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Turkey

Employment Guide & Cultural Intelligence

Overview

Capital Ankara
Currency TRY
Language Turkish
Time Zone UTC+3 (TRT)
GDP per Capita $10,670
Work Week 45 hours

Employment Basics

Standard Work Week 45 hours
Notice Period 2 to 8 weeks based on tenure
Probation Period 4 months
Overtime Rules 50% premium; max 270 hours/year
Termination Rules Severance of 30 days pay per year (after 1 year); valid reason needed for 30+ employee firms
Minimum Wage TRY 20,002/month (adjusted semi-annually)

Statutory Benefits

14
Annual Leave Days
14
Public Holidays
28
Total Paid Days Off
Parental Leave 16 weeks maternity, 5 days paternity
Sick Leave Covered by SSI from day 3; two-thirds of daily wage

Employer Cost Summary

22%
Employer Tax/Contribution Rate
Mandatory Insurance SSI (social security) ~22.5% employer share
Retirement/Pension SSI pension system
Healthcare Universal health insurance through SSI

Cultural Intelligence

Communication Style

Hospitable, relationship-oriented, indirect in disagreement

Hierarchy

Hierarchical; respect for seniority and authority

Meeting Norms

Tea/coffee offered; relationship before business; flexible timing

Negotiation Approach

Relationship-first, patient, face-saving important

Gift Giving

Turkish delight, quality items; hospitality central to culture

Taboos

Avoid sensitive political topics; respect Islamic customs

Hiring Tips

1 Turkey bridges European and Asian business cultures
2 Severance pay is uncapped and a significant termination cost
3 Minimum wage is adjusted frequently due to inflation
4 Work permits for foreigners require specific ratios to local employees
5 Young, large workforce with strong educational institutions
Quick Facts
  • Work Week 45 hrs
  • Annual Leave 14 days
  • Public Holidays 14
  • Employer Burden 22%
  • Probation 4 months
  • Currency TRY
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