Remote Work Policies for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Turkey

1. What are the Remote Work Policies for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Turkey?

The U.S. Department of State advises that U.S. citizens and green card holders in Turkey should follow the Turkish government’s guidance on remote work. The Ministry of Interior Affairs has issued guidance on remote working arrangements for Turkish citizens and foreign nationals.

The guidance states that the employer must provide a Work From Home Agreement, specifying the conditions of work and the rights and obligations of both parties. The employer must also obtain approval from the Turkish government before allowing employees to work from home.

For foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens and green card holders, the Ministry also requires foreign nationals to obtain an appropriate residence permit that allows for remote work activities in Turkey.

The U.S. Department of State also reminds foreign nationals to comply with Turkish laws and regulations, including regarding digital currencies, data privacy, and labor laws.

2. What are the rules for the Remote Work Visas for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Turkey?

U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders may apply for a Remote Work Visa from Turkey if they meet the following criteria:

1. The applicant must have a valid U.S. passport or Green card.

2. The applicant must have a valid work contract with a Turkish company or an international company which is legally registered in Turkey.

3. The applicant must have proof of a minimum of 50,000 Turkish Lira in savings or an irrevocable letter of guarantee from a bank or a financial institution.

4. The applicant must provide proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in Turkey.

5. The applicant must provide proof of a valid health report and HIV/AIDS test results, which are valid for 90 days.

6. The applicant must provide a notarized CV and a copy of their diploma or degree certificate and/or professional license or certification (if applicable).

7. The applicant must provide proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Turkey (for example, bank statements for the last three months).

3. Are there any special tax laws for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Turkey that are working remotely?

Yes, there are special tax laws for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Turkey who are working remotely. U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Turkey who are working remotely are required to pay income tax in Turkey on their wages earned from their remote work. There are various exemptions and deductions available to taxpayers depending on their specific facts and circumstances, such as a double taxation agreement between Turkey and the US. Additionally, individuals are required to file a “statement of remote labor” with the local tax office in order to be taxed on their income from remote labor in line with the Turkish State Revenue Administration Law.

4. Are there any restrictions on the type of work that U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders can do while working remotely in Turkey?

Yes, there are restrictions on the type of work that U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders can do while working remotely in Turkey. Generally, such people are not allowed to work for a Turkish company or to engage in any form of paid employment in the country. They may, however, be allowed to work for a foreign company and receive a salary from abroad. Any individual working remotely in Turkey must also obtain a valid work permit from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

5. Are there any legal implications for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders engaging in remote work in Turkey?

Yes, there are legal implications for U.S. citizens and green card holders engaging in remote work in Turkey. U.S. citizens and green card holders must obtain a work permit or permission from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security in order to legally work remotely in Turkey. Additionally, U.S. citizens and green card holders must also comply with the local tax laws in order to avoid any potential fines or penalties.

6. Is there a minimum wage requirement for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders doing remote work in Turkey?

No, there is no minimum wage requirement for remote workers in Turkey. The Turkish Government does not impose minimum wage guidelines on foreign workers. However, the employer should be aware of the prevailing local minimum wage standards when offering a position to a foreign worker.

7. Does the government of Turkey provide any incentives to companies who hire U.S. Citizens or Green Card Holders to work remotely?

No, the government of Turkey does not currently provide any incentives to companies who hire U.S. Citizens or Green Card Holders to work remotely.

8. How can U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders obtain a remote work permit in Turkey?

U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders who wish to work remotely in Turkey must apply for a residence permit at the Immigration Office in the city or town in which they intend to stay. To apply, they must provide valid identification documents, proof of sufficient funds, and evidence of employment (such as a contract of employment) or a certificate of self-employment. If approved, applicants will be issued a residence permit that allows them to work remotely in Turkey for up to one year. Additionally, applicants must register with the local Social Security Institution in order to receive social security benefits.

9. Are there any other types of visas that may be required for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders to work remotely in Turkey?

Yes, there are other types of visas that may be required for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders to work remotely in Turkey. These visas include:

• Work Visa: This is a visa specifically for those who wish to work in Turkey.

• Business Visa: This type of visa is for those who will be conducting business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations in Turkey.

• Student Visa: This type of visa is for those who will be studying in Turkey.

• Tourist Visa: This type of visa is for those who will be traveling to Turkey as tourists, but not engaging in any paid activities.

• Residence Permit: This type of permit is required for those who plan on staying in Turkey for longer than 90 days.

10. Are there any restrictions on how long U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders can work remotely in Turkey?

Yes, US citizens and Green Card holders are restricted to a maximum of 90 days per year of remote work in Turkey.

11. Are there any specific health and safety requirements for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders working remotely in Turkey?

Yes. U.S. citizens and green card holders who are employed in Turkey must comply with all applicable Turkish laws and regulations, including those relating to health and safety. U.S. citizens and green card holders working remotely in Turkey should follow the same safety protocols as they would in the United States to ensure the safety of themselves, their family, and their work environment. This includes adhering to social distancing rules, wearing a face mask in public, and thoroughly washing their hands. Additionally, workers should take any necessary steps to protect digital privacy and security while teleworking, such as using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt their internet traffic.

12. Is there an age limit for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders to participate in remote work programs in Turkey?

Yes, there is an age limit for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders to participate in remote work programs in Turkey. The minimum age requirement for applicants is 21 years old.

13. Are there any restrictions on the type of technology or equipment that U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders must use while working remotely in Turkey?

Yes. The Ministry of Trade’s e-commerce legislation requires all users to use Turkish-made technology and equipment for remote work. Additionally, the Personal Data Protection Board requires that personal data obtained from Turkey-based customers be stored exclusively in Turkey.

14. Are there any restrictions on the type of projects that U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders can work on while working remotely in Turkey?

Yes. U.S. citizens and green card holders are subject to the same restrictions on the types of projects they can work on while working remotely in Turkey as in any other country. For example, they are prohibited from working on projects related to military or defense-related topics, or those that violate U.S. export control laws.

15. Are there any restrictions on the amount of hours that U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders can work each day while working remotely in Turkey?

Yes, U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders are subject to Turkish labor law, which states that a maximum of 8 hours of work per day, 40 hours per week, is permitted. Additionally, an overtime limit of 12 hours per day and 120 hours per month is also imposed.

16. How can U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders ensure that their remote work contracts comply with the laws of Turkey?

Individuals should work with an international lawyer or employment law attorney to ensure that their remote work contracts comply with the laws of Turkey. This includes researching local labor laws, hiring practices, and taxation regulations, as well as checking for any required licensing or special permits to ensure that the contract is valid and enforceable. Additionally, individuals should ensure that the contract clearly outlines the appropriate working hours, pay rate, and any other details of the job. In addition, it is important to familiarize yourself with Turkish culture and customs before entering into a contract. This includes understanding the country’s business etiquette, dress code, and language requirements.

17. Does the government of Turkey offer any subsidies or other financial incentives to companies who hire U.S citizens or Green Card holders to work remotely?

No, the government of Turkey does not offer any subsidies or other financial incentives to companies who hire U.S citizens or Green Card holders to work remotely. However, certain incentives may be available through the Turkish Employment Agency (ISKUR).

18 Are there limits on the number of employees that a company can hire to do remote work from Turkey?

Yes, the Turkish government has set limits on the number of employees that a company can hire to do remote work from Turkey. According to the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security, the maximum number of personnel that can be employed remotely from Turkey is 15.

19 What are the documentation requirements for businesses hiring U.S citizens or Green Card holders to work remotely from Turkey?

The documentation requirements for businesses hiring U.S citizens or Green Card holders to work remotely from Turkey may vary depending on the type of work being performed. Typically, employers must complete a Form I-9 and maintain it in the employee’s personnel record (or other suitable place). The Form I-9 is used to verify the identity and work authorization of the employee. Employers are also required to provide a copy of the employee’s passport, visa, and/or any other documents needed to establish employment eligibility. Additionally, businesses should keep a record of the employee’s address in Turkey and any other information relating to their employment. Finally, employers may be required to register with the Turkish Ministry of Labor in accordance with applicable laws.

20 What are the labor law requirements for businesses hiring U.S citizens or Green Card holders to do remote work from Turkey?

U.S citizens or Green Card holders who are hired to do remote work from Turkey must comply with the applicable labor laws of Turkey. Under Turkish law, employers must register their employees with the Turkish Social Security Institution and withhold the applicable taxes from the employee’s wages. They must also comply with regulations on working hours, minimum wage, and vacation and sick leave. Employees must be provided with the mandatory health and safety training, and employers must complete the required record-keeping and reporting. Employers must also ensure that all applicable labor regulations are followed.