Last Updated on 15/04/2023
Due to its strategic location and favorable living conditions, Turkey has been the preferred destination for many nationals worldwide. In fact, according to the HSBC Expat report, Turkey ranked 7th best destination for international workers. That’s why 5,4 million foreigners are based in Turkey in September 2021, according to the official Gazette. However, to work legally in Turkey, there are several conditions and requirements that you must fulfill. Find in this article practical advice to find job in Turkey.
Work Conditions for Foreigners in Turkey
Foreigners, willing to find a job in Turkey, can work in Turkey legally in different sectors. International companies offer work opportunities for qualified and multilingual foreigners. These companies are operating in various sectors such as marketing, sales, management, and translation.
However, they have to get a work permit to benefit from all their rights, such as health insurance leave and decent remunerations. For this reason, it is mandatory to get a job offer first. Then the employer or the company, you are about to work with, must apply for the working permit in your name if you are already legally living in Turkey and you have a valid Residence permit for at least 6 months.
However, if you are still abroad, you have to apply first for a work visa in the Turkish consulate or embassy in your country, submitting the necessary documents provided by the employer.
How to find a job in Turkey
Networking
As you are about to relocate to Turkey, you have to try to build certain links and networking with both ex-pats and Turkish people whose academic profile and Professional background match yours. You can do this by attending various events and conferences or even joining business groups and workshops.
This will help you promote your knowledge and skills and be up to date regarding job opportunities.
Platforms for job searching
Kariyer.net: It’s the best and most preferred platform in Turkey for joining companies and individuals. It presents a lot of opportunities in different sectors as the biggest and the most famous companies cooperate with it while looking for candidates to hire.
Indeed: It is an international job search platform offering foreigners different job opportunities in Turkey and many other countries in the world.
LinkedIn: One of the most important Professional platforms joining professionals and companies together and allowing individuals to enlarge their Professional networking.
Expat Guide Turkey: It is a beneficial platform providing advice to ex-pats relocated in Turkey regarding different topics, and it also publishes interesting job ads.
Jobs not allowed for foreigners in Turkey
Foreigners willing to find a job in Turkey, have the right to work legally and get their rights through a work permit. However, some jobs are exclusive for Turkish citizens and prohibited for foreign nationals.
These occupations are the following:
– Medical and paramedical occupations including:
*Dentistry and medicine
*Nursing
*Pharmacy
*Veterinary medicine
*General Directorate of Private health institutions
– Legal and security occupations including:
*Lawyer
*Public prosecutor
*Notary
*Security personnel
– Fish exporting and shipment
– Tourism guide
– Translator
How to find a job in Turkey as a foreigner
Like in any other country, foreigners willing to find a job in Turkey can work in any field of their choice according to their qualifications and academic skills. However, they must have an exceptional background and an attractive resume to get selected among the candidates.
We should also mention that knowing the Turkish language is an advantage and even a must in a specific occupation for those trying to find a job in Turkey.
*MEO consultants can advise you on the best Turkish language institutions. But let’s give you ideas about some easy and practical jobs. Especially if you are a student or you are looking for temporary financial support until you settle down and build your career in Turkey.
Teaching English
Teaching English might be a good option for foreigners willing to find a job in Turkey, especially if they are native speakers. Many famous private schools in Turkey prefer to hire native speakers to ensure good education quality. Turkish parents are demanding in this topic and would like their children to have good English skills, especially the financially-eased ones.
You can also find a job opportunity in the language institutions. Make sure to bring your diplomas and certificates with you.
If you don’t have English certificates but trust your English qualifications, you can still give private lessons to students or professionals wishing to improve their English skills.
– Part-time Jobs
If you are a student and are trying to support yourself financially, you can opt for certain part-time jobs in places such as hotels, travel agencies, bars, and restaurants. However, you should not expect a high salary that you can save or profit from, but at least it will be fair enough to pay your bills and your personal expenses. We should also remind that it is not a path to build a career in Turkey, but it’s a practical start for those who are out of financial resources until they can afford a stable plan.
– Start your own business
- Freelancing
We live in a world where digital tools direct everything, and Turkey is very advanced in this field. This situation provides you the opportunity to work from your place and adjust your own work schedule and rhythm.
You can afford to work as a freelancer in editing, web content creating, digital marketing, or social media management. This option is suitable for people who can’t be productive in strict working hours.
- Set your own company
Thanks to new regulations adjustment relative to foreigners investment in Turkey, it has become easier to set up your own company in Turkey. Besides, the Turkish government is offering encouraging incentives conformity with international standards. First, you have to find a solid and trustworthy law company to start in the right way.
FAQ
Can a foreigner get a job in Turkey?
Within the bounds of international law, foreigners are permitted to work in Turkey. According to international law, there are some limitations on how foreigners can use the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Turkish Constitution.
How to search for a job in Turkey?
To find a job in Turkey there are many methods that can be beneficial such as networking or applying on certain employment platforms mentioned above.
What jobs are in demand in Turkey?
Customer care services, teaching foreign languages, translation, writing and sales operations are among the most demanded jobs in Turkey.
What are the best female jobs in Turkey?
Arts occupation, babysitting, housekeeping, desiging and modeling are among the best female jobs in Turkey.
What are the best jobs in Turkey for english speakers?
Teaching English, translation, editing and copywriting are the best jobs for english speakers in Turkey.
Is Turkey easy to get a job?
Expats who intend to work in Turkey should be aware that it can be difficult to get employment. It’s not impossible, though, as there are some industries where there aren’t enough skilled local workers.
The MEO Consultants team offers you its assistance to put you on the right path to build a strong career and support you all along this journey. Contact us
