Turkey is an increasingly attractive destination for international professionals and global businesses alike. With its dynamic economy, rich culture, and strategic position between Europe and Asia, the country offers exciting career and business opportunities. For many expatriates, one of the easiest and most compliant ways to work in Turkey is through an Employer of Record (EOR).
In this comprehensive guide, we explore what it means to work in Turkey through an EOR, how it benefits expatriates, and what you should know about visas, taxation, social security, labor law, and life as a foreign worker in Turkey.
What Is an EOR (Employer of Record)?
An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party organization that legally employs workers on behalf of another company, handling all employment formalities, payroll, taxes, benefits, and legal compliance.
If you’re an expatriate being hired by a foreign company to work in Turkey, the company can partner with an EOR based in Turkey. The EOR becomes your legal employer under Turkish law, while you work directly with the client company on daily tasks and business objectives.
Why Expatriates Use EOR Services in Turkey
1. Legal Employment Without Local Incorporation
Foreign companies can legally hire you in Turkey without setting up a subsidiary or branch, thanks to the EOR. This is ideal for:
- Remote international teams
- Short-term assignments
- Pilot projects or market testing
2. Work Permit and Residency Handling
The EOR applies for your work permit and residence permit, acting as your official employer. This streamlines the immigration process.
3. Payroll, Tax, and Social Security Compliance
The EOR manages your monthly salary payments, ensures accurate tax withholding, and registers you with the Social Security Institution (SGK)—providing access to Turkey’s healthcare and retirement systems.
4. Employee Protections Under Turkish Labor Law
You benefit from all statutory rights and protections under Turkish labor law, such as paid leave, termination protections, maternity/paternity leave, and severance pay.
Step-by-Step: How Expatriates Work in Turkey Through an EOR
Step 1: Job Offer from a Foreign Company
You receive a job offer from a foreign company that wishes to employ you in Turkey but does not have a legal entity there.
Step 2: Engagement with an EOR
The company partners with a Turkish EOR, which will:
- Draft your employment contract in line with local laws
- Act as your legal employer
- Handle onboarding and registrations
Step 3: Work Permit Application
The EOR:
- Applies for your work permit via Turkey’s Ministry of Labor and Social Security
- Coordinates with consulates (if needed)
- Supports you through the visa and residence permit process
Step 4: Payroll and Employment
Once approved:
- You are legally employed in Turkey by the EOR
- You receive your monthly salary (in Turkish Lira or foreign currency depending on setup)
- Your income tax and social contributions are deducted and filed by the EOR
- You enjoy full legal protections and benefits
Work Permits and Visas for Expatriates in Turkey
Who Needs a Work Permit?
All non-Turkish citizens must obtain a work permit before legally working in Turkey. Exceptions include certain diplomatic or short-term roles.
Types of Work Permits
- Short-Term Work Permit: Issued for up to 1 year initially
- Extension Permits: Valid for 2-3 years, based on role and employer
- Independent Work Permit: For freelancers/entrepreneurs with 5+ years in Turkey
- Turquoise Card: Special permit for highly skilled foreign professionals
EOR Role in Permits
The EOR:
- Submits the application on your behalf
- Prepares necessary employment and corporate documentation
- Coordinates with the Ministry of Labor and Immigration Office
Residence Permit
Upon obtaining a work permit, you must apply for a residence permit, which allows you to legally live in Turkey during your employment.
Payroll, Income Tax, and Social Security for Expats
Income Tax
As an employee in Turkey, you are subject to progressive income tax rates:
| Annual Income (TRY) | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to 110,000 | 15% |
| 110,001–230,000 | 20% |
| 230,001–580,000 | 27% |
| 580,001–3,000,000 | 35% |
| Over 3,000,000 | 40% |
The EOR deducts this from your gross salary and files monthly reports with the Turkish Revenue Administration.
Social Security (SGK)
You will be automatically registered with the Social Security Institution (SGK), covering:
- Health insurance (public hospitals)
- Retirement pensions
- Maternity and sick leave
- Work injury insurance
Contribution Breakdown:
| Party | Contribution % of Gross Salary |
|---|---|
| Employer | ~20.5% |
| Employee | 14% |
This is managed entirely by the EOR.
Benefits and Rights for Expats Working via EOR in Turkey
✅ Paid Annual Leave
Minimum 14–26 working days per year, depending on seniority.
✅ National Public Holidays
Paid leave during official Turkish holidays, including:
- Republic Day
- New Year’s Day
- Religious festivals (Ramadan and Eid al-Adha)
✅ Sick Leave
Covered by SGK with a doctor’s report. You receive a portion of your salary during illness.
✅ Maternity & Paternity Leave
- Maternity: 16 weeks (paid by SGK)
- Paternity: 5 days paid
✅ Severance Pay
If your contract is terminated without fault after at least one year, you are entitled to severance compensation equal to one month’s gross salary per year of service.
✅ Private Health Insurance (Optional)
Some EORs offer access to private insurance plans to complement SGK coverage.
Living in Turkey as an Expat Employee
Cost of Living
Compared to many European countries, Turkey offers a more affordable lifestyle, especially in cities like Ankara, Izmir, or Antalya. Istanbul is more expensive but offers abundant job and networking opportunities.
Language
While business is often conducted in English in multinational environments, knowing basic Turkish helps in daily life and cultural integration.
Banking and Tax ID
Your EOR will assist in opening a Turkish bank account and obtaining a tax identification number, both required for salary payments and legal compliance.
Housing and Lifestyle
Many EORs support expats with:
- Relocation services
- Temporary housing advice
- Local orientation
Why Choose an EOR as an Expat in Turkey?
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Legal Work Status | Work and live in Turkey with valid permits |
| Smooth Payroll | Reliable monthly payments and tax compliance |
| Employee Protections | Access to full benefits under Turkish labor law |
| No Bureaucracy | The EOR handles all paperwork and compliance |
| Peace of Mind | You can focus on your job, not immigration or tax filings |
Working in Turkey through an Employer of Record is a smart, compliant, and convenient option for expatriates. Whether you’re relocating to Istanbul for a global tech company or supporting a multinational team remotely, an EOR ensures you are legally employed, paid correctly, and protected under Turkish labor law.
We specialize in supporting expatriates and international companies with reliable, compliant, and professional EOR services in Turkey.
Interested in working in Turkey through an EOR?
📞 Contact us today to learn how we can support your career and ensure a smooth transition to working legally and confidently in Turkey.