Turkey has unveiled a fresh set of regulations to address its growing labour shortages, with a focus on attracting skilled foreign workers.
The new rules, published in the Official Gazette, provide temporary work permit exemptions for up to three years, offering advantages to foreign workers contributing to Turkey’s economy.
The Turkish Ministry of Labour and Social Security announced that these regulations have officially come into effect.
Key Beneficiaries of the Exemptions
Several categories of foreign workers are set to benefit from these new exemptions. Refugees and individuals under temporary protection can now work in Turkey without the need for a permit, within specified timeframes.
Skilled foreign workers who contribute to the nation‘s economy, culture, or technology will also benefit, receiving work permit exemptions for up to three years, a significant extension from the previous six-month limit.
The Interior Ministry will oversee the duration of exemptions for individuals registered under the Foreign Application, Evaluation, and Monitoring System, determining the appropriate timeframes on a case-by-case basis.
Impact on Journalists and Athletes
Foreign journalists with permanent press cards who have received approval from Turkey’s Presidential Directorate of Communications will also be exempt from applying for work permits during their stay in the country. Additionally, professional athletes, coaches, and other sports personnel with valid contracts from Turkish sports clubs will no longer need to seek work permits, easing the process for sports professionals.
Simplified Application Process to migrate to Turkey
This increased flexibility is designed to ensure that skilled foreign workers can continue contributing to Turkey’s economy without the hassle of frequently renewing permits. “We have made it easier for those already here to continue working without interruptions, benefiting both the workers and the sectors in need of their skills,” said a government official.
Tech Visa and Turkey’s Tech Ambitions
Alongside these changes, Turkey has launched a Tech Visa Programme aimed at attracting entrepreneurs and technology professionals. The programme offers a three-year work permit under an expedited procedure, supporting Turkey’s growing ambitions in the tech sector
“We want to see 100,000 tech-driven start-ups by 2030, with at least 100 of them valued at over $1 billion,” announced Turkey’s Minister of Industry and Technology, Mehmet Fatih Kacır. The country is also developing Terminal Istanbul, set to become the world’s largest technopark, solidifying Turkey’s standing as a major player in the global tech industry.
Minister of Labour and Social Security, Vedat Işıkhan, emphasised that these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to attract and retain foreign talent. “This is a win-win for us. We bring in expertise and simultaneously grow our workforce by learning from the best in the field,” Işıkhan stated.
The cost for work and long-term residence permits in Turkey is currently set at 7,345 Turkish Lira (Rs 18,058) annually. While details on the Tech Visa’s fee structure are still being finalised, it is expected to follow a similar pricing model.
These changes mark a significant step in Turkey’s efforts to address labour shortages while positioning itself as a destination for global talent, particularly in the tech sector
