IN ISTANBUL FOR WORK PURPOSES

Work Permits and Visa Requirements:

  • Work Permit: Ensure that you have the necessary work permit to legally work in Turkey. Work permit requirements vary depending on your nationality, job position, and employer. Consult with your employer or the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security for guidance on obtaining a work permit.
  • Residence Permit: As a foreign worker, you’ll need to obtain a residence permit (Ikamet) to legally reside in Turkey. Your employer or HR department can assist you with the application process and provide the necessary documentation.

Main Hiring Agencies:

  • Adecco Turkey
    • Website: Adecco Turkey
    • Overview: Adecco is a global leader in workforce solutions, offering temporary staffing, permanent placement, and other HR services. Adecco Turkey provides recruitment services across a wide range of industries and job functions.
  • ManpowerGroup Turkey
    • Website: ManpowerGroup Turkey
    • Overview: ManpowerGroup is a leading global workforce solutions company that connects millions of people to meaningful work every day. ManpowerGroup Turkey offers staffing, recruitment, and workforce consulting services to businesses of all sizes.
  • Kelly Services Turkey
    • Website: Kelly Services Turkey
    • Overview: Kelly Services is a global workforce solutions provider that specializes in temporary staffing, permanent placement, and talent management services. Kelly Services Turkey helps organizations find the right talent to drive business success.
  • Hays Turkey
    • Website: Hays Turkey
    • Overview: Hays is a leading global recruitment firm specializing in professional and skilled recruitment. Hays Turkey offers recruitment services across various sectors, including finance, IT, engineering, and healthcare.
  • Randstad Turkey
    • Website: Randstad Turkey
    • Overview: Randstad is a global leader in HR services, providing recruitment, temporary staffing, and workforce solutions. Randstad Turkey connects job seekers with employers, helping businesses build successful teams.

Professional Networking:

  • Business Associations: Join business associations, chambers of commerce, and professional networking groups in Istanbul to expand your professional network and stay updated on industry trends and opportunities.
  • Networking Events: Attend networking events, conferences, and industry seminars to meet potential clients, partners, and colleagues. Websites like Meetup and Eventbrite list various professional events happening in Istanbul.

Finding Accommodation:

  • Neighborhoods: Consider neighborhoods close to your workplace or with convenient access to public transportation. Areas like Sisli, Besiktas, and Kadikoy are popular among expatriates and offer a range of accommodation options.
  • Real Estate Agents: Engage with local real estate agents or online platforms like Sahibinden and Airbnb to find suitable housing options that meet your budget and preferences.

Navigating the Workplace:

  • Work Culture: Familiarize yourself with Turkish work culture, which values respect, hierarchy, and punctuality. Take the time to understand your colleagues’ communication styles and expectations to foster positive working relationships.
  • Language Skills: While English is commonly used in multinational companies and business settings, learning basic Turkish phrases can enhance your communication and cultural integration in the workplace.

Health Insurance and Well-being:

  • Healthcare: Obtain comprehensive health insurance coverage to access medical services in Istanbul. Research healthcare providers, hospitals, and clinics in your area, and keep emergency contact numbers handy.
  • Wellness Activities: Take advantage of wellness activities such as gyms, yoga studios, and outdoor recreational areas to maintain a healthy work-life balance and combat stress.

Transportation and Commuting:

  • Public Transportation: Istanbul has an extensive public transportation network, including metro, buses, trams, and ferries. Consider purchasing an Istanbulkart for convenient and affordable travel around the city.
  • Traffic: Be prepared for heavy traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. Plan your commute in advance and explore alternative transportation options like cycling or walking for shorter distances.

Financial Management:

  • Banking Services: Open a local bank account to manage your finances and facilitate salary deposits and bill payments. Research banks that offer expatriate-friendly services and convenient branch locations.
  • Currency Exchange: Monitor currency exchange rates and consider using reputable exchange offices or banks to convert your foreign currency into Turkish lira (TRY) for everyday transactions.