Key takeaways
- Istanbul has many international schools across major curricula - apply early.
- Turkish private schools offer quality bilingual options at lower cost.
- Private hospitals are modern, multilingual and competitively priced.
- Health insurance is affordable and required for a residence permit.
For families relocating to Istanbul, schooling and healthcare are top priorities - and the city delivers strongly on both. Here is what foreign families need to know.
International schools
Istanbul has a wide choice of international schools following British, American, IB, French, German and other curricula, concentrated on both the European and Asian sides. Places at the most sought-after schools fill early, so plan ahead.
Turkish and private schools
High-quality Turkish private schools offer bilingual programmes and are more affordable than international schools. Public schooling is free but taught in Turkish.
Universities
Istanbul is home to leading universities, several with strong international rankings and English-language programmes - a draw for families with older children.
Healthcare
Turkey's private hospitals are modern, well-equipped and staffed by internationally trained doctors, with short waiting times and competitive prices. Many hospitals have international patient departments with multilingual staff.
Health insurance
Private health insurance is affordable and is also required for a residence permit. Residents can additionally access the public health system (SGK) after registering.
Settle in with support
Choosing a home near the right school and hospital matters. Our relocation team and advisors help families pick the right district.
Frequently asked questions
- Are there international schools in Istanbul?
- Yes - a wide range following British, American, IB, French, German and other curricula, on both the European and Asian sides. Popular schools fill early.
- Is healthcare in Istanbul good for foreigners?
- Yes. Private hospitals are modern and internationally staffed with short waiting times, and many have multilingual international patient departments.
- Do I need health insurance in Turkey?
- Yes - private health insurance is affordable and required for a residence permit; residents can also access the public SGK system after registering.
