Turkey has introduced new regulations to address labor shortages by offering work permit exemptions to skilled foreign workers, including Indian professionals. The new rules, published in Turkey’s Official Gazette, include a three-year exemption for select foreign workers, such as refugees, journalists, athletes, and skilled professionals. These changes are part of Turkey’s efforts to attract global talent and stimulate its economy.
The exemptions allow eligible individuals to work in Turkey without needing a traditional work permit, providing greater flexibility. Refugees and individuals under temporary protection can also benefit from these exemptions, which extend up to three years, an improvement over the previous six-month limit. The Turkish Interior Ministry will manage the application and monitoring process.
Foreign journalists with permanent press cards, approved by Turkey’s Presidential Directorate of Communications, are exempt from work permits throughout their stay. Similarly, professional athletes, coaches, and sports-related staff with valid contracts from Turkish clubs can now work without permits.
Turkey has also simplified the application process, allowing foreign nationals to apply at any point during their legal stay, reducing the frequency of renewals and supporting skilled workers in contributing to Turkey’s industries.
Additionally, Turkey has launched a Tech Visa Program to attract tech professionals and entrepreneurs. This program provides a fast-track, three-year work permit and aims to boost Turkey’s tech sector by encouraging the growth of 100,000 startups by 2030, with the goal of developing 100 unicorns.
Turkey is positioning itself as an attractive destination for skilled professionals amid tighter immigration policies in countries like Canada, New Zealand, and the U.S. However, those considering Turkey should evaluate the country’s higher cost of living. Data from Numbeo indicates that Turkey’s living expenses are 76% higher than India’s, and rent is 139.4% more expensive, making it essential for potential migrants to balance the advantages of working in Turkey with financial planning.
