What Expats Must Know to Protect Their SGK Pension and Social Security Rights in Turkey

Many Turkish expats are unaware that their previous SGK contribution years in Turkey may silently expire or become inactive over time.

The most common misconception is that “you must physically return to Turkey to protect or continue these rights.” In reality, a lawyer can legally manage SGK record verification, contribution correction and even retroactive payments (borçlanma) fully via power of attorney.

Unmonitored SGK records may lead to critical risks:

• Inactive files can be archived and left unrecognized in the system.

• Missing contribution years may automatically delay retirement eligibility.

• Declaring permanent abroad residence without legal protection may suspend certain rights.

Example (fictional): A Turkish expat who had 6 years of SGK contributions in Turkey discovered they were never officially recorded. With timely legal action via power of attorney, the missing contributions were restored — securing future pension eligibility.

Retirement rights depend heavily on correct “timing and strategy.” Key opportunities such as retroactive contribution payments, advantage of first employment date, birth service debt for women, military service debt for men can only be used before deadlines pass.

For more information or to initiate protection of your rights, visit the related category:
/labor-social-security-law

In conclusion, expats can absolutely protect their Turkish pension rights without returning — but delaying legal intervention poses serious risk.