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Writer's pictureÖzgür Kurucuk

Key Updates to Turkey's International Labor Force Law: What Foreign Workers Need to Know

Key updates to Turkey's International Labor Force Law offer new exemptions for foreign workers. Learn how these changes affect work permits and visas

On October 15, 2024, Turkey enacted important changes to its International Labor Force Law, as published in the Official Gazette (issue no. 32693). These amendments, effective immediately, impact work permit exemptions, application timelines, and conditions for foreign professionals entering Turkey for short- and long-term stays. For those seeking clarity on these updates, lawyers in Turkey and legal professionals specializing in Turkish labor laws can offer essential guidance. Below, we break down the key amendments and how they affect foreign workers, Turkish companies, and international employers.


Understanding Turkey's International Labor Force Law Amendments

The International Labor Force Law in Turkey sets the framework for hiring foreign nationals and managing work permit requirements. With the recent regulatory changes, Turkey aims to streamline processes and extend flexibility in several areas. Here’s an overview of the amendments:


Extended Work Permit Exemptions for Certain Foreign Professionals

One of the major changes is in Article 48(h), which previously granted a six-month work permit exemption to foreign nationals who could make significant contributions in fields like technology, socio-cultural activities, and education. Now, this exemption period has been extended to three years, providing a much longer timeframe for qualified individuals. This modification is particularly advantageous for foreigners looking to bring their expertise to Turkey in a more sustainable and impactful way.


For foreign professionals and international employers, consulting a lawyer in Turkey who is well-versed in the International Labor Force Law can be helpful in navigating the eligibility criteria for this exemption.


Changes in Visa Requirements for Foreign Sports Professionals

Article 48(k), which pertains to foreign professional athletes and related sports personnel, has also been amended. Previously, foreign sports professionals needed an annotated sports visa to qualify for work permit exemption. The new regulation no longer requires this visa type, simplifying the process for athletes, coaches, and support staff wishing to work in Turkey.


To fully understand how these adjustments may affect contracts with Turkish sports clubs and associations, seeking advice from an Istanbul lawyer with experience in labor law in Turkey is advisable.


New Categories Added to the International Labor Force Law

Two new subcategories have been added to Article 48, further expanding the scope of exemptions under the International Labor Force Law:


  1. Subparagraph (ş) includes individuals covered by specific provisions of Turkey’s Law No. 6458, who will receive work permit exemptions as specified in official notifications.

  2. Subparagraph (t) allows foreign journalists with a permanent press card, granted with approval from the Presidential Communications Directorate, to work without a permit during their tenure in Turkey.


These changes support diverse professional needs and add flexibility for expatriates in specialized roles. For journalists and media professionals, consulting a Turkish lawyer with experience in labor and media law can clarify the exact requirements.


Revised Application Deadlines for Work Permit Exemptions

In a significant change to Article 49, the previous deadline for domestic work permit exemption applications—set at 30 days from entry—has been eliminated. Foreign nationals now have the flexibility to apply for exemption at any time during their legal stay in Turkey, provided they remain within the terms of their visa. This amendment simplifies the timeline for individuals seeking work permit exemptions and reduces the pressure of immediate compliance upon entry.


Additional Clarifications in Work Permit Exemption Rules

Article 53 has also seen modifications. Notably, foreigners who qualify for exemptions under specific provisions must now adhere to a “calendar year” as the basis for application timelines. Two new clauses have also been introduced:


  1. Clause (6) allows individuals under subparagraph (ş) to be exempt from specific application articles and only requires a work permit exemption form.

  2. Clause (7) mandates that procedures for the sixth clause will be jointly determined by the Ministry of Labor and Ministry of Interior.


By establishing clear guidelines for different exemption types, the amended International Labor Force Law helps prevent potential delays or misunderstandings in the application process.


Secure Your Future in Turkey with Expert Guidance from Kurucuk & Associates!

Navigating Turkey's updated International Labor Force Law? Trust Kurucuk & Associates, a leading labor law firm in Turkey. Our experienced labor lawyers in Turkey provide the legal insight and support you need to understand work permit exemptions, visa rules, and more. Contact our Istanbul office today to get started on your journey with confidence!

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