Turkey's Social Security Institution (SGK) provides a comprehensive system covering health insurance, pensions, unemployment benefits, and more for both Turkish citizens and foreign residents working legally in the country. Understanding SGK's structure and benefits is essential for anyone employed in Turkey.

What Is SGK?

Established in 2006, SGK unified various social security entities to streamline services for all workers in Turkey. Whether you're a Turkish national or a foreign employee with a valid work permit, SGK ensures access to comprehensive social benefits.

Types of Insurance Coverage (Sigortalılık Kapsamı)

SGK categorizes insured individuals based on employment type:

1. 4/a: Employees working under a contract in the private sector
2. 4/b: Self-employed individuals, including business owners and freelancers
3. 4/c: Public servants and civil employees

Each category has its own contribution rates and entitlements.

Mandatory SGK Contributions

Both employers and employees are required to contribute to SGK, with rates varying based on employment type and risk category:

For Employees:

1. Pension Insurance: 9% (employee) + 11% (employer)
2. Health Insurance: 5% (employee) + 7.5% (employer)
3. Unemployment Insurance: 1% (employee) + 2% (employer)
4. Short-Term Insurance (e.g., work accidents): 0% (employee) + 2.25% (employer)

Total contributions typically amount to approximately 15% from the employee and 22.75% from the employer.

Health Insurance Benefits

SGK provides universal health coverage, granting insured individuals and their dependents access to:

1. Public hospitals and affiliated private medical institutions
2. Subsidized or free medical treatments
3. Prescription medications at reduced costs
4. Coverage for chronic diseases and maternity care

Foreign nationals with valid residence permits and SGK registration enjoy the same healthcare benefits as Turkish citizens.

Additional Medical Charges (İlave Ücret)

While SGK covers a large portion of healthcare costs, patients may encounter additional fees in private hospitals or for certain services. These out-of-pocket costs—known as İlave Ücret—vary depending on the institution’s class and service type.

Retirement and Pension System

To qualify for a retirement pension under SGK, individuals must meet specific conditions regarding age and contribution periods. Generally, the retirement age is 58 for women and 60 for men, with minimum contribution periods ranging from 15 to 25 years.

Foreigners who have contributed to SGK may be eligible for pensions, and Turkey has bilateral agreements with several countries to facilitate the transfer of pension rights.

Early Retirement and Disability Pensions

In special cases—such as occupational injuries or chronic illness—individuals may qualify for early retirement or disability pensions, depending on medical evaluations and contribution history.

Maternity and Paternity Benefits

1. Maternity Leave: 16 weeks (8 weeks before and after childbirth) with a daily allowance, provided the employee has contributed for at least 90 days in the past year.
2. Paternity Leave: 5 days of paid leave for fathers.

Unemployment Insurance

SGK, in collaboration with the Turkish Employment Agency (İŞKUR), offers unemployment benefits to individuals who:

1. Have worked and paid unemployment insurance premiums for at least 600 days in the last three years
2. Were employed for the last 120 days before unemployment
3. Lost their job involuntarily

Eligible individuals receive monthly payments and job-seeking support.

Bilateral Social Security Agreements

Turkey has signed bilateral social security agreements with numerous countries, including Germany, France, and the Netherlands. These agreements aim to:

1. Prevent double social security contributions
2. Ensure the portability of pension rights
3. Allow the aggregation of insurance periods from both countries

Foreign nationals should consult SGK or their home country's social security institution for specific provisions.

Conclusion

Understanding Turkey's social security system is crucial for both locals and expatriates. SGK provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring healthcare, retirement, and other essential benefits. Staying informed about contributions and entitlements helps in maximizing the benefits of the system.

For more detailed information or personalized guidance, visit the official SGK website: www.sgk.gov.tr.