Turkish Labor Law
"What are the main employment protections under Turkish Labor Law?"
Quick Answer
Labor Law No. 4857 sets the standard working time at 45 hours per week, regulates overtime, annual paid leave, employment contracts, and termination rules. Occupational health and safety obligations are primarily governed by Law No. 6331, and job security protection applies only in qualifying cases.
Turkish Labor Law Framework
Turkish labor law is primarily regulated by Labor Law No. 4857, together with social security legislation and occupational health and safety rules. It sets employer obligations and employee protections on working time, wages, leave, termination, and workplace compliance.
Key Points to Remember
- Labor Law No. 4857 applies to most employment relationships
- Employment contracts can be for definite or indefinite terms
- Employees have statutory protections, and additional “job security” rights apply only if legal thresholds are met (for example, workplace headcount and seniority)
- Social security contributions are mandatory for both parties
Compliance Requirements
Employers operating in Turkey should align contracts, HR policies, payroll, and termination processes with Labor Law No. 4857. Separate occupational health and safety duties under Law No. 6331 require documented risk assessments, trainings, and other compliance steps depending on workplace risk class.
Foreign companies should be particularly aware of work permit requirements and the specific obligations when employing both Turkish nationals and foreign workers.
Need a Practical Employment Compliance Setup?
If you employ staff in Turkey or plan to hire locally, we can help you draft compliant employment contracts, set HR policies, assess termination and notice risks, and structure work permit and payroll processes for your Turkey operations.
Request an Employment Compliance Review