Insurance Law in Turkey

Our firm, with its team of legal professionals experienced in insurance law provides support to companies and individuals for their legal issues arising from insurance matters. We provide legal consulting related to Turkish Insurance Law such as legal dispute resolution arising from insurance contracts, legal support in insurance administrative audits and make the necessary legal applications.

What Is Turkish Insurance Law and Who Does It Apply To?

Insurance Law in Turkey is primarily governed by Law No. 5684 and the Turkish Commercial Code, along with regulations issued by the Insurance and Private Pension Regulatory Authority (SEDDK).

Any party — individual or corporate — that purchases, sells, or manages insurance policies involving Turkish parties or assets is subject to this legal framework. This includes:

• Turkish citizens residing in the UK who hold active Turkish insurance policies
• UK citizens with property or business operations insured in Turkey
• International companies working with Turkish insurers or reinsurers
• Foreign investors requiring coverage for commercial assets in Turkey

Common areas covered include life insurance, motor vehicle coverage, health insurance, fire and earthquake policies, professional indemnity, transport insurance and more.

Due to the complexity of the rules, and the strict time limits for filing claims or appeals, legal guidance is highly recommended when dealing with Turkish insurance matters.

Can Foreign Nationals or UK Companies Claim Insurance in Turkey?

Yes — foreigners and foreign companies can legally hold and enforce insurance policies in Turkey. However, complications often arise when:

• The insurer refuses or delays paying out
• Policy wording is vague or poorly translated
• The insured item is in Turkey but the owner is abroad
• The claim is denied based on technical formalities
• International brokers are involved in policy structuring

We assist UK-based clients by reviewing policy terms, managing the claims process, and initiating litigation when needed — all while coordinating with Turkish insurers and regulators on your behalf.

What Legal Remedies Are Available for Insurance Disputes in Turkey?

If an insurance company denies, underpays, or delays a claim, Turkish law offers several options for resolution. These include:

1. Internal complaint procedures with the insurer
2. Mediation or arbitration, if stipulated in the insurance contract
3. Judicial proceedings before the Turkish Civil Courts 
4. Administrative appeals to the Turkish Insurance Regulator

Common dispute areas include:

• Rejection of claims based on alleged misrepresentation
• Disputes over the scope of coverage
• Delays in processing or paying out indemnities
• Refusal to renew policies
• Professional liability or indemnity insurance conflicts

Our lawyers handle these disputes, working with expert appraisers and local institutions to enforce your rights.

How Are Insurance Contracts Regulated in Turkey?

Turkish insurance contracts must be:

• Clear and specific in terms of scope, premium, and coverage
• Compliant with standard terms issued by regulatory authorities
• Backed by full disclosure from the policyholder at the time of signing
• Subject to strict deadlines for notifications and claims

Importantly:

• Ambiguities are interpreted in favour of the insured
• Failure to disclose material risks may void the contract
• Grace periods and premium payments are strictly enforced

We review contracts before signing and help resolve coverage disputes afterward — especially where wording or translations are unclear.

Do You Need Legal Support During Insurance Audits in Turkey?

If your company operates in Turkey — for example, through a branch, subsidiary or joint venture — it may be subject to regulatory audits by Turkish insurance or financial authorities. These audits may examine:

• Internal insurance compliance policies
• Validity of contracts and reinsurance arrangements
• Solvency, risk management and premium reserves
• Disclosures to customers and distribution practices

Our legal team supports corporate clients in preparing for and responding to such audits, especially where documentation is in English, or processes are conducted remotely from the UK. We also represent clients in administrative appeals or penalties arising from findings in regulatory inspections.

Why Work With UT Legal?

• Dual-qualified lawyers in both Turkey and the UK
• Experience in insurance disputes, claims management, and policy enforcement
• Legal support for both individuals and companies
• Seamless coordination with insurers, brokers, regulators, and courts
• Full remote representation via power of attorney if needed

We help you recover what’s owed, minimise risk, and navigate the complexities of Turkish insurance law — even from the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions: Insurance Law in Turkey

Can I claim insurance from the UK for a Turkish policy?

Yes. We can manage the process on your behalf via a notarised power of attorney.

What if a Turkish insurer denies my claim?

You have legal remedies — including court action, mediation, and regulatory complaints. We help assess and pursue the best option.

Is my UK travel or health insurance valid in Turkey?

Not always. Some UK policies may exclude Turkey, so separate Turkish coverage may be required.

Can I sue an insurance company in Turkey?

Yes — if the policy or dispute is governed by Turkish law or the insurer is based in Turkey.

Are Turkish insurance contracts different from UK ones?

Yes. They follow different statutory terms and may lack the flexibility or clarity of UK policies. We interpret and explain your rights under Turkish law.