Türkiye has introduced important changes to its work permit rules in 2025. These updates are designed to make the process more structured while encouraging qualified talent in sectors the country wants to grow. At the same time, some requirements have become stricter, especially for employers who want to hire foreign staff.

Higher Standards for Employers

From January 1, 2025, companies applying to hire foreign workers must now meet at least one of the following conditions:

1. Paid-in capital of at least ₺500,000
2. Annual net sales of at least ₺8 million
3. Export turnover of at least 150,000 US dollars

These figures are higher than before and mean that smaller businesses will need to check carefully whether they qualify. The well-known “five Turkish employees for every one foreign employee” rule still applies, although some exemptions have been expanded.

New Minimum Salary Requirements

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of role-based minimum salaries for foreign workers. The law now links salaries to multiples of the official minimum wage, which in 2025 is ₺26,005.50 gross per month.

Here are the new minimums:

1. Senior executives and pilots: at least 5 times the minimum wage (₺130,027.50)
2. Engineers, architects, branch managers: at least 4 times the minimum wage (₺104,022)
3. Other managers: at least 3 times the minimum wage (₺78,016.50)
4. Skilled/expert roles: at least 2 times the minimum wage (₺52,011)
5. Domestic or non-specialized roles: at least the minimum wage (₺26,005.50)

These figures are designed to ensure that foreign workers are brought in for positions that require specific expertise and to prevent wage undercutting.

Expanded Exemptions

While the rules are tighter in some areas, the government has also widened the list of situations where employers and workers can skip certain requirements. Examples include:

1. Large companies with annual sales over ₺50 million, which can employ up to five foreigners without the 5:1 ratio
2. IT companies and R&D centers, which may be exempt from the ratio altogether for technical roles
3. Foreigners married to Turkish citizens, long-term residents, and those of Turkish origin
4. Certain healthcare professionals and other high-demand specialists

Longer Permit-Free Work for Certain Professionals

Some foreign professionals can now work in Türkiye without a standard work permit for up to three years, an increase from the previous six-month limit. This applies to certain categories such as scientists, technologists, athletes, and journalists who meet set criteria.

More Flexible Application Timing

Previously, those applying for a work permit exemption had to do so within 30 days of entering Türkiye. In 2025, this rule has been relaxed. Eligible foreigners can now apply at any point during their legal stay.

Why This Matters

The new criteria aim to attract highly skilled workers while encouraging employers to invest in local staff. For companies, the message is clear: plan ahead, understand the requirements, and budget for the new salary levels. For foreign professionals, the changes mean more opportunities in certain sectors but also higher entry standards.