What is international patient transfer?
It is the movement of a patient from one country to another under medical supervision. Typical reasons: a relative living abroad wants to continue treatment in Türkiye, a visitor who fell ill on holiday in Tekirdağ is returning home, or treatment continues at a centre in another country.
The transfer can be made overland by ambulance, by air ambulance or on a scheduled flight with a medical escort. The patient’s condition, the distance and the time available decide the method.
Why Tekirdağ is a practical starting point
| Border gate | Province | Neighbouring country |
|---|---|---|
| Kapıkule | Edirne | Bulgaria |
| Hamzabeyli | Edirne | Bulgaria |
| Dereköy | Kırklareli | Bulgaria |
| İpsala | Edirne | Greece |
| Pazarkule | Edirne | Greece |
This shortens overland transfers towards Bulgaria, Greece, Romania and Germany. See Tekirdağ – Edirne and Tekirdağ – Kırklareli.
Documents usually required
- Passports (and visas where needed) for the patient and companion
- A current medical report and discharge summary, ideally in English or the destination language
- A doctor’s note that the patient is fit to travel
- Medication list and prescriptions for medicines carried
- An acceptance letter or appointment confirmation from the receiving hospital
Requirements differ by country and change over time; confirm the exact list with the consulate and the receiving hospital.
Steps
- Initial assessment with the treating doctor
- Written confirmation from the receiving facility
- Method and route: road or air, border gate and stops
- Paperwork and translations
- The journey, with border formalities followed by the crew
- Handover to the receiving team with all documents
Patients arriving in Türkiye
Patients can be met at the airport or border gate and taken to a hospital in Tekirdağ or Istanbul. Share flight details early so that airport arrangements can be made.
Frequently asked questions
Road or air?
Road suits short and medium distances; air is preferred for long distances or urgent cases. The decision is made with the treating doctor.
Does the companion need a visa?
Yes. Everyone travelling with the patient must hold the documents required to enter the destination country.
Will there be a wait at the border?
It depends on traffic at the gate. Priority is requested for ambulances where possible, but waiting time cannot be guaranteed.