In the intricate landscape of employment, understanding the provisions for various types of leave is vital for both employers and employees in Turkey.
The Labor Law in Turkey meticulously outlines entitlements for maternity leave, paternity leave, marriage leave, bereavement leave, and job search leave, ensuring a harmonious balance between work and personal life.
Maternity Leave in Turkey
Pregnant women in Turkey are entitled to a comprehensive maternity leave of 16 weeks, intelligently divided into eight weeks before and eight weeks after childbirth. In the case of multiple pregnancies, such as twins or more, the leave period is extended to 18 weeks. A unique flexibility allows pregnant women to work up to three weeks before childbirth, with the remaining leave added post-birth, provided the health of both mother and baby permits.
Post the paid leave period, working mothers can request an additional six months of unpaid leave without affecting their vacation pay. During pregnancy, women are granted time off for medical examinations, and after childbirth, they can request breaks amounting to 1 hour and 30 minutes per day for breastfeeding until the baby turns one.
To qualify for maternity leave, employees need an official medical report specifying the expected date of birth. This report also serves as a requirement for the allowance paid during maternity leave, and employers can guide employees on the relevant social security institution affiliation.
Paternity Leave in Turkey
Fathers in Turkey enjoy the right to parental leave, extending up to three days. This provision recognizes the importance of fathers’ involvement during the early days of parenthood.
Marriage Leave in Turkey
Article 46 (b) of the Turkish Labor Law entitles employees to three days of paid leave in celebration of their marriage. This provision reflects the significance of supporting employees during personal milestones.
Bereavement Leave
In times of loss, employees in Turkey are granted three days of paid leave according to Article 46 (b) of the Labor Law. This compassionate provision extends to the death of immediate family members, including parents, spouses, siblings, and children.
Job Search Leave
Article 27 of the Turkish Labor Law acknowledges the transitional phase of job searching by granting employees the right to use at least two hours of rest during working hours for this purpose. These job search hours may be combined and used simultaneously. If employees work during these hours, employers are obligated to compensate with double pay in addition to the regular salary.
Turkey’s labor laws emphasize the importance of striking a balance between professional commitments and personal life events. The provisions for various types of leave, including maternity, paternity, marriage, bereavement, and job search, aim to create a supportive and accommodating work environment. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, both employers and employees contribute to fostering a workplace that respects the diverse needs and experiences of its workforce.
San Global is well-equipped to assist you with your Employer of Record (EOR) and payroll requirements (also known as the Umbrella Company) in Turkey. We are capable of handling your HR (Recruitment) needs, even in the absence of a legal entity in Turkey.