Understanding the Legal Framework
Employing undocumented foreign workers in Türkiye can result in serious administrative fines and legal consequences. According to the International Labor Force Law No. 6735, both the employer and the foreign national working without a valid work permit may face penalties, including monetary fines and deportation for the employee.
Authorities such as labor inspectors and law enforcement agencies have the right to identify undocumented employment during routine or targeted inspections. Once detected, the case is reported to the Ministry of Labor and the Directorate of Migration Management.
Employer Penalties for Hiring Foreigners Without Work Permits
In 2025, the administrative fine for employing a foreigner without a valid work permit is expected to exceed TRY 35,815 per undocumented employee. This fine is multiplied by the number of unauthorized workers in the workplace. For repeat violations, the fine can double.
Employers also have a legal obligation to notify authorities within 15 days when:
A foreigner begins or leaves employment
A work permit is canceled or expires
Failing to notify the relevant authority results in an additional administrative fine (approximately TRY 2,378).
Beyond fines, employers must also cover deportation costs, including accommodation, travel, and emergency health expenses for the undocumented worker and any dependents.
Penalties Imposed on Foreigners Working Without a Permit
Foreigners working without a valid work permit are fined:
TRY 14,319 if working for an employer
TRY 28,655 if self-employed
TRY 2,378 for failing to report employment status changes
In addition to financial penalties, unauthorized workers are reported to the Ministry of Interior for deportation. They are expected to leave Türkiye within 10 days of notification. If not, forced deportation procedures begin immediately.
For repeat offenses, fines are increased. Self-employed foreigners without permits may also have their businesses shut down.
Exemptions: Who Doesn't Need a Work Permit?
Not all foreign nationals require a work permit to work in Türkiye. Exempt categories include:
Work Permit Exemption Certificate Holders
Granted for specific short-term activities under Article 48 of the Implementation Regulation.Turquoise Card Holders
Granted to highly skilled professionals, allowing indefinite work and residency rights.Blue Card Holders
Former Turkish citizens who renounced citizenship but retain work and residency rights.
Foreign nationals in these categories are not considered undocumented and are not subject to the penalties mentioned above.
Legal Remedies and Appeals
Administrative Fines
Both the employer and the foreign national have the right to appeal fines issued under Law No. 5326 (Misdemeanors Law) by applying to the Criminal Court of Peace within 15 days of official notification.
Deportation Orders
If a foreigner is issued a deportation order due to unauthorized work, they must file a lawsuit for annulment within 7 days at the administrative court located in the province that issued the order. Deportation can be enforced before the 7-day deadline, so urgent legal action is necessary.
Why Legal Support is Essential
The consequences of employing or working as an undocumented foreigner in Türkiye are severe, both legally and financially. Employers may also face reputational harm and business disruption, while foreign nationals risk removal and long-term entry bans.
To navigate this legal landscape, seeking professional legal guidance is critical. At Bayraktar Attorneys, we assist:
Employers in reviewing compliance and obtaining proper work permits
Foreigners in challenging administrative fines and deportation
Businesses in managing labor inspections and legal audits
Final Thoughts
The fight against undocumented employment in Türkiye is actively enforced through strict laws, routine inspections, and substantial penalties. Employers and foreign nationals must be proactive in understanding and complying with Türkiye’s labor regulations.
Avoid fines, protect your business, and ensure legal employment status—consult a trusted immigration and labor attorney to safeguard your rights.
