The decision to deport foreign workers in Turkey outlines rules for those without a work permit, 2025 employer penalties, and guidance from TrustUs Consultancy
Decision to Deport Foreign Workers in Turkey | Penalties for Non-Compliant Companies
Due to the significant openness of the Turkish labor market in recent years, and the reception of large waves of refugees from various countries, an informal labor sector has emerged.
This has prompted the Turkish government to tighten its measures to regulate the status of non-compliant workers in Turkey.
In this new article from TrustUs Consultancy in Istanbul, we explain the decision to deport foreign workers in Turkey according to the new law concerning the deportation of non-compliant foreign labor in Turkey, along with the financial and legal consequences faced by employers. Do not miss any detail until the end!
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Decision to Deport Foreign Workers in Turkey | Legal Framework
A new decision was published in the Official Gazette on July 23, 2025 (issue no. 32964), ordering strict measures against non-compliant employers.
This includes the deportation of foreigners in Turkey with their families, if they work without obtaining a valid work permit in Turkey, while holding the employer fully responsible for paying all fines and travel expenses.
It is worth noting that this law will take effect at the beginning of 2026.
What is a Work Permit in Turkey?
A work permit (Çalışma İzni) is an official authorization issued by the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security (Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı), allowing a foreign national to work for a specific employer in Turkey. This permit must be valid and renewed regularly.
Violations and penalties occur when this permit is absent or expired.
It should be noted that Syrian workers holding a temporary protection ID (Kimlik) are eligible to apply for the exemption from work permit for Syrians in Turkey, and therefore are not subject to the decision to deport foreign workers in Turkey if they have obtained this exemption.
New Executive Regulation on Employer Responsibilities
On July 23, 2025, the Turkish Ministries of Labor and Interior issued a new executive regulation detailing the mechanisms for implementing the decision to deport foreign workers in Turkey.
The regulation aims to reduce the evasion of foreign workers from obtaining work permits, in addition to setting out the procedures for employers to pay the costs associated with deporting the non-compliant worker and their family.
Article 7 of the regulation specifies that the employer’s responsibility covers all stages of deportation, including:
- Accommodation costs at deportation centers
- All necessary health-related expenses
- Travel expenses back to the home country
This applies to the non-compliant worker, their spouse, and their children.
According to the regulation, these costs are initially covered by the budget of the Directorate of Migration Management within the Ministry of Interior, and then claimed from the employer under the Law on Collection of Public Receivables (Law No. 6183).
Article 9 states that the regulation will come into effect six months after its publication, that is, starting from January 23, 2026, giving companies a transitional period to comply with the new procedures.
Additional Penalties and Legal Procedures under the Decision to Deport Foreign Workers in Turkey
If the violation is repeated by the employer, the penalty is tightened and doubled, as stipulated in Article 22 of Law No. 5326 and its amendments.
If inspection teams or security forces notify the employer of the violation, an administrative decision is issued by the Ministry of Interior to deport the non-compliant worker.
The worker, or their legal representative, may file an appeal with the competent administrative court within seven days from the date of notification of the deportation decision.
It is important to note that any appeal session must be held within 15 days, and the worker cannot be deported before a final ruling is issued, except in cases of explicit consent.
Tips for Dealing with the Decision to Deport Non-Compliant Foreign Workers in Turkey
1. Review Residency and Work Records for Foreign Workers in Turkey
Employers in Turkey should regularly check the work residence status and work permits of all their foreign employees.
Employing a non-compliant foreign worker exposes the company to substantial financial penalties and other additional obligations.
2. Seek Specialized Consultation on Labor Law Compliance in Turkey
TrustUs Consultancy in Istanbul provides professional services for reviewing work and residence files, and ensuring compliance with the legal employment of foreign workers.
It is advisable to act early to correct any irregularities before they are recorded by law enforcement authorities.
3. Understand the New Labor and Employment Laws in Turkey
Employers must be well-informed about current laws and updates, such as this new regulation which requires employers to bear all deportation expenses related to the non-compliant worker and their family, including accommodation, healthcare, and return travel.
Neglecting to pay the penalties will result in the amounts being collected through the tax procedure under Law No. 6183.
FAQ about the Decision to Deport Foreign Workers in Turkey
Who is covered by the decision to deport foreign workers in Turkey?
The decision covers all foreigners residing in Turkey who are working without an official permit, not just Syrian workers.
Any foreign worker found to be working without a valid work permit in Turkey or a suitable exemption will be subject to these procedures.
Employer responsibilities also extend to the spouse and children (non-Turkish nationals) linked to the non-compliant worker’s ID.
What should I do as an employer in Turkey to avoid penalties for non-compliant foreign workers?
Ensure that the foreign worker has a valid legal work permit. Submit a new work permit application if it does not exist, via the official portal: turkiye.gov.tr.
Renew the permit at least one month before it expires, and review the company’s tax and insurance records to confirm legal compliance.
What is the penalty for an employer in Turkey found to have an unlicensed worker?
In addition to deportation costs, an administrative fine is imposed for each non-compliant worker.
If the violation is repeated, fines are doubled or penalties are increased under the new law.
Work licenses may be suspended, and company officials could face legal prosecution if violations continue.
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What happens if the employer does not pay deportation costs?
The local migration directorate will notify the employer to pay within one month.
If payment is not made, a notice is sent to the tax authority to collect the amount compulsorily under Law No. 6183.
In other words, the expenses are paid by the state budget first, then converted into a debt that the employer must settle.
Can a deportation decision from Turkey be appealed?
Yes. The foreign worker or their legal representative may file an appeal with the competent administrative court within seven days of being notified of the deportation decision.
This legal deadline must be respected, as failure to appeal within it will make the decision final.
Which authority is responsible for enforcing the deportation of non-compliant foreign workers in Turkey?
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security (Çalışma Bakanlığı) oversees the issuance of work permits and ensures companies comply with legal employment standards.
The Directorate of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi Başkanlığı) under the Ministry of Interior executes deportation procedures, manages deportation centers, and collects costs from employers as determined by law and the executive regulation.
Conclusion
Whether you are a Turkish company owner or a foreign employee in Turkey, understanding these regulations is essential to protecting your legal rights.
With its specialized expertise, TrustUs Consultancy is ready to provide legal advice and support in matters of residence, permits, and employment in Turkey, helping you achieve full compliance with the laws of the Ministry of Labor and the Directorate of Migration Management in Turkey.
Do not hesitate to contact us to align your operations and workforce within the legal framework. Get a free consultation now!
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