Frequently asked questions for life in the UK and new arrivals, plus trusted links
Short, sourced answers to the questions our community asks most. Newest first.
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Clear filtersThe UK is an exception that allows for voluntary social security contributions in Turkey without the requirement of residency in Turkey. However, this must be evaluated alongside retirement conditions, healthcare rights, and employment status.
As of October 2026, in general: the UK-Turkey convention lets periods in both countries be counted together, and each country pays its own share separately. No amount is guaranteed; the official bodies must be asked.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK says the State Pension can be claimed from abroad through the International Pension Centre. Turkey appears on the annual-increase list, but the only date shown on that list page is 2014.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK says the new State Pension needs at least 10 qualifying years. The general rule for the full amount is 35 years (the calculation differs if your record began before April 2016). Gaps can sometimes be filled with voluntary Class 3 payments.
As of October 2026, we found no clear, single rule on SGK pages for people living in the UK; the pages frame it differently. Voluntary insurance and buying past periods abroad are different things. The question should be put to SGK in writing.