What are the employee benefits in Turkey ?
Attracting and retaining top talent requires more than just competitive salaries. In Turkey, employee benefits have become a key differentiator among employers. In 2025, companies across various industries are enhancing their benefits packages to boost employee satisfaction and loyalty. Here are the top 10 benefits and perks Turkish employers are offering this year.
1. Employee benefits in Turkey / Social Security and Health Insurance (SGK)
All employees in Turkey are covered by mandatory social security (SGK), which includes retirement, disability, maternity, and healthcare. Employers contribute a significant portion to the fund, and it remains the foundation of employee welfare.
2. Employee benefits in Turkey / Private Health Insurance
Many companies supplement SGK with private health insurance. This perk offers faster access to private hospitals and more comprehensive coverage, especially appreciated by white-collar professionals and expats.
3. Employee benefits in Turkey / Meal Cards and Food Allowance
Meal benefits are common and often provided via prepaid meal cards like Sodexo or Multinet. These are accepted in restaurants and supermarkets, enhancing the daily welfare of employees.
4. Transportation Support
Especially in major cities with long commutes, employers offer transportation allowances or shuttle services. This perk is particularly important in Istanbul, where commuting can be time-consuming and costly.
5. Flexible Working Hours
Post-pandemic, flexibility in working hours has become standard in many companies. Employees may start and end their workday based on personal convenience, provided they meet core working hours.
6. Remote Work Opportunities
Even outside of tech sectors, remote work is increasingly offered either part-time or full-time. Many firms have adopted hybrid models to improve productivity and work-life balance.
7. Performance Bonuses and Profit Sharing
Merit-based bonuses are widely used to reward productivity. Some companies, especially in finance and tech, also offer profit-sharing plans as long-term incentives.
8. Professional Development Support
Turkish employers are investing in training programs, language courses, and educational allowances. Career advancement and upskilling are strong motivators for young professionals.
9. Additional Paid Leave
Beyond the mandatory annual leave, companies may offer extra days for birthdays, moving house, or mental health. This trend is especially visible in multinational companies.
10. Well-being and Mental Health Programs
In 2025, more employers are acknowledging the importance of mental health. Programs include access to therapy, wellness apps, meditation sessions, and internal support networks.
Employee benefits in Turkey / Sector-Specific Variations
- Tech Companies: Often lead in flexible work, training, and stock options.
- Manufacturing Firms: Prioritize transport, meals, and social security.
- Startups: Offer creative perks like team retreats, co-working passes, and flat hierarchies.
Employee benefits in Turkey are evolving rapidly. As competition for skilled talent intensifies, companies offering comprehensive and modern benefit packages stand out. For job seekers and HR professionals alike, understanding these trends is key to navigating the 2025 employment landscape.
