How to Find a Job in Turkey: A Complete Guide for Locals and Expats
Looking for a Job in Turkey ? This country’s vibrant economy and strategic location make it an attractive destination for professionals from all walks of life. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a seasoned expert, or an expat looking to start a new chapter abroad, understanding how the Turkish job market works is key to landing the right opportunity.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about searching for a job in Turkey—from where to look and how to apply, to understanding work permits and adjusting to the local work culture.
1. Get to Know the Job Market in Turkey
Turkey’s economy is diverse, offering a broad range of opportunities across multiple sectors. Some of the top industries hiring in 2025 include:
- Manufacturing & Industry: Especially strong in automotive, textiles, and electronics.
- Technology & IT: There’s growing demand for software engineers, developers, and tech support professionals.
- Tourism & Hospitality: Booming in cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum.
- Education: English teachers and academic staff are in high demand.
- Finance & Banking: Istanbul continues to lead as the country’s financial hub.
- Healthcare: Medical professionals—doctors, nurses, and specialists—are consistently sought after.
2. Top Job Search Websites in Turkey
Start your search with online job portals. These are widely used by employers and job seekers alike:
- Kariyer.net – One of Turkey’s largest and most well-known job boards.
- Indeed Turkey – A global platform with a dedicated Turkish site.
- Secretcv.com – Popular for white-collar and corporate positions.
- Eleman.net – Ideal for blue-collar and technical roles.
- LinkedIn – Great for professional networking and international roles.
- Glassdoor Turkey – Helpful for checking company reviews and salaries.
3. Finding a Job in Turkey as a Foreigner
If you’re not a Turkish citizen, the process is slightly more complex—but definitely doable with the right steps:
a) Understand Work Permit Requirements
To legally work in Turkey, you’ll need a work permit. Usually, your employer will apply on your behalf through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
b) Target Sectors That Hire Foreign Talent
Jobs for foreigners are often found in:
- Education (especially English teaching)
- Tourism & Hospitality
- Multinational Companies (IT, finance, marketing, etc.)
- NGOs and Embassies
c) Build a Local Network
Networking is crucial. Attend job fairs, connect with recruiters on LinkedIn, and join expat groups and professional communities on platforms like Facebook.
4. Tailoring Your CV and Cover Letter
When applying in Turkey, make sure your documents reflect local expectations:
- Language: Use Turkish for local roles; English is fine for international companies.
- Format: Keep it clean and professional—1 to 2 pages max.
- Include: Personal details, a professional photo, education, experience, and skills.
- Cover Letter: Write a personalized message that shows why you’re the right fit.
5. Submitting Applications
Once your resume is ready, here’s how to apply:
- Use job portals to apply directly
- Send your CV and cover letter to company HR departments
- Follow up with a polite email or LinkedIn message
- Be ready for interviews—some may include assessments or language tests
6. What to Expect in the Interview Process
The interview process in Turkey is fairly similar to most countries. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Dress professionally and arrive on time (punctuality is respected).
- Prepare for questions about your background and skills.
- Show interest in the company and ask thoughtful questions.
- Follow up with a thank-you message to show appreciation.
7. Work Permits and Visas for Foreign Employees
a) Application Process
Typically, your employer will begin the process. Steps include:
- Receiving a formal job offer
- Employer submits application to the Ministry
- Processing takes 4–6 weeks
b) Types of Work Permits
- Temporary Work Permit – Valid for 1 year and renewable
- Indefinite Work Permit – For long-term residents with 8+ years of work
- Independent Work Permit – For freelancers or entrepreneurs
- Turquoise Card – For highly qualified professionals (similar to a permanent residency)
8. Salary Expectations and Cost of Living
The minimum wage in 2024 is 17,002.12 TRY per month. Skilled professionals can expect more, depending on the industry and role.
Estimated Monthly Rent:
- Istanbul: 15,000–40,000 TRY
- Ankara: 10,000–25,000 TRY
- Izmir: 12,000–30,000 TRY
Other living costs—like food and transportation—are relatively affordable compared to Europe or the U.S.
9. Finding Jobs Without Speaking Turkish
While knowing the language definitely helps, it’s not always a deal-breaker:
- Focus on multinational companies where English is the working language
- Tech, tourism, and teaching are more open to non-Turkish speakers
- Learn basic Turkish phrases to improve communication and cultural understanding
10. Exploring Freelance and Remote Work Opportunities
Turkey has become increasingly friendly to digital nomads and remote professionals. Popular fields include:
- Web and App Development
- Digital Marketing and Content Creation
- Graphic Design
- Online Tutoring or Consulting
Foreigners working remotely from Turkey should be aware of visa regulations and local tax rules if staying long-term.
Landing a job in Turkey takes effort, but the opportunities are there—especially for those who take the time to research, network, and adapt to local expectations. Whether you’re new to the workforce, switching careers, or relocating from abroad, Turkey’s growing economy and vibrant culture offer a rewarding professional environment.
Stay proactive, build genuine connections, and don’t hesitate to explore both traditional and remote job options. With the right approach, your next career move in Turkey could be just around the corner.