The British Embassy has released a statement about the Turkish Governments new SGK healthcare scheme and how it affects certain expat residents.

The statement from them is as follows:

"As we posted yesterday, we are aware of the confusion and concern in the community over the new healthcare requirements for certain foreign nationals that the Turkish authorities have just announced; and over the additional confusion caused by the way in which regional offices are apparently applying the new policy inconsistently.

As those who have lived in Turkey for some time will recall, we were initially told in 2010 that a compulsory healthcare scheme was going to be launched. We were later informed that implementation had been delayed until December 2012; and then that the scheme was likely to be cancelled.

In the meantime, some British nationals wanted to join the scheme and were able to do so. However, late last year some people experienced problems relating to their pension/NHS status. They asked us to assist, which we did.

We were not officially notified by the Turkish authorities that the scheme was being reintroduced this year and that it would be compulsory for all long-term residents.

The Turkish authorities have now announced that the scheme became effective on 1/1/12.

In the document passed to us, it appears that once a non-Turkish resident completes one year of residence in Turkey, they must apply to join the scheme.

It applies to all nationalities not covered by the health scheme of their own country.

British nationals who have lived in Turkey for one year will receive a letter about joining the scheme and then have one month to register.

We are in touch with the Turkish authorities, including through the Ambassador, to register our concern; to discuss the implications of this measure if it is implemented as announced; and to protect the interests of our community.

We would like to thank those of you who have taken the trouble to write to us. We will keep you informed of developments through our website and facebook pages."

Another Step

Today's official announcement is a welcome addition to the information void that has existed since the issue came to light on 13 January.

However, many questions still remain and we await clarification from the Turkish authorities.