Voluntary national insurance contributions and pension for years prior moving to the UK

A question about NI gap years and pension: As a foreigner, I worked around 2001 for the first time a year in the UK. Did pay NI contributions but asked to be paid back when I left. So that year does not qualify. Since 2011 I work in the UK and pay NI contributions. I have now around 14 qualifying years. I have Gap years in my UK pension: for 2006-2010, which I could pay voluntary. Can I pay for these years voluntary and would they qualify for my state pension? Reason I ask: I moved to the UK in 2011. Though I did work for a short year before in the UK.

Hi Rob,
It may be possible to pay voluntary contributions from the 2006-2007 tax year.  
I would recommend that you obtain a State Pension Forecast before applying to pay any voluntary contributions.  
You may obtain this from:  Check your State Pension forecast
Once you’ve checked your State Pension Forecast then you may wish to speak with the National Insurance Helpline on 0300 200 3500 to arrange payment of
any voluntary contributions that you wish.
Thank you.