Labor Laws and Salaries in Turkey (2025 Guide)
A complete guide to Turkish labor law: minimum wage, working hours, leave, social insurance and workers' rights in 2025.
A Safe and Orderly Workplace
With its advanced, worker-protective labor laws, Turkey provides a safe and orderly environment for employees and employers. Knowing these rules is essential for everyone who works in the country.
1. 📊 Minimum Wage 2025
| Parameter | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monthly minimum wage | 17,002 TL |
| Hourly minimum wage | 89.25 TL |
| Annual increase | About 50% |
💡 Note: The minimum wage in Turkey is set every year by the "Minimum Wage Commission".
2. ⏰ Working Hours and Overtime
| Item | Rule |
|---|---|
| Weekly working hours | 45 hours |
| Daily working hours | Maximum 11 hours |
| Overtime | 50% on top of regular pay |
| Work on holidays | 100% on top of regular pay |
3. 📅 Leave and Holidays
| Type of leave | Duration |
|---|---|
| Annual paid leave | 14-26 days |
| Sick leave | Up to 6 months |
| Maternity leave | 16 weeks |
| Paternity leave | 5 days |
4. 🏥 Social Insurance (SGK)
| Item | Share deducted from pay |
|---|---|
| Pension insurance | 9% (employee) + 11% (employer) |
| Unemployment insurance | 1% (employee) + 2% (employer) |
| Health insurance | 5% (employee) + 7.5% (employer) |
5. 📝 Employment Contract
Types of contract:
- Permanent contract
- Fixed-term contract
- Part-time contract
- Project-based contract
Essential contents of a contract:
- Details of the parties
- Job description
- Salary and benefits
- Working hours
- Contract duration
6. ⚠️ Dismissal and Termination of Contract
| Type of dismissal | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Dismissal with notice | 2-8 weeks' prior notice |
| Immediate dismissal | Only in special cases |
| Severance pay | 30 days of pay for each year of service |
7. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum annual leave?
Answer: 14 days for employees with less than 5 years of service
Can an employer terminate a contract unilaterally?
Answer: Only with justified reasons and payment of any unpaid wages
How does insurance work for foreigners?
Answer: The same as for Turkish citizens
What is the maximum amount of overtime?
Answer: 270 hours per year
✅ Conclusion: A Fair and Transparent Workplace
With its precise, worker-protective labor laws, Turkey creates a safe and fair environment for everyone who works.