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Are you interested in hiring employees in Turkey but feeling intimidated by all the legal requirements? Instead of registering a new legal entity with the Turkish Trade Registry (Ticaret Sicili) and the Turkish Revenue Administration (Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı), I recommend using an Employer of Record (EOR) service in Turkey to manage all the employment regulations on your behalf. 

A Turkish EOR service can help you legally hire, manage, and pay employees based in Turkey with ease. This way, you can access Turkish talent without having to open a legal entity abroad. Your EOR employees will have local support, and your operations will stay in compliance with the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı) and other Turkish legal bodies at all times. Sounds perfect, right? However, which Turkish EOR service is the best fit for your needs?

To help you narrow down your options, I’ve compiled my research into this list of the best Employer of Record services for hiring in Turkey. Keep reading to learn more about how an EOR service can support your business expansion into Turkey.

Market Details for Hiring in Turkey

  • Capital City: Ankara
  • Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
  • Payroll Frequency: Monthly
  • Official Language: Turkish
  • Approx. Population: 85.3 Million
  • Public Holidays: 9 holidays spread over 15.5 days 

Why Hire Employees in Turkey?

Turkey is strategically located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it a prime location for companies looking to tap into a diverse talent pool. The country has a strong educational system that produces skilled workers, particularly in fields like engineering, technology, and manufacturing. Additionally, the country has a strong tradition in textiles, automotive, and aerospace industries, making it an attractive location for companies in these sectors seeking specialized skills.

Turkey’s cost of labor is relatively lower than in Western Europe and North America, providing companies with the opportunity to reduce operational costs while still accessing top-tier talent. Moreover, Turkey's young, dynamic, and multilingual workforce adds to its appeal, particularly for companies targeting emerging markets in the Middle East and Europe. All these factors make Turkey an attractive market for international companies looking to hire remote talent. 

What is an Employer of Record in Turkey?

An Employer of Record (EOR) in Turkey refers to a third-party service that legally employs workers in Turkey on behalf of your company. While your organization retains control over these employees’ daily tasks and workloads, the EOR takes on the full legal responsibility for employment. As the legal employer, the EOR assumes full legal responsibility for any new hires. This includes managing payroll, deducting taxes, ensuring compliance with local employment regulations, administering benefits, and handling any other employee-related requirements specific to Turkey.

Partnering with an EOR service is beneficial for companies wanting to hire skilled foreign workers or expand their operations into Turkey since it simplifies this process considerably. Instead of requiring your HR team to master Turkey’s employment laws and regulations, you can delegate these responsibilities to a local EOR in Turkey and gain peace of mind that your global operations will be compliant.

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Best Employer of Record in Turkey: Pricing Comparison Chart

This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top Employer of Record selections for hiring staff in Turkey to help you find the best EOR service for your budget and business needs.

Tools Price
Deel Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people
RemoFirst From $25/user/month
Omnipresent From $100/employee/month
Skuad From $199/employee/month or $19/contractor/month
San Global Pricing upon request
Mercans Pricing upon request
Globalization Partners Pricing upon request
Horizons Pricing upon request
Velocity Global Pricing upon request
NNRoad Pricing upon request
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How to Choose an Employer of Record in Turkey

An EOR service can solve many different challenges and simplify the process of hiring and managing staff in Turkey. To help you figure out which EOR service best fits your business needs, you need to document your specific challenges first.

As you work through your own unique selection process, keep the following points in mind:

  • What problem are you trying to solve? Start by identifying the challenges you're trying to overcome, whether that's managing compliance with Turkey’s employment laws and tax regulations, offering health benefits that are compliant with Turkish government requirements, or trying to secure staff strategically located between Europe and Asia to help you tap into new markets.
  • Who will benefit from the service? Consider who will manage the EOR relationship (i.e., who will your main contact people be in-house?) and how having an employer of record will improve their day-to-day work tasks.
  • What is your budget? To evaluate cost, estimate how many employees you anticipate hiring in Turkey. Since EOR providers typically charge a monthly fee for each new hire, this will help you anticipate your monthly costs.
  • What outcomes are important? Review the capabilities you want to gain or improve, and how you will measure success. Being clear on your desired outcomes upfront is crucial to avoid wasting valuable time.
  • Would the EOR platform work with your technical requirements? Consider how the service provider's software ecosystem would work alongside your existing workflows and systems. Does their software framework integrate with your existing HR software, or would you face data management roadblocks?

Remember every business is different — don’t assume that a Turkish employer of record service will work for your organization just because it's popular.

Reviews of the Best Employer of Record Services in Turkey

To help you find the best EOR service for hiring employees in Turkey, I’ve described my top 10 selections in detail, including the specific services each provider offers and how HR teams can use them effectively. I’ve also included 10 more EOR service providers for Turkey below in case you’d like more options to consider.

Best for offering local health benefits to Turkish EOR employees

  • Free demo available
  • Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Deel is a well-established employer of record platform that helps companies rapidly employ workers in 150+ countries, including Turkey. 

Deel owns a local entity in Turkey staffed with legal experts to keep track of regulatory changes and ensure all legal obligations are met on your behalf. To hire an employee in Turkey with Deel, the average onboarding time frame is 3 days.

Why I picked Deel: Deel excels as an EOR service provider in Turkey by offering streamlined contract management, and ensuring compliance with Turkish employment laws. Deel also helps organizations offer localized employee benefits for Turkish staff, including private health insurance, life insurance, a private pension plan, a minimum living allowance, and social security contributions.

In addition, Deel has launched several new offerings over the past year, including global payroll, global mobility support, integrated Slack tools, and advanced integrations. These services, all combined, facilitate efficient and compliant hiring processes within the Turkish talent market.

Deel Key Services:

Deel offers end-to-end management for your employees based in Turkey, covering everything from hiring and onboarding to termination. Their web app is user-friendly and provides a range of features to help businesses manage their remote teams effectively, including contract management and expense tracking. 

Their integrated contract management function supports advanced customizations such as stipends, signing bonuses, and stock options. You can also use Deel for visa and immigration support if you want to relocate existing employees to Turkey, with Deel managing the entire visa process for your organization in-house.

Deel offers 24/7 customer support and live chat and is known for its fast support.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Comprehensive employee benefits
  • Local compliance expertise
  • Fast onboarding process

Cons:

  • Potential complexity for first-time users
  • Limited customization options

Best for budget-conscious remote team expansion

  • Free demo available
  • From $25/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Remofirst is a global EOR service provider on a mission to free employers from geographical boundaries so they can build global teams with ease. They offer EOR services in 180+ countries, eliminating the need to set up multiple legal entities abroad.

Why I picked Remofirst: If you plan to hire many EOR employees in different countries, like Turkey, Remofirst is a good option because it understands the local laws and employment requirements, so you don’t have to navigate complex regulations on your own. Additionally, to simplify your payroll process, Remofirst summarizes and aggregates your EOR invoices for review, showing each EOR employee’s salary in their local currency, including Turkish Lira (TRY). 

They'll automatically calculate your team’s hours, time off, holidays, bonuses, and commissions so you don’t have to worry about it. Instead, you only need to review a single monthly invoice and approve it for payment, rather than approving multiple individual invoices and payments. Additionally, Remofirst is equipped to support you in hiring full-time employees and independent contractors.

Remofirst Key Services:

Their team of legal experts and HR professionals will ensure your business operations are always compliant with changing Turkish regulations, with compliance documentation accessible at all times through your secure dashboard. Their customer support team is also available 24/7 in case you need additional help. All clients also receive a dedicated account manager as their main point of contact.

On top of their EOR services, Remofirst also provides international payroll and invoice management, global benefits management (including insurance and equity plans, plus time-off management), and employee support with obtaining visas and other immigration documentation. They can even help you allocate equipment to your global employees.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Robust employee support
  • User-friendly platform
  • Comprehensive compliance management

Cons:

  • Service availability may vary by region
  • Dependence on third-party providers for some services

Best for local labor law compliance

  • From $100/employee/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Omnipresent is a global employment partner that helps businesses hire and manage remote teams across the world. As an employer of record (EOR), Omnipresent takes care of the legal and administrative tasks involved in employing staff in different countries.

Why I picked Omnipresent: When hiring in Turkey, Omnipresent helps you navigate local labor laws and ensures your business stays compliant. They manage employment contracts, including any specific legal requirements in Turkey, like tax and social security filings. You don’t have to worry about setting up a local entity because Omnipresent acts as the legal employer for your team in Turkey. Plus, their expertise in handling termination processes and employee benefits specific to Turkey makes them a reliable partner for hiring in this market.

Omnipresent Key Services:

Omnipresent also offers global payroll solutions, ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time, regardless of where they’re located. They also handle onboarding, making sure your new hires are set up with all the necessary paperwork and benefits. 

They also have employee benefits tailored to each country, including health insurance, pension plans, and wellness programs, helping you offer competitive compensation packages to attract top talent. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Easy to manage payroll for global teams in one platform
  • Handles tax compliance across multiple countries
  • Strong local expertise in employment regulations

Cons:

  • Lacks integration options
  • Delays in customer support response times

Best for hiring and paying talent in Turkey

  • Free demo available
  • From $199/employee/month or $19/contractor/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

Skuad’s digital HR platform helps global employers hire, pay, and manage employees in over 160 countries, including Turkey. When you hire them as your Turkish EOR partner, they’ll manage the whole hiring process on your behalf, including creating employment agreements and other legal documents.

Why I picked Skuad: As part of their EOR service, Skuad offers remote hiring and can facilitate payroll in multiple currencies. This includes the management of invoices as well as payroll automation. Skuad also offers robust compliance frameworks for local employment laws in Turkey, including visa and immigration processes, statutory benefits, and tax obligations.

Skuad Key Services:

Skuad's EOR services include remote employee onboarding, employee benefits, time-off tracking, and managing tax compliance. As part of their global hiring service, they’ll handle all the required documentation on your behalf, including work permits and visas for your new hires and their dependents. 

Beyond that, Skuad can also help you distribute computer equipment to your new employees, and track company assets like phones and other IT devices.


Pros and cons

Pros:

  • User-friendly platform
  • Extensive HR support
  • Comprehensive compliance management

Cons:

  • Possible delays in customer support response time
  • Limited customization options

Best native Turkish EOR provider for in-country expertise

  • Pricing upon request

San Global is a well-known EOR service provider that offers EOR and payroll processing services dedicated to hiring talent in Turkey. 

Why I picked San Global: San Global is an EOR service provider that only offers specialized services within Turkey, making them hyper-focused on helping international companies hire employees in the region. The company stands out for its deep understanding of the Turkish market and its ability to navigate complex employment regulations. 

San Global Key Services:

Their EOR services ensure compliance with Turkish labor laws and include managing payroll, benefits, and other HR tasks on behalf of their clients. They’re known for their meticulous attention to local compliance, ensuring that companies can confidently hire and manage employees without worrying about regulatory pitfalls. 

In addition, their expertise in Turkish labor laws and their commitment to providing comprehensive HR support make them a top choice for businesses looking to expand into Turkey.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong focus on compliance and risk management
  • Comprehensive payroll and tax management services
  • Extensive knowledge of Turkish labor laws

Cons:

  • Limited online presence and client reviews
  • EOR services are limited to Turkey

Best for an advanced EOR management platform

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

Mercans is a global EOR provider that offers services in Turkey, including global payroll and other HR solutions. Their services emphasize compliance, local expertise, and seamless integration for businesses expanding into the Turkish market. 

Why I picked Mercans: EOR services via Mercans include compliance management and extensive local knowledge, a commitment to personalized service, and access to an advanced technology platform to streamline payroll and HR processes. They stand out for their ability to handle complex employment scenarios, making them a top choice for companies seeking reliable EOR services in Turkey.

Mercans Key Services:

Mercans provides tailored HR solutions to support the diverse needs of each client. This customization ensures that businesses receive support aligned with their unique requirements, enhancing overall employee satisfaction.

Mercans also runs its EOR services from an advanced technology platform that includes real-time reporting and analytics features, giving client companies valuable insights into their global HR operations. This level of data also helps client companies make informed decisions and improve strategic planning.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Extensive local expertise
  • Personalized service
  • Advanced technology platform

Cons:

  • Integration challenges with some existing systems
  • Limited physical presence in some regions

Best for an AI-driven global employment platform

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

Globalization Partners (or G-P) is a leading EOR service provider that assists companies looking to hire and manage employees in Turkey. Their global HR platform streamlines international hiring, compliance, payroll, and benefits administration, ensuring a smooth onboarding process for Turkish employees.

Why I picked Globalization Partners: G-P’s sophisticated global EOR platform is designed to handle complex regulatory environments, making it easy for businesses to hire and manage employees in numerous countries, including Turkey. 

New hires can be onboarded in days, with locally-compliant contracts according to Turkish laws. Using G-P, you can also pay your EOR employees in over 180+ currencies (including cryptocurrencies) using Venmo or bank transfers.

Globalization Partners Key Services:

G-P offers automated onboarding processes, real-time expense reporting, and a dedicated support team, all of which contribute to its reputation as one of the best EOR services in Turkey. 

Their team includes local HR experts who understand the intricacies of Turkish labor laws and cultural nuances and can also assist with global expansion plans and executing global transactions as needed.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Easy and quick international hiring and onboarding process
  • Strong compliance and risk management
  • Comprehensive global employment platform

Cons:

  • Dependence on the platform for all HR functions
  • Limited customization options

Best for a flexible EOR contract with no termination fee

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

Horizons offers streamlined global HR solutions including EOR and PEO services, international payroll and recruitment, and global mobility & immigration support.

Why I picked Horizons: I included Horizons in this list because their EOR service is cost-effective compared to others, and they offer flexible contract terms. You can end your EOR relationship with them at any time without worrying about costly termination fees or other penalties.

Their Turkey-based EOR services are administered by their local experts who are well-versed in Turkey’s employment laws, including statutory benefits such as vacation leave, maternity leave, and paternity leave. Their onboarding process for new employees in Turkey is also very quick, with a minimum onboarding time of just 24 hours

Horizons Key Services:

In addition to their standard EOR services, they offer additional niche service offerings such as tips for doing business in Turkey, guides to help with global expansion, resources for strategic mergers & acquisitions, and advice on accessing new and emerging markets.

Horizons also provides cultural training and support to help employees integrate seamlessly into their new work environment. This service enhances employee satisfaction and retention by addressing cultural nuances and fostering a positive workplace culture.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Cultural integration support
  • Strong focus on compliance
  • Deep knowledge of Turkish labor laws

Cons:

  • Service offerings may vary by region
  • Dependence on local partners for some services

Best for navigating complex regulatory landscapes

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

Velocity Global is a well-known employer of record (EOR) and professional employer organization (PEO) provider that simplifies global hiring thanks to its network of on-the-ground experts in 185+ countries, including Turkey. 

Why I picked Velocity Global: I included Velocity Global in this list because of their well-known reputation for global EOR services and their expertise in navigating complex regulatory environments. They stand out with their ability to handle intricate regulatory landscapes, ensuring companies can expand efficiently without legal hurdles.

Velocity Global Key Services:

Velocity Global offers comprehensive support for their EOR clients, including everything from onboarding to ongoing HR management, backed by a deep understanding of local employment laws. Key services include payroll, compliance, benefits management, employee training, and risk management for your Turkish employee operations. 

In addition to its EOR services, Velocity Global can also help you simplify your plans for global expansion or offer additional global immigration services in case you want to move international employees to another location.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong understanding of the Turkish regulatory environment
  • Localized payroll management
  • Efficient and thorough onboarding process

Cons:

  • Pricing details are not transparent
  • Limited customization options

Best for hiring foreign expats who live in Turkey

  • Pricing upon request

NNRoad is a prominent EOR service provider in Turkey, offering a wide range of services to facilitate international hiring with an emphasis on tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of companies entering the Turkish market.

Why I picked NNRoad: In addition to NNRoad’s standard EOR capabilities, they are also able to help client companies hire foreign expats who already reside in Turkey, or relocate foreign workers to Turkey, if needed.

Each client receives personalized attention from a dedicated account manager, ensuring consistent and responsive support. This personalized service enhances the overall client experience, providing a reliable point of contact for all EOR-related inquiries.

NNRoad Key Services:

NNRoad offers in-depth knowledge of Turkish labor laws and regulations, ensuring that all employment practices are fully compliant. This expertise helps businesses avoid legal pitfalls and maintain smooth operations in Turkey. 

Their payroll services are adaptable to the specific needs of each client, including handling complex payroll calculations and tax filings. In addition, you can use NNRoad to offer employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks, to your Turkish EOR employees.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Dedicated account management
  • Comprehensive employee benefits management
  • In-depth knowledge of Turkish labor laws

Cons:

  • May require time to fully understand unique client needs
  • Limited presence outside major Turkish cities

Other Turkish Employer of Record Services

Here are some other EOR service providers in Turkey that didn’t make it into my top 10 shortlist, but are still worth considering:

  1. Remote

    For competitive and cost-effective benefits packages

  2. Multiplier

    EOR service for quick employee onboarding

  3. Papaya Global

    For an AI-based payroll engine

  4. Rippling

    For managing IT requirements for EOR employees

  5. Atlas HXM

    EOR partner for enterprise organizations

  6. Rivermate

    EOR service for European client companies

  7. Express Global Employment

    For combined EOR and PEO services in Turkey

  8. Safeguard Global

    EOR service for NGOs and non-profit organizations

  9. Leap29

    For hiring experts in the technology and engineering sectors

  10. INSGlobal

    EOR for fast market entry into Turkey

  11. Gloroots

    EOR service for small businesses or startups

  12. Manpower Turkey

    For a service provider specifically focused on Turkey

  13. Bradford Jacobs

    EOR service for assistance with business expansion in Turkey

Hiring in Turkey: Important Details

Here are some key details to note if this is your first time hiring staff located in Turkey. Your EOR provider will manage these compliance details on your behalf. However, proactively informing yourself of these details is always recommended before you invest your resources into sourcing staff based in Turkey.

In Turkey:

  • Employment laws in Turkey are set by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, along with regulations from the Turkish Labor Law (Law No. 4857), which governs employment practices in the country.
  • You can hire employees (full-time, part-time, temporary, seasonal, or on-call) or contractors, in certain situations. Your Turkish EOR provider can help you determine the best hiring option depending on your needs while helping you prevent employee misclassification issues.
  • Turkey has both mandatory payroll deductions and other employment or social security contributions that must be collected, including the following:
    • Social Security Premiums (SGK),
    • Income Tax,
    • Unemployment Insurance (İşsizlik Sigortası), and
    • Stamp Tax.
  • Turkish is the official language in Turkey. However, other languages are spoken in different regions, including Kurdish, Arabic, Zaza, and English.
  • The standard working week in Turkey is 45 hours per week spread over a 6-day work week (7.5 hours per day), or spread over 5 days (9 hours per day).
    • Overtime is allowed under the Turkish Labor Law (Law No. 4857) and is calculated at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate for weekdays and 2 times the regular rate if worked on weekends or public holidays. 
    • The maximum overtime permitted is 270 hours per year and employees cannot work more than 11 hours in one day.
  • In Turkey, employees are paid monthly, typically at the end of each month. There is no legal requirement for a 13th or 14th-month payment system. 
  • Paid vacation in Turkey starts at 14 days of annual leave per year for employees who have worked between 1 and 5 years. It increases to 20 days for those with 5 to 15 years of service and 26 days for those with over 15 years of service.
  • There are 9 national public holidays (spread over 15.5 days) plus several regional holidays that are celebrated in Turkey which employees are paid for. Understanding and complying with employment norms and legal requirements surrounding Turkish public holidays is one area where your EOR service will shine, managing these occurrences hassle-free on your behalf.
  • National public holidays in Turkey include:
    • New Year's Day (January 1)
    • Ramadan Feast (Eid al-Fitr) (variable dates in April, 3.5 days long) 
    • National Sovereignty and Children's Day (April 23)
    • Labor and Solidarity Day (May 1)
    • Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day (May 19)
    • Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) (variable dates in June, 4.5 days long)
    • Democracy and National Unity Day (July 15)
    • Victory Day (August 30)
    • Republic Day (October 28 & 29, 1.5 days long)
  • Turkey offers maternity leave and paternity leave.
    • The maternity leave entitlement is 16 weeks (8 weeks before the birth and 8 weeks after).
    • The paternity leave entitlement for fathers is 5 days.
    • During these leaves, employees receive their full salary payments from Turkey’s Social Security Institution.
  • Paid sick leave in Turkey is 5 days. After 3 consecutive days of illness, employees can receive salary reimbursement from Turkey’s Social Security Institution.
  • The probationary period in Turkey is up to 2 months, but it can be extended to 4 months if specified in a collective bargaining agreement.
  • The termination terms in Turkey are mandated by the Turkish Labor Law (Law No. 4857). The required notice period varies between 2 to 8 weeks based on the employee’s length of service. This is another area where a local Turkish EOR can provide assistance to ensure the probation period and related severance are handled correctly.
  • Severance pay is offered and typically calculated as one month’s gross salary for each year of service.

Selection Criteria for Employer of Record Turkey

Uncovering the best EOR services for this list required a deep understanding of how these services can alleviate common challenges, such as legally hiring employees abroad, managing international payments, ensuring compliance with local labor laws, providing competitive benefits, and facilitating smooth onboarding.

My approach to choosing the best EOR services is grounded in thorough research into recently published employer of record market data and an understanding of which partnerships would add the most value for organizations hoping to access the global talent market.

Here are the specific criteria I used to carefully compare the service offerings for each provider in this list:

Core Employer of Record Services (25% of total score): To be considered for inclusion in this list, each EOR provider had to offer the following basic services first:

  • The corporate structure to legally and compliantly hire employees in multiple countries without a local entity
  • The ability to manage global workforce payroll and taxes in compliance with local regulations
  • Assistance with offering competitive and locally compliant benefits packages
  • Assistance with navigating visa and work permit processes for expatriate employees
  • Robust procedures to ensure data privacy and security that comply with international standards, including GDPR and other requirements

Additional Standout Services (25% of total score): To help me narrow in on the best EOR services out of the numerous options available, I also took note of any unique or less common services, including:

  • Advanced technology platforms that streamlined payroll and HR processes while still offering ease of use
  • Specialized experience in hiring employees within specific new countries or key industries
  • Services that enhance remote work compliance and global mobility needs
  • Specialized customer support for complex immigration cases
  • Assistance with international IT requirements, including managing computer equipment, software licenses, and other asset-tracking requirements
  • A focus on eco-friendly and sustainable employment practices

Industry Experience (10% of total score): To evaluate the industry experience of each EOR service provider, I considered the following:

  • How many years their business has operated in the EOR space
  • Any industry recognitions or certifications the provider may hold in international HR and payroll
  • Their depth of knowledge in local labor laws across multiple jurisdictions
  • Their expertise in new markets, including how many different countries they offer local expertise in
  • Evidence of a strong track record managing global expansion processes
  • The combined experience and credentials of their team members, if available

Customer Onboarding (10% of total score): To get a sense of each provider's customer onboarding process, I considered the following factors:

  • The availability of comprehensive onboarding materials, such as fact sheets, guides, FAQ repositories, or other training resources
  • Support for integrating the EOR provider's software with existing HR systems
  • Direct access to onboarding specialists, customer support, or a dedicated account manager during the setup phase

Customer Support (10% of total score): Since the EOR provider will act as your remote workers' legal employer, it's important to ensure you'll receive timely communications and top-level support. To evaluate the level of customer support each company offered, I considered the following:

  • The availability of a multilingual support team that covers different time zones
  • Multiple support channels, including phone, email, and live chat
  • Evidence of responsiveness and effectiveness in resolving issues, as inferred from customer reviews
  • The existence of dedicated account managers to provide assistance as needed

Value for Price (10% of total score): To gauge the overall value of each service, I considered the following factors:

  • Transparent pricing models without hidden fees
  • Comparative analysis of service offerings versus cost
  • Flexibility in service packages to suit different business sizes and needs

Keep in mind that EOR services are complicated, and because of that the price tag can sometimes be high. However, the prices for their services still offer a good ROI considering the complexity of the premium-grade services you're gaining.

Customer Reviews (10% of total score): Evaluating customer reviews is the final element of my selection process, which helps me understand how happy real users are with a service. To determine this, I considered the following factors:

  • Consistently high ratings across various consumer review platforms
  • Specific feedback on the ease of use of the EOR services
  • Testimonials highlighting exceptional customer support and problem resolution

Using this assessment framework helped me identify the employer of record services that go beyond basic requirements to offer additional value through unique services, deep industry experience, smooth onboarding, effective support, and overall value for price.

As more businesses expand across borders, the need for efficient, compliant, and user-friendly solutions for hiring employees abroad, and managing international payments, compliance, benefits, and onboarding has never been more critical. As a result, employer of record services have continued to evolve, with an emphasis on technology-driven solutions that offer flexibility, comprehensive support, and innovative features to facilitate global operations.

Here are the most recent trends affecting EOR services and the HR software systems that are used to offer them:

  • Immigration Support: There is a growing demand for assistance with immigration services like visa and work permit sponsorships, simplifying global talent acquisition processes for client companies immensely.
  • Specialized Services for Diverse Needs: Several EOR providers have begun to offer IP and invention rights protection and equity incentive planning services, to cater to the specific needs of their client companies.
  • Enhanced Employee Benefits Packages: There's a growing trend in EOR providers going beyond standard healthcare coverage to offer a full spread of enterprise-level medical and health benefits, stock options, and even one-time benefits like moving bonuses. This trend demonstrates an understanding of the importance of attracting and retaining top talent globally​.
  • AI-Backed Knowledge Bases: Some EOR providers (including Deel) are beginning to offer legally vetted knowledge bases or information wikis that use artificial intelligence to surface answers to common questions quickly. This helps customers source details on hiring within a specific country fast, without relying on human-run support systems.

As the market continues to evolve, these trends are likely to shape the future of international employment, making it easier for businesses to navigate the challenges of global expansion. For a closer look at specific EOR providers that are capitalizing on these trends, I recommend reading our in-depth reviews of Velocity Global, Skuad, and Oyster HR.

Key Employer of Record Services

An Employer of Record (EOR) simplifies hiring and compliance in Turkey by managing payroll, tax obligations, and labor laws. Key services include:

  • Payroll in TRY: Ensures accurate salary payments in compliance with Turkish labor laws, including the Turkish Labor Law (4857), covering wage rates, overtime, and record-keeping to prevent penalties from labor authorities like the Social Security Institution (SGK).
  • Tax Compliance and Social Security Contributions: Handles income tax (Gelir Vergisi) and mandatory social security contributions such as pension, health insurance, and unemployment insurance, ensuring adherence to the Turkish Revenue Administration (Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı, GIB) and the Social Security system.
  • Labor Law Compliance: Provides expertise on Turkish labor regulations, including working hours, overtime, paid leave, and termination procedures as outlined in Turkish labor laws and collective bargaining agreements, reducing legal risks and ensuring employment law compliance. This ensures compliance with regional, national, and international workforce laws and conventions.
  • Talent Acquisition and Background Checks: Conducts industry-specific credential verification and background checks to ensure new hires meet Turkish legal standards and professional certification requirements.
  • Visa and Work Permits: Assists with securing the necessary work permits and residency for non-Turkish employees, ensuring compliance with the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı) and Turkish immigration laws.
  • Onboarding and Offboarding: Manages compliant onboarding and terminations in line with Turkish labor laws, including notice periods, severance payments, and legal termination processes to reduce the risk of disputes.
  • Benefits Administration: Provides competitive benefits packages, including health insurance, pension contributions, meal allowances, and transportation subsidies, tailored to the Turkish labor market.
  • HR Support: Offers ongoing consultation on Turkish employment laws, workplace safety regulations, and compliance with mandatory employee-related documentation, including payroll records and Social Security filings.
  • Risk Management and Insurance: Oversees workers' compensation and ensures compliance with local insurance requirements, including occupational accident insurance, to mitigate legal and financial risks.
  • Multi-Language Support: Facilitates communication with Turkey’s diverse workforce through translation and localization of employment contracts, legal documents, and HR materials.

Benefits of an Employer of Record Service

EOR services are a savvy option for organizations looking to expand their global footprint without the complexities and liabilities associated with international employment laws and practices. For companies contemplating global expansion, understanding the benefits of partnering with an EOR can provide the clarity and confidence you need to move forward. 

Here are several EOR benefits you can expect to gain:

  • Quick Market Entry: For organizations aiming to test new markets or hire talent in new countries where they have no legal presence, an EOR offers a swift and efficient solution to initiate operations, saving time and resources.
  • Simplified Global Payroll: Using an EOR service simplifies the complex process of managing international payroll, including tax deductions, withholdings, and currency conversions for your employees worldwide.
  • Global Compliance & Risk Mitigation: By managing compliance, an EOR service provides expertise in navigating the intricacies of employment laws, tax regulations, and insurance requirements in multiple jurisdictions, helping businesses safeguard their operations against compliance-related risks.
  • Enhanced Benefits Negotiation: By leveraging their extensive networks and purchasing power, EORs can negotiate better international insurance rates and secure competitive benefit packages on your behalf, enhancing your ability to attract and retain top talent worldwide.
  • Improved Cost Effectiveness: Using an EOR service is a cost-effective way for businesses to enter new markets, compared to the significant costs of establishing a new foreign entity. The latter option involves significant upfront legal fees, plus other costs related to office infrastructure, staffing, and local benefits and insurance coverage. 

Understanding the benefits of an EOR service is crucial for strategic planning and operational efficiency. As businesses look towards international markets for growth opportunities, partnering with an EOR provider offers a streamlined, cost-effective, and compliant pathway to global expansion.

Struggling to convince upper management to consider an EOR service? Highlighting foreign hiring costs and EOR efficiency in hiring foreign workers could seal the deal.

Costs & Pricing for Employer of Record Services

Typically, the cost of an EOR service follows a fee per-employee, per-month pricing model, which can vary widely depending on a range of factors. This model allows for scalability and predictability in budgeting for international expansion efforts.

In general, EOR services in Turkey cost between $599 to $1,500 per employee, per month. 

Key factors that can influence the pricing of an employer of record service include:

  • Geographic Location: Costs can vary significantly based on the country or countries you're hiring in. This is due to local economic conditions, labor laws, and the complexity of compliance requirements.
  • Employee Seniority and Role Complexity: The level and nature of the roles being filled can also impact the monthly cost. Senior positions or roles requiring special qualifications may increase the price due to higher benefits and compensation management costs.
  • Number of Employees: The total number of employees being managed can also impact the cost. In some cases, higher volumes may lead to volume discounts, making per-employee costs more economical.
  • Custom Requirements: Any specific needs beyond the standard service offering may also contribute to the monthly cost. This may include customized solutions for recruitment, specialized employee onboarding, or unique compliance requirements, all of which can affect pricing.

Some EORs also operate under different pricing models, including a percentage of employee salary model, a fixed pricing model, and custom pricing models. If you'd like to delve deeper into the different factors that influence prices, my article explaining the most common EOR pricing structures is a natural next step.

When considering an EOR service, it is crucial to understand how these factors impact the overall cost to ensure that the service aligns with your business's needs and budget constraints. Anticipating the specific requirements of your international expansion strategy will help you choose the most cost-effective and efficient EOR solution for your needs.

FAQs about EOR Services in Turkey

If you’ve got specific questions about the requirements to hire Turkish employees or how EOR services work, these answers to frequently asked questions are a good place to start:

What does an Employer of Record do?

An Employer of Record (EOR) service provider is a third-party entity that can help an organization hire a new employee in a country where it has no physical presence. It’s a useful service for businesses that are expanding internationally but don’t have physical offices established yet, or don’t ever plan to establish them. In these situations, the EOR provider becomes the legal employer of your remote staff on your behalf.

In this type of partnership, the EOR service provider deals with local employee-related matters such as managing payroll, deducting taxes, and administering the onboarding process for new employees. This allows organizations to access global talent while reducing their legal liabilities and compliance risks. This is because the EOR company assumes the legal responsibility for your international new hires on your behalf.

What are the minimum wage requirements in Turkey?

As of 2024, the minimum wage in Turkey is 20,002.50 TRY gross per month, which translates to approximately 17,002.12 TRY net per month after deductions. This minimum wage applies to all workers in the country, regardless of their industry or occupation. The minimum wage is reviewed annually by the government, and adjustments are made based on inflation and the cost of living.

The gross minimum wage includes various mandatory deductions, such as income tax, social security contributions, and unemployment insurance. These deductions account for the difference between the gross and net amounts that employees receive.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult local government sources or work directly with an employer of record in Turkey.

Do EOR providers offer other types of global HR services?

Yes, many EOR service providers also offer professional employer organization services (also known as PEO services), as well as international payroll services.

PEO services, offered by PEO companies, are a popular partner for HR outsourcing. They can help you with international compliance issues, benefits administration, workers’ compensation, and other HR administrative tasks.

International payroll services streamline payment processes to help companies pay remote workers and contractors in one consolidated payroll spanning multiple currencies. They also manage in-country compliance and tax requirements on your behalf, making the entire payroll process easier.

To dive even deeper into this topic, read our article covering other global HR service providers to figure out the best fit for you.

What are some of the consequences of non-compliance?

As an organization, you never want to be deemed as non-compliant in the eyes of any government body. The exact rules and regulations will vary according to the jurisdiction you’re operating in, which is one of the main benefits of using an EOR service provider.

If you don’t use an EOR and you do hire international workers, you may quickly find yourself in non-compliance. The consequences of doing so will depend on the severity of the violation, but they could include all of the following:

  • Fines and penalties
  • Legal actions such as lawsuits or other litigation proceedings
  • Corrective measures and compliance orders
  • Revocation of business licenses or operating permits
  • Reputational damage if the news becomes public (loss of public trust and loss of internal employee respect)
  • Increased monitoring and additional government scrutiny

Companies who fail to follow international labor laws cannot simply say they were unaware of the legalities, and hence, didn’t follow them. That’s where an EOR service can really remove a lot of potential risk and liability from the international hiring process.

To brush up on your compliance best practices, have a quick read through our HR Compliance Guide next.

Are there any risks to using an Employer of Record service?

In the world of business, nothing is ever 100% risk-free, and that is true for EOR services as well. While EOR services do offer substantial advantages, here are some of the risks you should also be mindful of as you choose the right partner for you:

Financial risks:

  • Hidden costs and service fees: Some EOR providers may charge additional service fees for specific tasks, such as processing documents, onboarding or offboarding employees, or providing additional HR advice.
  • Mandatory benefits: Some countries require mandatory benefits for employees. In that case, the EOR will charge you for those benefits in addition to the employee salary and their service percentage, which can add up.
  • Currency fluctuations: Exchange fluctuations can impact the cost of payroll and other financial transactions as the strength of a currency you’re using goes up or down.

Operational risks:

  • Data security: Since you’re entrusting sensitive employee data to your EOR, you’ll want to consider the strength of their data protection practices and policies, including their incident response plans, IT penetration testing, and data management certifications, such as ISO 27001.

Strategic risks:

  • Loss of control: You will need to relinquish some degree of control over the workforce management processes of your EOR employees, which may impact your organization’s strategic decision-making capabilities.
  • Brand reputation: Any negative actions, incidents, or practices of your chosen EOR can directly impact your organization’s brand reputation and create a negative employee experience if not handled properly.

For a deeper dive into this topic, read our comprehensive guide to potential EOR risks, including strategies to mitigate each potential issue upfront.

Gain Access to the Best Talent with an EOR in Turkey

If you made it this far, I hope you have a better sense of how EOR services can simplify the process of hiring Turkish employees. They're truly a valuable resource, whether you're an enterprise organization looking to snap up the top talent in Turkey, or a small business or startup trying to break into the Turkish talent marketplace without launching your own entity.

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Kim Behnke
By Kim Behnke

Kim Behnke is an HR Tool Expert & Writer for People Managing People. She draws on her 9 years of human resources experience and her keen eye for systematic processes to support her analyses of the top HR tools on the market. She is passionate about maximizing efficiencies and streamlining workflows to ensure internal systems run smoothly. Kim's HR experience includes recruitment, onboarding, performance management, training and development, policy development and enforcement, and HR analytics. She also has degrees in psychology, writing, publishing, and technical communication, and recently completed a Certified Digital HR Specialist program through the Academy to Innovate HR. When away from her desk, she can usually be found outside tending to her ever-expanding garden.