Turkish labor law regulates employment relationships across all industries, balancing the rights of employees with the obligations of employers. Governed by the Turkish Labor Code No. 4857 and related regulations, the law covers employment contracts, termination procedures, severance pay, working conditions, union rights, and foreign worker regulations. At Istanbul Law Firm, our experienced English speaking lawyers in Turkey provide legal support to both employers and employees in labor disputes, HR compliance, and cross-border employment issues.
Whether you are drafting employment contracts, defending a wrongful dismissal claim, or managing a workplace investigation, we provide strategic, bilingual legal guidance. Recognized as a best lawyer firm in Turkey for employment law, we offer fast and clear counsel in every stage of the employment lifecycle. Related: How to Draft a Legally Valid Employment Contract in Turkey, Handling Labor Disputes Under Turkish Law
Employment Contracts, Types, and Legal Requirements
Under Turkish law, employment contracts can be fixed-term, indefinite-term, part-time, or remote, and may be oral or written—though written contracts are legally recommended for clarity and enforcement. Every contract must specify job role, working hours, wages, location, and other essential terms. Contracts involving foreigners must also comply with work permit regulations. At Istanbul Law Firm, we draft bilingual employment contracts, tailor key clauses for risk mitigation, and ensure full compliance with Labor Code No. 4857 and related secondary legislation.
Our English speaking lawyers in Turkey advise on non-compete clauses, confidentiality obligations, intellectual property rights, and probationary periods. We also assist multinational companies in preparing employee handbooks, onboarding documentation, and internal disciplinary procedures in accordance with Turkish legal standards and sector-specific regulations.
As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for labor law compliance, Istanbul Law Firm ensures that employment agreements not only meet formal requirements but also provide legal protection to avoid future disputes. Related: Essential Legal Clauses in Turkish Employment Agreements, Legal Rules for Employing Foreign Nationals in Turkey
Termination, Notice, and Severance Pay Rules in Turkey
Termination of employment in Turkey must comply with formal notice procedures, legal grounds, and statutory entitlements. Employers must justify dismissals based on valid reasons such as poor performance, redundancy, misconduct, or business necessity. Dismissals without legal justification can result in reinstatement claims or compensation. At Istanbul Law Firm, we guide employers and employees through lawful termination, ensuring correct documentation, notice periods, and severance calculations based on length of service and salary.
Our English speaking lawyers in Turkey assist clients in preparing termination letters, handling resignation and mutual termination protocols, and resolving disputes at the mediation stage or through labor court litigation. We also represent clients in wrongful dismissal cases, where employees may claim compensation equivalent to several months’ salary plus severance and unpaid entitlements.
As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for employment termination law, Istanbul Law Firm ensures that terminations are defensible, fair, and legally compliant—protecting both employer interests and employee rights. Related: Legal Grounds and Procedures for Dismissal in Turkey, How Severance Pay Is Calculated Under Turkish Law
Workplace Disputes, Mediation, and Labor Court Claims
Labor disputes in Turkey are resolved through a structured process that begins with mandatory mediation before escalation to labor courts. Common disputes involve unpaid wages, wrongful termination, harassment, discrimination, overtime, and social security irregularities. At Istanbul Law Firm, we represent both employees and employers in workplace investigations, mediation sessions, and formal labor court proceedings. We ensure procedural correctness, legal argumentation, and evidence collection to support each case.
Our English speaking lawyers in Turkey prepare mediation statements, attend hearings, and negotiate settlement terms to avoid lengthy litigation. If mediation fails, we represent clients in labor courts, filing claims for reinstatement, wage recovery, or damage compensation. We also defend employers against employee lawsuits and assist in developing internal complaint mechanisms and disciplinary procedures that can reduce legal exposure.
As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for labor dispute resolution, Istanbul Law Firm provides strategic advocacy and legal clarity in complex and high-stakes employment conflicts. Related: What to Expect During Labor Mediation in Turkey, How to File or Defend a Labor Lawsuit in Turkish Courts
Social Security, Employee Rights, and Workplace Compliance
Employers in Turkey are legally obligated to register all employees with the Social Security Institution (SGK), pay monthly contributions, and comply with regulations concerning health and safety, annual leave, maternity rights, and working hours. Employees enjoy strong legal protections under the Turkish Labor Code, including minimum wage, holiday pay, rest breaks, and protection against unfair treatment. At Istanbul Law Firm, we advise companies on meeting their compliance obligations while helping workers understand and assert their rights.
Our English speaking lawyers in Turkey provide SGK registration support, review employment records for compliance, and assist in audits or investigations by labor inspectors. We also defend employers in administrative penalty disputes and represent employees in social security claims, including disability, maternity, and workplace injury entitlements.
As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for employment and social compliance, Istanbul Law Firm helps you create a legally sound and ethically responsible workplace environment. Related: Understanding Social Security and Benefits Under Turkish Labor Law, How to Ensure HR and Payroll Compliance in Turkey
Why Istanbul Law Firm Is the Leading Legal Advisor in Turkish Labor Law
From daily HR compliance to high-stakes litigation, Turkish labor law requires clear contracts, lawful processes, and experienced legal guidance. At Istanbul Law Firm, we represent employers, employees, executives, and HR professionals in every aspect of labor law—drafting policies, resolving conflicts, and protecting rights in and out of court.
Our English speaking lawyers in Turkey deliver proactive counsel to international companies, expats, and local businesses alike. Whether you’re terminating a contract, defending against a claim, or updating your employment templates to meet new legal requirements, we offer fast, bilingual, and strategic legal support.
Recognized as a best lawyer firm in Turkey for labor law, Istanbul Law Firm helps clients maintain lawful workplaces and resolve employment disputes with confidence. Related: Recent Changes in Turkish Labor Legislation, How to Minimize Litigation Risk in Turkish Employment Law
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Are employment contracts mandatory in Turkey? – Not legally required in all cases, but written contracts are strongly recommended. We draft bilingual, legally valid agreements.
- What is the legal notice period for termination? – Depends on seniority: 2 to 8 weeks for indefinite-term contracts. We ensure correct notice and compensation application.
- Can employers terminate employees without cause? – Only in specific situations. Unlawful terminations may lead to reinstatement or compensation. We evaluate your legal position.
- Is severance pay mandatory in Turkey? – Yes, after one year of employment. We calculate severance and handle disputes over entitlement or payment.
- What is the maximum working time per week? – 45 hours. Overtime is compensated with extra pay or time off. We advise on compliance with labor regulations.
- Can foreign nationals be employed in Turkey? – Yes, with valid work permits. We support employers and expats in navigating Turkish labor and immigration law.
- What happens if labor mediation fails? – The dispute may proceed to labor court. We represent clients through mediation and litigation stages.
- Is remote work legally recognized in Turkey? – Yes. Employers must formalize remote work through contracts. We draft remote work agreements and data protection clauses.
- Are annual leave entitlements mandatory? – Yes. Based on seniority: 14–26 days minimum. We advise on tracking and disputes regarding leave rights.
- What are the penalties for non-registered employment? – Fines, backdated premiums, and criminal charges. We help employers regularize and respond to SGK audits.
- Can employees sue for emotional distress? – In serious harassment or mobbing cases, yes. We file and defend such claims in civil and labor courts.
- Who is the best labor law firm in Turkey? – Istanbul Law Firm—a best lawyer firm in Turkey—offering expert legal support to employers and employees alike.
Contact Our Turkish Labor Law Experts
Whether you're drafting a contract, resolving a workplace dispute, or navigating employment termination, Istanbul Law Firm delivers fast, strategic, and professional legal guidance. Our English speaking lawyers in Turkey support both employers and employees in all areas of Turkish labor law. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for employment law, we protect your rights, ensure legal compliance, and resolve disputes efficiently. Contact us today for expert labor law advice.
