Employment Law in Turkey: Rights and Obligations
Moving to Turkey as an expat opens up new experiences, but it also comes with uncertainties, especially about your work rights. Adapting to a new legal landscape can feel overwhelming when you want to ensure fair treatment on the job. Understanding Turkish employment law empowers you to build a secure foundation and protects you in case of disputes. This blog breaks down key rights and obligations so you can work with peace of mind.
Your Right to a Written Employment Contract
Turkish law requires all employment agreements over 30 days to appear in writing. A clear contract ensures you know what to expect, making transitions smoother for expats who may face language and cultural barriers.
- Details about job scope, location, and working hours
- Salary, payment cycle, and any additional benefits
- Provisions for holidays, sick leave, and probation periods
- Terms surrounding contract termination and notice periods
Having a signed agreement in your language can be negotiated, reducing misunderstandings when you need to refer back. For example, if an employer attempts to alter your working hours, the written contract protects your original agreement.
Work Permits and Equal Treatment for Foreigners
Turkey’s legal framework offers protection against discrimination for expats with valid work permits. Your work card gives you the right to equal working conditions as local colleagues. This policy ensures a fair and welcoming workplace.
- Same salary rates for equal work
- Access to healthcare and social security benefits
- Right to join labor unions
- Equal workplace safety standards
For example, if you find your paycheck is less than those of Turkish peers in similar roles, you have the legal ground to demand equal pay. Obtaining your work permit first is crucial, as working without it can lead to fines or even deportation.
Understanding Your Working Hours and Overtime Pay
The Turkish Labor Law sets a 45-hour maximum workweek, usually spread across six days. This limit helps you maintain a healthy work-life balance even if cultural expectations around working late differ from your home country.
- Maximum 7.5 hours regular work per day
- Overtime pay at 1.5 times standard hourly rate
- Voluntary overtime with written consent
- No mandatory overtime for pregnant workers or those with medical notes
Imagine you are asked to stay late during a busy season. The law ensures overtime is compensated or you may opt for time off in lieu. Always document extra hours to ensure accurate pay and prevent misunderstandings about expectations.
Leaves, Holidays, and Social Security Benefits
Turkey mandates specific leave entitlements, giving expat workers time to rest or recover when needed. Understanding these helps you take your rightful breaks and plan family visits without fear of job loss.
- At least 14 days of paid annual leave (after one year of service)
- Official public and religious holidays off
- Paid sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, and bereavement leave
- Unemployment and retirement contributions through social security
For instance, if you fall ill, your employer must report your absence for you to draw social security payments. These leaves also cover religious holidays, allowing you to observe cultural traditions without jeopardizing your position.
Termination, Severance, and Your Legal Safeguards
Turkish employment law protects against unfair dismissal and provides transparent severance procedures. This assurance adds peace of mind for expats adjusting to a new job market.
- Advance notice periods based on tenure (2–8 weeks)
- Compensation for layoffs after one year of service
- Right to contest terminations in labor courts
- Immediate termination only for just cause (e.g., theft, violence)
Suppose your employment ends suddenly. You have the option to file a grievance and seek support from legal advisors, unions, or public ombudsmen. Honest negotiations around settlement and timelines are protected under law, helping you safely transition to the next role or depart the country.
Navigating employment law as an expat can seem daunting, but knowing your rights and obligations makes the process manageable. Secure strong relationships at work while protecting your interests by staying informed about the rules that shape your career in Turkey.
