Navigating labor law in Turkey can be a complex task for both employers and employees. As labor regulations evolve and the working environment becomes more dynamic—especially with the rise of remote work, digital platforms, and cross-border employment—it is crucial to understand the key principles and legal obligations under Turkish labor law.
Whether you are an HR manager, business owner, employer or employee, having clear guidance on labor law issues can help prevent disputes, protect rights, and ensure workplace compliance in Turkey.
This comprehensive article will help guide both employers and employees through the essential aspects of labor law in Turkey as of 2025.
1. The Legal Framework of Labor Law in Turkey
Labor relations in Turkey are primarily governed by:
- Labor Law No. 4857
- Social Security and General Health Insurance Law No. 5510
- Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331
- Trade Union Law No. 6356
- Code of Obligations (for employment not covered under Labor Law)
These laws regulate employment contracts, working conditions, termination rights, wages, benefits, unionization, and occupational health and safety.
2. Employment Contracts in Turkey
A written employment contract is strongly recommended, although verbal contracts are also legally valid for indefinite-term employment. However, written contracts are mandatory in cases such as:
- Fixed-term employment
- Part-time or remote work
- Temporary and project-based contracts
Key elements to include in an employment contract:
- Job title and duties
- Working hours
- Gross salary and benefits
- Start date and duration
- Termination conditions
For legal compliance and clarity, it is advisable to have contracts prepared or reviewed by legal experts.
3. Working Hours and Overtime
The maximum legal working time in Turkey is 45 hours per week, usually distributed over 5 or 6 days. Overtime is permitted under certain conditions:
- Overtime pay: 1.5x the hourly wage
- Maximum overtime: 270 hours per year
- Compensatory time off may be granted instead of overtime pay with mutual agreement
Employees have the right to breaks, weekend rest, and paid annual leave depending on their seniority.
4. Termination of Employment and Severance Pay
Terminating an employment contract in Turkey must follow proper legal procedures. The termination can be:
a) By Employer (with or without cause):
- Requires notice period or notice pay (2 to 8 weeks depending on seniority)
- If termination is without valid reason, the employee may sue for reinstatement or compensation
b) By Employee:
- Employees can resign at any time but must respect notice periods unless justified by misconduct
c) Severance Pay:
- Employees with at least one year of service are entitled to severance pay if terminated (excluding resignation)
- Calculated as 30 days’ gross salary per year of service, subject to a ceiling set annually
Proper documentation and legal consultation during termination can prevent litigation and protect both parties.
5. Employee Rights and Protections
Turkish labor law provides robust protection to employees, including:
- Equal treatment: No discrimination based on gender, religion, or political opinion
- Maternity and paternity leave
- Unpaid leave for military service, education, or maternity
- Right to unionize and collective bargaining
- Protection from unfair dismissal
In 2025, remote workers are also protected by new regulations that define digital work hours, the right to disconnect, and reimbursement of remote work expenses.
6. Employer Obligations and Compliance in labor law in Turkey
Employers in Turkey must comply with a broad range of obligations to ensure a lawful and fair workplace:
- Registering employees with Social Security Institution (SGK) before employment begins
- Timely payment of salaries, social security contributions, and taxes
- Issuing payslips and keeping employment records
- Occupational health and safety compliance (especially in industrial sectors)
- Data protection under Turkey’s KVKK (similar to GDPR)
Failure to comply with labor laws can result in administrative fines, penalties, or legal claims from employees.
7. Social Security and Benefits
Social security contributions are mandatory in Turkey and cover:
- Retirement pension
- Health insurance
- Unemployment insurance
- Workplace accident coverage
Contributions are shared between employer and employee. Employers pay approximately 22.5%-25% of the gross salary, while employees pay about 14%.
Foreign employees must also be registered with SGK unless they are exempt under bilateral agreements.
8. Common Labor Law Disputes
Typical labor law-related disputes in Turkey include:
- Unfair dismissal claims
- Unpaid overtime or bonuses
- Severance and notice pay disputes
- Discrimination or harassment cases
- Work injury compensation claims
Before filing a lawsuit, employees must first apply for mandatory mediation, a process introduced to reduce court congestion and promote settlements.
If mediation fails, the parties may proceed to Labor Courts, where decisions are generally fast but require thorough documentation.
9. Best Practices for Employers
To ensure smooth labor relations and legal compliance, employers in Turkey should:
- Maintain clear and detailed employment contracts
- Provide proper onboarding and training
- Document all employment changes (promotions, salary revisions, warnings)
- Implement an internal complaint and dispute resolution mechanism
- Stay updated on legal changes (e.g., minimum wage, working hours, digital labor rules)
Proactive HR policies and legal audits can prevent many legal risks.
10. Resources for Employees
Employees in Turkey can seek legal support or information from:
- Labor and Employment Agencies
- Unions and professional chambers
- Bar Associations’ legal aid departments
- Ombudsman Office (Kamu Denetçiliği Kurumu) for public employees
Understanding one’s rights under labor law empowers employees to act appropriately in cases of violation or mistreatment.
Labor law in Turkey aims to balance the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees. As the workplace becomes more complex—with remote work, cross-border hiring, and evolving job structures—guidance on labor law issues is more important than ever.
Companies that stay compliant and adopt a transparent, people-first approach not only avoid legal risks but also foster trust, productivity, and long-term success.
Need Help with Labor Law in Turkey?
We help companies and employees navigate Turkish labor law with clarity and confidence. Whether you need HR policy support, contract drafting, compliance audits, or legal advice on disputes, our experts are here to assist.
Contact us today to ensure your workplace is legally compliant and employee-friendly.