Voluntary insurance is a system that allows people who are not working or who do not have enough insured days in a covered job to benefit from social security rights by paying their own contributions. It offers a significant advantage particularly for individuals who want to secure the right to retirement, who lack health coverage, or who need to complete missing premium days.
What Is Voluntary Insurance?
Voluntary insurance is a type of insurance that enables non-working individuals or those with insufficient contribution days to pay premiums to the Social Security Institution (SGK) and benefit from retirement and health services.
Who Is Eligible?
- People who are not employed in any job,
- Those working on their own business who do not pay insurance premiums,
- Individuals whose insurance coverage has ended,
- People who have not completed the required number of premium days.
Advantages of Voluntary Insurance
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Right to Retirement | Those who pay contributions and meet the required conditions can retire. |
| Health Coverage | Treatment and medication costs are covered under the General Health Insurance scheme. |
| Completing Contribution Days | It is possible to make up for missing premium days. |
| Flexible Payments | Premiums are paid monthly and can be adjusted according to income. |
Conditions for Voluntary Insurance
- Residing in Turkey.
- Being at least 18 years old.
- Not being employed in any job.
- Not having other active insurance coverage.
Premium Requirements
- Premiums are calculated at 32% of the defined minimum wage.
- Of this premium, 20% goes to retirement and 12% covers health insurance.
How to Apply for Voluntary Insurance?
1. Apply at SGK Offices
Apply in person at the Social Security Provincial or Central Directorate that corresponds to your registered residence.
2. Online Application
Applications can be made via the e-Government (E-Devlet) portal using the “Voluntary Insurance Application” option.
3. Required Documents
- Copy of national ID card
- Voluntary insurance enrollment declaration
- Application petition
Application Steps
Apply Through SGK
1- Submit Petition
The applicant fills out the Voluntary Insurance Enrollment Declaration and submits it to SGK.
2- Registration Procedures
SGK registers the applicant and opens an account for premium payments.
Apply Through E-Government
1- Login
Log in to the e-Government system with your Turkish ID number and password.
2- Select Transaction
Choose the “Voluntary Insurance Application” option and complete the form.
Voluntary Insurance Premiums
| Year | Minimum Wage | Premium Rate | Monthly Premium Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 17,002 TL | 32% | 5,440 TL |
| 2025 | 20,000 TL (example) | 32% | 6,400 TL |
Premium amounts are updated each year according to increases in the minimum wage.
What Rights Does Voluntary Insurance Provide?
Retirement
If contributions are paid regularly, the individual becomes eligible for a pension once they meet the retirement age and conditions.
Health Services
The insured person and their dependents are eligible for free healthcare services at public hospitals.
Survivor Pension
In the event of the insured person’s death, eligible relatives can receive a survivor pension.
Cancellation of Voluntary Insurance
- It can be canceled at the person’s request.
- If premium payments stop, insurance coverage ends.
- Coverage ends automatically when the person starts a job with mandatory insurance.
Who Is Voluntary Insurance Suitable For?
1- Homemakers
Non-working homemakers can secure the right to retirement by paying contributions.
2- Farmers
Those working in agriculture who are not covered by agricultural insurance can apply for voluntary insurance.
3- People Living Abroad
Expatriates who want to retire in Turkey can also enroll in voluntary insurance.
Important Considerations for Voluntary Insurance
- Premiums must be paid on time.
- The option to pay retroactive premiums is limited.
- Premium amounts change annually.
- The number of contribution days is critical for retirement calculations.
Voluntary insurance is an important system that provides retirement and health security for individuals who are not working or who have incomplete contribution records. Applying is straightforward both at SGK offices and via the e-Government portal. With regular premium payments, obtaining a pension is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. At what age can one apply for voluntary insurance?
Anyone who is at least 18 years old can apply.
2. How are voluntary insurance premiums paid?
Premiums can be paid through banks that have agreements with SGK and via online payment systems.
3. Can homemakers enroll in voluntary insurance?
Yes, homemakers can pay premiums to gain the right to retirement.
4. Can voluntary insurance be canceled?
Yes, the person can cancel at any time by submitting a petition.
5. Can people living abroad enroll in voluntary insurance?
Yes, expatriates who want to retire in Turkey may apply.