Understanding Turkish Labor Law: The Foundation of Timekeeping
In Turkey, labor laws set the framework for timekeeping, making it crucial for businesses to have compliant systems. Standard working hours are capped at 45 hours per week and daily hours should not exceed 11. Employees are entitled to at least 24 consecutive hours of rest weekly, typically on Sundays. Working beyond these hours, especially on rest days, demands higher compensation—2.5 times the regular wage for rest days and double for public holidays. These regulations ensure fair labor practices and prevent overwork.
Employers must secure written consent from employees for overtime, which is capped at 270 hours annually. Overtime compensation varies: work exceeding the 45-hour weekly limit is paid at 150% of the regular hourly wage, while hours exceeding agreed limits but under 45 hours receive 125%. These laws protect employees' rights while allowing flexibility through compensatory time off, providing 1.5 hours off per overtime hour worked.