General Overview

Turkey, strategically located between Europe and Asia, has a dynamic and growing economy driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and a burgeoning service sector. The country provides a robust legal framework for employee rights, making it an attractive destination for workers and businesses alike.

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Employment Contracts

Employment contracts longer than 1 year must be in writing. Common contract types:

• ‍Indefinite-term contracts: Default employment type.
• Fixed-term contracts: Used for specific tasks or events.

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Probation Period

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• The probation period is capped at 2 months but can be extended to 4 months via collective bargaining agreements.
• During this time, either party may terminate the contract without notice or severance obligations.

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Working Hours

Standard workweek: 45 hours. Daily work hours: Maximum 11 hours. Overtime is capped at 270 hours annually and must be paid at a higher rate.

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Vacation Days

Annual leave depends on the length of service:

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• 14 days for 1–5 years of service.
• 20 days for 5–15 years.
• 26 days for over 15 years.

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Employees cannot waive their right to annual leave.

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Sick Leave

Employees are entitled to sick leave in case of illness or injury.

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• If sick leave exceeds the notice period by 6 weeks, the employer may terminate the contract with severance.
• Sick pay is provided through government disability programs, not by employers.

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Wages and Salary Payment

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• Minimum wage for 2024: Approximately €400 per month (updated annually).
• Salaries are typically paid at the end of the month or within the first 5 days of the following month.

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Public Holidays

Turkey observes 15 public holidays, including:

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• January 1: New Year’s Day.
• April 23: National Sovereignty & Children’s Day.
• May 1: Labor and Solidarity Day.
• Religious holidays: Ramadan (3.5 days) and Eid al-Adha (4.5 days).

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If employees work during public holidays, they are entitled to additional pay.

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Employer Taxes

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• Employers contribute 20.5% of gross wages to social security.
• Unemployment insurance: 2% of gross wages.

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Employee Taxes

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• Employees pay 14% of gross wages to social security.
• Income tax rates are progressive, ranging from 15% to 40%.

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Notice Period

The minimum notice period depends on the length of employment:

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• 2 weeks: Less than 6 months.
• 4 weeks: 6–18 months.
• 6 weeks: 18 months to 3 years.
• 8 weeks: Over 3 years.

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Termination and Severance Pay

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• Employees with 1 year of continuous employment are eligible for severance pay.
• Severance is calculated as 1 month’s gross salary per year of service, capped by government regulations and exempt from income tax.