Due to the coronavirus pandemic, a number of rights and benefits have been granted to healthcare workers who are on the front lines of the response. One of the most significant measures ensures free use of public transportation for healthcare staff.
Social Benefits for Healthcare Workers
As COVID-19 cases rose and healthcare workers performed critical duties in the fight against the pandemic, a variety of benefits were introduced. Implemented through cooperation between the Ministry of Health and local municipalities, these measures cover a wide range of areas from rehiring after resignation to free public transport. One early change allowed exceptions for reappointment to public service after resignation when requested by the Ministry of Health. Under this arrangement, appointments to healthcare and auxiliary healthcare service positions were treated as exemptions. This opened the door to appointing personnel to health-related positions after resignation—appointments that had not been made for three to four years—making rehiring from outside candidates possible again.
In addition to personnel appointment policies, healthcare workers have been granted free access to municipal public transportation. Buses, metros, trams, ferries, and metrobuses operated by municipalities are available at no cost to eligible healthcare staff. The practice began in major cities such as Istanbul and Ankara and quickly expanded to other provinces. Although some municipalities later discontinued free transit for healthcare workers, many large cities continue to offer this benefit.
How Long Does Free Transportation Last?
The duration of free public transport for healthcare workers is determined by municipal decisions rather than a central ministerial decree. As a result, there is no single national end date for this entitlement. While the pandemic remains active, most municipalities have indicated they will continue the measure at least through the end of the year. Major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara have maintained the program.
Eligibility is based on employment as a healthcare worker. Doctors, dentists, nurses, midwives, patient care attendants, health officers, paramedics, hospital security staff, and other hospital employees are typically eligible for free transportation. The benefit does not require working directly with COVID-19 units—hospital employees across roles generally qualify.
How to Obtain the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Free Card
The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality free card allows healthcare workers to use public transportation across the city at no charge. Staff employed in institutions affiliated with the Ministry of Health are eligible. In addition to free transit, the card can be used to park personal vehicles in İSPARK-operated parking facilities without charge.
Card application steps are as follows:
- Healthcare workers seeking free parking and public transportation must apply through the Istanbulkart website. Applicants need to register on the site and ensure all requested information is completed accurately.
- After logging in, select the option to obtain an Istanbulkart, then choose the “Healthcare Worker Card” on the page that opens.
- Complete the online application form and upload a passport-style photograph. Photos must be head-and-shoulders passport-type images; full-body, profile, or other angles are not accepted.
- A one-time card fee must be paid online. The card issuance fee is 10 TL and must be paid with a debit or credit card. Bank transfer (havale) or EFT payments are not accepted.
- After submitting the application, you can check the application status online. Applications are processed and updated, and the card will be delivered to the specified address via PTT within two business days.
These measures aim to support healthcare personnel by easing transportation and related logistical burdens, enabling them to continue their essential work during the ongoing public health crisis.