong digital marketing strategy is essential for attracting international patients. Build a user-friendly website that provides detailed information on your services, medical procedures, and success stories. Optimize your website for SEO by targeting relevant keywords such as "medical tourism in Turkey," "cosmetic surgery in Turkey," and "dental implants in Turkey."
Key elements to include on your website:
- Information about your company and services
- Details of medical procedures and packages
- Client testimonials and case studies
- Blog content related to medical tourism and healthcare in Turkey
- Contact information and inquiry forms
In addition to your website, establish a presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to engage with potential clients and build brand awareness.
7. Ensure Legal Compliance and Insurance
Medical tourism companies must ensure that they operate within Turkish laws and international medical standards. Consider working with a legal consultant to navigate the healthcare regulations and contracts with healthcare providers. Additionally, ensure that both your company and your clients are adequately protected by securing medical malpractice insurance and travel insurance.
8. Marketing and Client Acquisition
Your marketing strategy should target international patients, highlighting Turkey's high-quality, affordable medical services. Consider the following marketing techniques:
- SEO and Content Marketing: Optimize your website to rank for search terms like "affordable medical treatments in Turkey" and "best hair transplant clinics in Turkey."
- Social Media Marketing: Use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase patient success stories and interact with potential clients.
- Referral Networks: Build relationships with international referral agencies or medical professionals who can recommend your services to patients abroad.
- Partnerships with Travel Agencies: Collaborate with travel agencies that specialize in medical tourism to promote your services to their clientele.
Key Benefits of Establishing a Medical Tourism Company in Turkey
1. Strategic Location
Turkey's location makes it easily accessible for patients from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya are well connected with international airports and have excellent infrastructure to accommodate medical tourists.
2. Government Support and Incentives
The Turkish government supports medical tourism by offering tax incentives, grants, and subsidies for medical tourism companies. Additionally, the Ministry of Health promotes Turkey as a leading medical tourism destination, attracting international patients.
3. Growing Demand
As healthcare costs rise in Western countries, more people are seeking affordable, high-quality treatments abroad. Turkey's reputation as a medical tourism hub continues to grow, increasing the demand for medical tourism services.
4. Cultural and Touristic Appeal
Turkey offers a blend of healthcare and tourism. Patients can recover in the scenic beauty of Bodrum or Antalya, explore the historic sites of Istanbul, or relax in luxurious spa resorts, enhancing their overall experience.
Failing to obtain or provide a valid TIN when required may lead to significant penalties. These penalties could include:
- Fines for failing to file tax returns.
- Delays in processing financial transactions such as real estate purchases.
- Inability to open bank accounts or engage in business activities.
Contact Us to Register a Medical Tourism Company in Turkey
Establishing a medical tourism company in Turkey is a lucrative business opportunity, driven by the country's high-quality healthcare services, affordable treatment options, and strategic location.
By understanding the legal requirements, forming strategic partnerships with healthcare providers, and developing comprehensive marketing strategies, entrepreneurs can capitalize on Turkey's thriving medical tourism market.
With the right approach, your medical tourism company can provide international patients with an exceptional healthcare experience while contributing to the growing industry in Turkey.
A&M Consulting Company; is an investment consulting company that specializes in establishing end-to-end medical tourism companies in Turkey, especially for foreign individual entrepreneurs and global companies that want to enter the Turkish market,
We continue to offer cost-effective solutions that will make it easier for individual entrepreneurs, global investors and companies that want to invest in Turkey and expand their businesses in the Turkish market to fully comply with local legislation and access tax exemptions.
FAQs About Establishment of Medical Tourism Company in Turkey
What are the legal requirements to start a medical tourism company in Turkey?
You need to register your business with the Turkish Trade Registry, obtain a Health Tourism Authorization Certificate, and comply with local healthcare and tourism regulations.
What type of business structure is best for a medical tourism company in Turkey?
The most common structures are Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Joint-Stock Company (A.Ş.), depending on the scale and number of shareholders.
What licenses are required to operate a medical tourism company in Turkey?
You must obtain a Health Tourism Authorization Certificate from the Ministry of Health and a Travel Agency License from the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TURSAB).
What services can a medical tourism company in Turkey offer?
Common services include organizing medical procedures (cosmetic surgery, dental care, IVF), accommodation, travel arrangements, and post-treatment care.
How do I form partnerships with hospitals or clinics in Turkey?
Build relationships with accredited healthcare providers, particularly JCI-accredited hospitals, and negotiate service agreements that ensure high standards of care for your clients.
Are there government incentives for medical tourism companies in Turkey?
Yes, the Turkish government offers various tax incentives, grants, and subsidies to promote the medical tourism sector.
How much capital is required to establish a medical tourism company in Turkey?
For an LLC, the minimum capital is 50,000 TRY, while a Joint-Stock Company requires a minimum capital of 250,000 TRY.
How can I attract international clients for medical tourism in Turkey?
Through SEO-optimized websites, social media marketing, partnerships with referral agencies, and providing attractive medical tourism packages.
Do I need to have medical professionals on staff for a medical tourism company?
While it's not mandatory, having medical professionals or healthcare consultants on staff can enhance credibility and help coordinate medical procedures.
What insurance is necessary for a medical tourism company in Turkey?
You'll need medical malpractice insurance and travel insurance to protect your business and clients.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.