The global cancer immunotherapy market is expected to double by 2034, reaching $338.4 billion. This rapid growth means broader access to life-extending treatments. But while immunotherapy is transforming cancer care, it often comes with a high price tag—reaching up to $450,000 in countries like the U.S. That's why many patients are now exploring treatment abroad. For example, in Turkey and Thailand you can save up to 80% without compromising quality, choosing clinics accredited by JCI or ISO. In this article, we break down the cost of immune therapy worldwide.
📌 Key Takeaways: Immunotherapy Costs
💰 Cost savings:
Immunotherapy abroad is up to 80% cheaper than in the U.S and U.K.
Turkey: $8,000–$15,000
Thailand: $8,000–$15,000
Germany: $25,000–$40,000
Israel: $20,000–$35,000
Mexico: $12,000–$25,000
🌍 Top destinations:
Affordable all-inclusive packages (hotel, transfers, coordinator).
JCI-accredited hospitals with extended care.
Table of Contents:
- What Is Immunotherapy For Cancer?
- Immunotherapy Cost Around the World
- All-Inclusive Immunologic Therapy Packages
- Why Does Immunotherapy Cost Vary So Much?
- Chemotherapy vs Immunotherapy Cost Comparison
- Top Destination: Immunotherapy in Turkey vs. Thailand
- Insurance Coverage for Immunotherapy Abroad
- Begin Your Immunotherapy Journey with Bookimed
What Is Immunotherapy For Cancer?
Immunotherapy is a medical treatment that helps the body's immune system recognize and fight cancer. Instead of directly attacking cancer cells like chemotherapy or radiation, immunotherapy teaches the immune system how to find and destroy them.
📌To explain it simply, imagine the body as a kingdom. The immune system is its army, always on guard against threats like viruses, bacteria, and other intruders. But cancer is a clever enemy—it wears disguises, blending in with healthy cells. The army doesn't always see it as a threat.
Immunotherapy gives the immune system new tools, training, or instructions so it can finally recognize the disguised cancer cells and target them precisely.
There are several main types:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Checkpoint inhibitors | Medications that remove the “brakes” from immune cells, allowing them to attack cancer more effectively. |
| CAR-T cell therapy | Doctors take a patient’s immune cells, genetically reprogram them to target cancer, and return them to the body. |
| Cancer vaccines | Teach the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. |
| Cancer treatment vaccines | These vaccines aim to treat existing cancer by stimulating the immune system to attack cancer cells. |
| Monoclonal antibodies | Lab-created proteins that stick to cancer cells and flag them for attack. |
👉The 10-year trial confirms the long-term power of immune therapy. In 945 patients across 21 countries, combining nivolumab and ipilimumab immune checkpoint inhibitors significantly improved survival in advanced melanoma. With effects lasting beyond 6.5 years for many, this study shows that immunotherapy can transform once-fatal cancers into manageable conditions.
💡Often, these treatments are used in combination with other therapies, known as treatment combinations, to enhance their effectiveness.
🎯 Conditions treated by immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is especially effective for advanced, hard-to-treat cancers or those that haven't responded to traditional treatments.
| Cancer Type | Common Immunotherapy |
|---|---|
| Non-small cell lung cancer | PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors |
| Small cell lung cancer | Immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy |
| Triple-negative breast cancer | Atezolizumab + chemotherapy |
| Melanoma | Checkpoint inhibitors |
| Blood cancers (e.g., lymphoma) | CAR-T cell therapy |
| Bladder, liver, prostate | Experimental or newly approved therapies |
💡Since the introduction of Immune system therapy in 2015, survival for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)—the most common type of lung cancer—has significantly improved. In a study of over 190,000 patients, 5-year survival nearly doubled from 6.8% to 10.7%. These results show that immunotherapy is making a real, measurable impact on lung cancer treatment.
Immunotherapy Cost Around the World
The cost of immunotherapy depends heavily on the country where it's performed, the type of cancer, and the specific treatment method.
In high-income countries like the United States, patients often pay 3 to 5 times more for the same therapy compared to countries like Turkey, Thailand, or Belarus.
❗These differences can translate into savings of up to $300,000 or 80% for some patients—especially those needing CAR-T cell therapy for blood cancers.
How much does immunotherapy cost by country?
| Country | Lung cancer | Melanoma | Breast cancer (TNBC) | Blood cancers (CAR-T) | Other solid tumors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | $28,000–$35,000 | $30,000–$38,000 | $28,000–$35,000 | $160,000–$180,000 | $28,000–$35,000 |
| Israel | $22,000–$28,000 | $25,000–$32,000 | $22,000–$28,000 | $130,000–$150,000 | $20,000–$28,000 |
| Mexico | $13,000–$18,000 | $15,000–$20,000 | $13,000–$18,000 | $85,000–$100,000 | $12,000–$18,000 |
| Turkey | $9,000–$12,000 | $10,000–$14,000 | $9,000–$12,000 | $55,000–$65,000 | $8,000–$12,000 |
| Thailand | $9,000–$12,000 | $10,000–$14,000 | $9,000–$12,000 | $55,000–$65,000 | $8,000–$12,000 |
| Belarus | $8,000–$10,000 | $9,000–$11,000 | $8,000–$10,000 | $55,000–$65,000 | $7,000–$10,000 |
| Republic of Korea | $22,000–$28,000 | $25,000–$32,000 | $22,000–$28,000 | $130,000–$150,000 | $20,000–$28,000 |
| Spain | $22,000–$28,000 | $25,000–$32,000 | $22,000–$28,000 | $130,000–$150,000 | $20,000–$28,000 |
| United Kingdom | $22,000–$28,000 | $25,000–$32,000 | $22,000–$28,000 | $130,000–$150,000 | $20,000–$28,000 |
*Prices mentioned are approximate and based on Bookimed's internal data and global trends. Actual costs may vary depending on the clinic, location, and specific treatment requirements.
How much is immunotherapy?
The cost of immunotherapy for prostate cancer in countries like Turkey and Thailand starts from $8,000–$12,000, compared to $50,000–$70,000 in the United States. That's a savings of up to 80% for patients seeking treatment abroad.
The cost of immunotherapy for melanoma ranges from $9,000–$11,000 in Belarus to $75,000 in the U.S., meaning patients could pay 7 to 8 times less depending on where they are treated.
The immunotherapy for liver cancer cost is often grouped under "other solid tumors". It typically ranges from $8,000–$12,000 in Thailand or Turkey, while in the U.S., it may reach $70,000 or more, depending on the drug and hospital fees.
All-Inclusive Immunologic Therapy Packages
Many clinics abroad offer all-inclusive immunotherapy packages that combine treatment with travel services—making care more straightforward and more affordable.
A typical package may include:
Immunotherapy sessions (e.g., Keytruda, CAR-T).
Doctor consultations and diagnostic tests.
Hospital stay or hotel accommodation.
Airport–clinic transfers.
24/7 support and a personal medical coordinator.
- Dr. Yesim Yildirim is a member of the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO).
- Anadolu Medical Center is affiliated with Johns Hopkins Hospital, ensuring top-tier treatment standards.
- Included services: 4* hotel, transfer airport-clinic-airport.
- Stay info: 0 days stay in the hospital, 0 days stay in the hotel, included in the price.
- Treatment method: Drug therapy with Keytruda (1 injection, 200 mg).
- Dr. Isabella Bernaschina is certified by RCG, Mexico's leading medical community in regenerative medicine.
- Medical Center Juventa serves 500 patients annually from Europe, the Arab League States, and the USA.
- Included Services: Improve energy levels, consultation with a physician, apartments, VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 3 days stay in the hotel, food not included, apartments included in the price.
- Method: Rheumatoid arthritis therapy with 100 million stem cells.
- Dr. Yesim Yildirim is a member of the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO).
- Anadolu Medical Center affiliates with Johns Hopkins Hospital, offering top American treatment standards.
- Included services: 4* hotel, transfer airport-clinic-airport.
- Stay info: 5 days stay in the hotel, accommodation not included in the price.
- Dr. Sinan Karaaslan is one of the best oncologists to manage colorectal cancers.
- Anadolu Medical Center is among the top 10 hospitals in the world according to MTQUA.
- Included Services: Blood tests, MRI of one area, PET/CT, Consultation with an oncologist, Consultation with a surgeon, Histopathology revision, Transfer airport-clinic-airport.
- Stay Info: 0 days stay in the hospital, 3 days stay in the hotel, Accommodation is not included in the price.
- Dr. Joan Carles Galceran achieved prominence in bladder cancer treatment through advanced oncological techniques.
- Centro Médico Teknon is the No.1 choice for celebrities, sportsmen, and politicians for medical care.
- Included Services: Complete blood count with cancer markers, proteinogram.
- Stay Info: 1-day stay in the hotel, accommodation not included in the price.
- Method: Keytruda (1 injection, 200 mg).
💚These all-inclusive packages often cost less than booking each service separately, making them a wise choice for those seeking high-quality treatment at a more affordable price.
Why Does Immunotherapy Cost Vary So Much?
The cost of immunotherapy for cancer can differ by tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on where it's received. Here are the main factors that explain the price gap.
Local healthcare pricing
In countries with public healthcare systems, like Spain or Israel, governments negotiate drug prices and offer subsidies—bringing the cost far below U.S. rates. In contrast, U.S. patients often face full market prices.
Patented drugs and biosimilars
Countries like Belarus and Thailand often use biosimilars—safe, lower-cost versions of original biological drugs. This reduces the cost and other treatments significantly. Meanwhile, patented drugs in high-income countries like the U.S. drive costs upward.
Hospital & service fees
The immunotherapy cost per treatment also includes consultations, scans, and infusions. In the U.S., hospital fees can triple the total cost compared to clinics in Turkey or Mexico. Organizations like theWorld Health Organization (WHO) note significant disparities in treatment costs across regions.
Access to support programs
Governments, charities, or manufacturers sometimes offer assistance. For example, Cancer Research UK and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) provide resources on programs that may help reduce immunotherapy costs or help patients join clinical trials.
💡Patients can also seek financial support from various programs to help manage the high costs of immunotherapy.
Chemotherapy vs Immunotherapy Cost Comparison
Chemotherapy is usually cheaper than biological therapy but not consistently more effective—especially for advanced cancers. The immunotherapy cost per treatment is higher due to specialized drugs and fewer global subsidies.
What is the cost of immunotherapy and chemo globally?
| Country | Chemotherapy | Immunotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | $12,000–$20,000 | $25,000–$40,000 |
| Turkey | $6,000–$13,000 | $8,000–$15,000 |
| Mexico | $6,000–$11,000 | $12,000–$25,000 |
| Thailand | $5,000–$9,000 | $8,000–$15,000 |
| USA | $17,000–$40,000 | $50,000–$120,000+ |
Immunotherapy is often 2–3x more expensive but may offer better results for melanoma, prostate, and liver cancers. For example, the cost of immunotherapy for prostate cancer in the U.S. can exceed $100,000, while patients in Turkey may pay under $15,000.
💡The cost of immunotherapy for cancer may also drop sharply in medical tourism destinations, offering savings of up to 80%.
👉Among patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, those with MSI-H tumors (a type with high microsatellite instability) experienced significantly better survival with immunotherapy compared to chemotherapy. In this group, median overall survival was notably longer, with patients treated with immunotherapy having a 43% higher chance of surviving over time.
❗Cancer treatment vaccines are another option that can be considered.
Top Destination: Immunotherapy in Turkey vs. Thailand
With dozens of countries offering cancer care abroad, Turkey and Thailand stand out as top destinations for affordable, high-quality biological therapy.
Turkey
Turkey attracts over 1.5 million medical tourists annually, with cancer treatment among the most in-demand services. Clinics are internationally accredited and tailored for foreign patients.
✅ Pros:
Lower cost. Biological therapy starts at $8,000, including diagnostics and drugs like Keytruda.
All-inclusive packages. Often include 4-star hotels, airport-clinic transfers, and personal coordinators.
Shorter treatment time. Efficient pre-checks and treatment allow stays as short as 7–10 days.
No visa hassle. Visa-free or easy e-visa for most countries.
English-speaking staff: Common in private clinics serving international patients.
❌ Cons:
Follow-up may be remote: Post-treatment monitoring often happens via telemedicine.
Explore the best clinics in Turkey:
- In most of the cases, immunotherapy drugs are prescribed by Prof. Yeshim Yildirim. The doctor has a certification of the European Society for Medical Oncology, the authoritative cancer organization. It confirms a high doctor’s qualification regarding cancer treatment.
- Anadolu cooperates with Johns Hopkins Hospital (USA) which take the 1st place among American cancer centers for 20 years. Anadolu doctors use the newest immunotherapy developments of American specialists.
- Only the latest equipment is used at Anadolu. It us renovated every 1-2 years
Submit a request, and our medical doctor will let you know how much does immunotherapy cost and arrange treatment course at Anadolu within 3 days.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Immunotherapy | $4000 - $8000 |
- An esteemed destination for 250,000 patients annually, specializing in oncology, Hisar Intercontinental Hospital is equipped for sophisticated Immunotherapy procedures.
- The hospital boasts a dedicated Oncology Department, ensuring expert care in Immunotherapy for conditions like breast, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers.
- Dr. Mustafa Solak, with a rich background at prestigious institutions, specializes in various cancers and offers tailored Immunotherapy.
- Equipped with modern medical devices, the hospital provides accurate diagnosis and treatment, vital for the success of Immunotherapy regimens.
- International patients receive comprehensive support, including language assistance and airport transfers, for a seamless Immunotherapy experience.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Immunotherapy | $3500 - $6000 |
Thailand
Thailand is known for its JCI-accredited hospitals, which meet international standards in safety and quality
✅ Pros:
Top-tier hospital care. Treatments are often provided in facilities certified by global bodies like TEMOS International orQHA Trent Accreditation, all of which ensure strict standards for patient safety.
English is widely spoken. Medical teams are highly experienced with international patients.
Extended care. Programs include longer observation and personalized recovery plans (2–4 weeks).
Beautiful recovery environment. Patients enjoy rest in a relaxing, warm climate.
❌ Cons:
Visa may be required: Though usually easy to obtain, some nationalities need a visa.
Explore the best clinics in Thailand:
- You will have a unique opportunity to undergo diagnostics and treatment of oncology applying IBM Watson. It is an innovative supercomputer which analyzes patient’s medical history and compares it with data on the latest developments and cancer cases registered in top oncology centers. You receive the most effective treatment plan for your particular case involving immunotherapy or other therapeutic options.
- Bumrungrad is one of the most technologically advanced hospitals in the world according to Top Master’s in Healthcare Administration.
- 540,000 international patients annually. Patients from the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia choose Bumrungrad for affordable immunotherapy cost and world-class medical services.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Panacee Medical Center offers holistic healthcare, focusing on the body at the cellular level. The clinic’s approach helps patients understand their current physical condition and predict future health trends. It also supports health planning through professional care from both Thai and international experts. The clinic combines various methods, such as vitamin therapy, detoxification, and modern medical treatments, to avoid potential side effects of drugs and chemicals, promoting long-term health and youthfulness.
Services:
- Cell Therapy - Panacee GMP Certified Cell Rejuvenation
- Non-Surgical Orthopedic Treatment
- Anti-Aging Center
- Cardiovascular Program - ECP (External Counter Pulsation Therapy)
- Detoxification Program
- Chelation Therapy
- Liver Detox
- Colon Hydrotherapy
- Phospholipid Treatment
- Protection of Cells and Prevention of Cancer Formation
- Pollution Fighting Program
- Facial Rejuvenation
- Menopausal and Hormone Therapy
- Special Check-Up
- Advanced Laboratory Tests
- Genetics Test
- Food Allergy Test: IgG
- Urine Organic Profile
- Full Check-Up Program
- Ozone Therapy
- Sexual Health
- QRS (Quantum Resonance System) PelviCenter
- Thai Traditional & Medical Cannabis Center
| Immunotherapy | $17500 - $19000 |
Insurance Coverage for Immunotherapy Abroad
When patients travel abroad for cancer care, they often ask: how much does immunotherapy for cancer cost with insurance, and will their plan help cover the expenses?
Domestic insurance (like Medicare or NHS) usually does not cover treatment outside the home country—especially if it's not emergency care. Patients heading to Turkey, Thailand, Mexico, or Israel for immunotherapy typically pay out-of-pocket.
✅ Still, with costs up to 80% lower than in the U.S., treatment abroad may remain the more affordable option—even without coverage.
What's covered (with the right plan)?
Some international insurers partially or fully cover immunotherapy abroad, depending on the policy. Providers likeCigna Global,Allianz Care,GeoBlue, andBupa Global offer plans that may reimburse immunotherapy if pre-approved and done at authorized clinics.
👉 These policies often require pre-authorization, medical records, and treatment at approved facilities.
❌ What's usually not covered?
Exceptions are rare and usually limited to urgent care or special EU cross-border agreements.
💡 How to prepare?
Patients seeking treatment abroad should:
Check if their policy includes international oncology coverage.
Get pre-approval and clarify reimbursement options.
Request a full medical bill from the foreign clinic.
Explore aid programs and clinical trials if coverage is denied.
✅ In summary, most travelers will need to self-fund their treatment abroad. But thanks to significantly lower prices in medical tourism hubs, the cost of immunotherapy for cancer may still be far more manageable than at home—even without insurance.
Begin Your Immunotherapy Journey with Bookimed
Bookimed makes accessing affordable immunotherapy for cancer abroad simple and convenient. Here's how to start your immunotherapy journey:
💚 Browse immuno-oncology treatment options – Explore a variety of treatments and find the best options tailored to your condition and budget.
💚 Submit an inquiry – Fill out a simple form detailing your diagnosis, the type of cancer and any specific preferences for treatment.
💚 Get expert advice – Our experienced medical coordinators will help you choose the best clinic for immuno-oncology treatment for cancer abroad based on your needs, desired outcomes, and financial situation.
💚 Confirm & book – Once you've selected the right clinic, we'll manage all the details, ensuring a smooth process.
💚 Travel arrangements – We assist with flights, accommodation, local transfers, and resolving any unforeseen issues, ensuring a seamless experience.
💚 Full support – Enjoy 24/7 support from your dedicated Bookimed coordinator, offering guidance throughout your stay and immunotherapy treatment journey abroad.
💡Feel free to read immunotherapy treatment reviews on Bookimed. Immunotherapy reviews can help future patients understand the effectiveness, risks, and authentic experiences.
Related Articles
- Cancer Immunotherapy Market Size to Surpass USD 338.40 billion by 2034. (n.d.). Precedence Research - Market Research Reports & Strategic Consulting. https://www.precedenceresearch.com/cancer-immunotherapy-market
- How Medical Tourists In Turkey Balance Travel And Treatment. (n.d.). Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherelliott/2025/03/08/how-medical-tourists-in-turkey-balance-travel-and-treatment/
- Niu, C.-G., Zhang, J., Rao, A.-V., Joshi, U., & Okolo, P. (2024). Comparative effectiveness of immunotherapy and chemotherapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer stratified by microsatellite instability status. World Journal of Clinical Oncology, 15(4), 540–547. https://doi.org/10.5306/wjco.v15.i4.540
- Wolchok, J. D., Chiarion-Sileni, V., Rutkowski, P., Cowey, C. L., Schadendorf, D., Wagstaff, J., Queirolo, P., Dummer, R., Butler, M. O., Hill, A. G., Postow, M. A., Gaudy-Marqueste, C., Medina, T., Lao, C. D., Walker, J., Márquez-Rodas, I., Haanen, J. B. A. G., Guidoboni, M., Maio, M., . . . Larkin, J. (2024). Final, 10-Year Outcomes with Nivolumab plus Ipilimumab in Advanced Melanoma. New England Journal of Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1056/nejmoa2407417