Turkey has implemented a number of new regulations to increase flexibility for foreign skilled workers, including Indians. These changes include a three year work permit exemption as well as an accelerated Tech Visa Program. They are intended to attract global talent while boosting Turkey’s economy.
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Turkey’s Work Permit Exemptions: A New Opportunity for Skilled Workers
The Turkish government announced new rules to address labor shortages, making it easier for professionals from abroad to work in Turkey. The Official Gazette of Turkey published these changes, which outline temporary work permit exemptions up to three year. The goal is to make Turkey more attractive for skilled workers around the globe, especially in sectors that are driving the economy.
Who Can Benefit from Work Permit Exemptions in Turkey?
The new Turkish work permit exemptions are available to many foreign workers. Following groups are now able to work in Turkey without the need for a traditional permit:
- Refugees
- Skilled professionals
- Journalists
- Athletes
These exemptions are more flexible than standard work permits and can last for up to three year. You may be eligible to apply for a work permit in Turkey without having to go through the normal work permit process if you fall into one of these categories.
Categories of Workers Benefiting from Exemptions
1. Refugees, Individuals under Temporary Protective Status
The updated regulations in Turkey make it easier for those who are under temporary protection and refugees to work for a specific period without needing a permit. These individuals can now contribute to the Turkish economy without having to deal with bureaucratic obstacles.
2. Skilled Workers from Abroad
Exemptions for work permits can be extended to professionals who contribute to Turkey’s cultural, technological, economic or social sectors. The maximum duration of the work permit has now been extended to three years from six months, allowing for greater job security.
The Turkish Interior Ministry manages the Foreign Application, Evaluation, and Monitor System, which determines the duration of each worker’s exemption.
Special Privileges for Journalists and Athletes
The new rules will grant special privileges to certain foreign professionals such as journalists, athletes and other sportspeople.
- Journalists. Foreign journalists with permanent press cards approved by the Turkish Presidential Directorate of Communications are exempted from having to apply for a work permit. This exemption is valid for the duration of their stay.
- Athletes : Professional athletes, coaches and other sports related personnel who have valid contracts with Turkish sports clubs no longer require work permits. This change simplifies employment for those in the Turkish sports sector.
Simplified Work Permit Exemption Application Process
The Turkish government has simplified the process of applying for exemptions from work permits, making it easier for foreigners. Prior to this, foreign workers only had 30 days from the date of arrival to submit a request for a work visa. They can now submit their applications anytime during their legal stay.
Benefits of the new process
- Flexible Application Window: Workers may apply for exemptions anytime during their legal stay.
- No need to renew frequently: Regular renewals of work permits are no longer required, which reduces bureaucratic burdens.
- Supports workers and industries These changes allow skilled workers to concentrate on their role and contribute to sectors that need specialized talent.
Turkey’s Ambitious Tech Visa Program
The Tech visa Program was launched by Turkey to attract entrepreneurs and tech professionals. This program provides a three-year permit via an accelerated procedure, making it easier for tech talent to settle in Turkey.
Turkey’s aim is to cultivate 100,000 technology-driven start ups by 2030 with at least one hundred of them achieving a valuation over $1 billion. Terminal Istanbul is also expected to strengthen Turkey’s position within the global tech sector.
Is Turkey a New Destination for Skilled Workers?
Turkey has become a popular destination for professionals with tighter immigration policies in other countries such as Canada, New Zealand and the United States. Combining work permit exemptions with the Tech Visa Program makes Turkey an attractive option for professionals who want to contribute to a growing economic environment.
However, workers considering moving to Turkey should take into account the cost of living in Turkey. According to numbeo
- The monthly expenditures of a family of four (excluding rent) are approximately Rs183210.
- The average monthly expenditure of a single person is around Rs50 616.
- Rents in Turkey are 139.4% more expensive than those in India. The cost of living in Turkey is also 76% higher.
- The minimum wage is about Rs41,891 a month.
The higher cost of living in Turkey is a concern for skilled workers, particularly those from India.
Conclusion: Weighing the Opportunities and Costs
The new Tech Visa Program and exemptions from work permits in Turkey offer opportunities to skilled foreign workers. Professionals in many sectors could benefit from the country’s efforts at attracting global talent. Potential migrants should carefully consider the higher cost-of-living in Turkey to make sure that their financial goals are aligned with working in Turkey.
For more information on Turkey’s work permit exemptions and application processes, visit the official site: https://www.turkey.gov.tr
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