Hire Foreign Employees in Turkey: A Practical Guide for Employers
Turkey’s strategic location, growing economy, and skilled workforce make it an appealing destination for businesses looking to expand. But when it comes to hiring foreign employees, there are specific legal processes and compliance requirements that employers need to navigate carefully.
Whether you’re an international company setting up operations or a local business seeking global talent, this guide walks you through the key steps and legal considerations for hiring foreign workers in Turkey—while helping you avoid common pitfalls along the way.
1. The Legal Landscape: What Governs Foreign Employment in Turkey ?
Hiring foreign nationals in Turkey is regulated by several laws, including:
- Law No. 4817 on Work Permits for Foreigners
- International Labor Law No. 6735
- Turkish Labor Law No. 4857
- Regulations issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS)
These regulations outline who can work, how work permits are granted, and the responsibilities of both employers and foreign employees.
2. Hire Foreign Employees in Turkey / Who Needs a Work Permit?
In most cases, foreign nationals must obtain a valid work permit before starting employment in Turkey. However, there are exceptions:
No work permit needed for:
- Diplomats and government officials
- Foreign spouses of Turkish citizens with long-term residence
- Cross-border service providers on short-term visits
If a foreigner is planning to work full-time, freelance, or even remotely for a Turkish company, a work permit is typically required.
3. Hire Foreign Employees in Turkey / Types of Work Permits Available
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security offers several types of work permits, depending on the employee’s situation and length of stay:
a) Temporary Work Permit
- Valid for 1 year initially
- Renewable for up to 3 years, if staying with the same employer
b) Indefinite Work Permit
- Available to those who have lived in Turkey for at least 8 years
- Requires at least 6 years of legal employment
c) Independent Work Permit
- Designed for freelancers and entrepreneurs
- Applicants must show professional experience and financial stability
d) Turquoise Card
- A fast-track option for highly skilled foreign professionals
- Offers long-term residency and employment rights
4. What Employers Need to Know Before Hiring Foreigners
Before you can bring on a foreign employee, there are specific conditions your company must meet:
- You must employ at least five Turkish citizens for every foreign worker
- Your company’s paid-in capital must be at least 100,000 TRY, or show sufficient turnover
- For certain jobs, you must prove that no qualified Turkish candidate is available
- Certain professions are off-limits to foreigners, including:
- Pharmacists
- Dentists
- Veterinarians
- Notaries
- Security personnel
5. Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Work Permit
Here’s what the process generally looks like for employers:
Step 1: Prepare the Job Offer and Employment Contract
- Provide a formal job offer
- Ensure the salary meets or exceeds Turkey’s minimum wage
- Clearly outline the job title, duties, and terms of employment
Step 2: Submit the Application Online
Employers must submit work permit applications via the Ministry of Labor’s online portal. You’ll need to upload several documents, including:
- Company tax registration and trade registry records
- A copy of the employee’s passport
- Diploma or proof of qualifications
- A recent biometric photo of the employee
Step 3: Review and Approval
The Ministry will evaluate the application based on:
- The labor market need
- Your company’s compliance with regulations
- Your financial and workforce standing
Approval typically takes 30 to 60 days. Once approved, the foreign employee can begin work legally.
6. Don’t Forget the Residence Permit
Foreign workers must apply for a residence permit within 30 days of entering Turkey. This is managed by the Directorate General of Migration Management and is essential for legally living and working in the country.
7. What About Remote Foreign Employees?
If a foreign national is working remotely for a Turkish company while living abroad, they typically don’t need a Turkish work permit. However, employers should:
- Ensure compliance with international tax and social security laws
- Define terms clearly in remote work agreements
- Be aware of cross-border payroll and legal liabilities
8. Costs Involved in Hiring a Foreign Employee
Hiring a foreign worker involves additional costs beyond salary:
- Work permit fees: Around $150–$615 USD, depending on duration
- Residence permit fees: Varies by nationality and permit type
- Social security contributions: Employers pay 22.5% of gross salary
These costs should be factored into your hiring budget from the start.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Employers sometimes run into trouble by:
- Submitting incomplete documentation
- Not meeting the 5:1 Turkish-to-foreign worker ratio
- Misclassifying freelance workers as full-time employees
- Missing key deadlines for permit or residence applications
Staying informed and organized can prevent costly delays or fines.
10. Why Hiring Foreign Talent Is Worth It
Despite the paperwork, hiring foreign professionals can bring big benefits:
- Access to global expertise
- Stronger cultural diversity within your organization
- Competitive edge in international markets
- Fresh ideas and innovation from different perspectives
With the right strategy and compliance in place, foreign hiring can be a game-changer for your business.
Hiring foreign employees in Turkey is entirely doable—but it requires a clear understanding of local laws, careful planning, and attention to detail. From securing work and residence permits to ensuring your company meets employment quotas, each step matters.
If you’re unsure where to start or want to avoid missteps if hire foreign employees in Turkey, consider working with a legal consultant or HR professional who specializes in Turkish labor law. It’s a smart investment that can save time, reduce risk, and help you tap into the talent you need to grow your business.
