Navigating the complexities of Turkish labor law and Turkish employment law is essential for businesses and employees in Istanbul, Turkey’s economic hub. At Kalem Law Office Istanbul, led by Enes Nergiz, an experienced Istanbul labor lawyer (Bar No: 6281), we provide expert legal services to ensure compliance with the Labor Code Turkey. From drafting employment contracts Turkey to resolving labor disputes Turkey, our firm supports local businesses, foreign nationals, and EEA citizens. Whether you need assistance with work permits Turkey, severance pay Turkey, or workplace safety Turkey, we are your trusted partner.
Turkish labor law is governed by a robust legal framework designed to balance employee rights and employer obligations. Key legislation includes:
These laws, combined with the Social Insurance and General Health Insurance Law (No. 5510), ensure comprehensive protections for employees while outlining clear responsibilities for employers. In Istanbul’s dynamic business environment, compliance with these regulations is critical.
An employment contract Turkey is the foundation of the employer-employee relationship. Contracts can be written or verbal, but written agreements are mandatory for jobs lasting over a year. Essential components include:
Contracts may include clauses like non-compete contract Turkey, which must be reasonable in scope and duration (typically 1-2 years). Our Istanbul employment lawyer, Enes Nergiz, ensures contracts comply with the Turkish Code of Obligations and protect both parties’ interests.
Istanbul’s status as a global business hub attracts many foreign nationals. Employing foreign nationals employment Turkey requires a work permit Turkey from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. Employers must demonstrate that the job is open to foreigners and no qualified Turkish citizen is available. Additionally, foreign employees need a residence permit work Turkey, typically valid for the duration of the work permit (up to two years, renewable). Kalem Law Office streamlines the employment visa Turkey process, ensuring compliance with all regulations.
Termination of employment Turkey must be based on valid grounds, as outlined in Employment Law 4857. Unjustified terminations entitle employees to severance pay Turkey, calculated based on service duration and the last three months’ average salary. Employees may also claim notice pay or compensation Turkey for unfair dismissal. Conversely, employees can terminate contracts for reasons like unpaid wages or unsafe conditions, potentially claiming compensation. Our Istanbul labor lawyer team provides expert guidance to navigate these processes.
Labor disputes Turkey often arise over issues like unpaid wages, severance pay, or workplace discrimination. Since 2018, mandatory mediation is required before filing a case in labor court Turkey. If mediation fails, parties can proceed to court. Enes Nergiz, with over five years of experience, represents clients in mediation and litigation, ensuring fair resolutions. Our firm’s expertise in Istanbul labor law minimizes risks and expedites dispute resolution.
Workplace safety Turkey is regulated by the Occupational Health and Safety Law (No. 6331). Employers must conduct risk assessments, provide training, and supply protective equipment. Non-compliance can result in fines or legal action. Social security Turkey mandates registration with the Social Security Institution (SGK) for all employees, covering health insurance, pensions, and unemployment benefits. Kalem Law Office ensures clients meet these obligations, avoiding costly penalties.
The minimum wage Turkey is set annually by the government. As of 2025, the monthly minimum wage is approximately 8,506.50 TL (around 450 USD). Wage payment Turkey must occur at least monthly, via cash or bank transfer, with payslips provided. Istanbul’s high cost of living often leads to higher salary negotiations, particularly for skilled roles. Our team advises on compliant wage structures.
Annual paid vacation Turkey is based on service duration:
Vacation cannot be substituted with cash unless agreed otherwise. Employees also have rights to collective bargaining Turkey and right to strike Turkey, protected by the Trade Union Law Turkey. These rights are particularly relevant in Istanbul’s unionized industries, such as manufacturing and logistics.
Istanbul employment law is shaped by the city’s economic diversity and international workforce. The high cost of living drives salary expectations, while the presence of multinational companies increases demand for work permits Turkey. Kalem Law Office Istanbul understands these dynamics, offering tailored solutions for businesses and employees. Whether you’re a local startup or a global corporation, our Istanbul employment lawyer ensures compliance and protects your interests.
Led by Enes Nergiz (Bar No: 6281), Kalem Law Office Istanbul brings over five years of expertise in Turkish labor law. Our services include:
We provide multilingual support in English, German, and Russian, making us a preferred choice for foreign nationals employment Turkey. Our office at Hacet Mahallesi, Adliye Caddesi, Göret Apartman D:13, Kat:3, No:5, Alanya/Antalya extends services to Istanbul clients via consultations and remote support. Contact us at [email protected] or +90 553 417 2313.
The minimum wage Turkey is set annually. In 2025, it’s approximately 8,506.50 TL monthly, subject to adjustments based on economic conditions.
Employers apply for a work permit Turkey through the Ministry of Labor, ensuring compliance with job and qualification criteria. A residence permit work Turkey is also required.
Labor disputes Turkey require mandatory mediation before proceeding to labor court Turkey. Our Istanbul labor lawyer team guides you through both stages.
Ready to ensure compliance with Turkish employment law? Contact Enes Nergiz, your trusted Istanbul labor lawyer, at Kalem Law Office Istanbul. Visit us at Hacet Mahallesi, Adliye Caddesi, Göret Apartman D:13, Kat:3, No:5, Alanya/Antalya, email [email protected], or call +90 553 417 2313. Explore our services for more information.
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