Turkey is an exciting destination for people seeking overseas job opportunities. With its growing industries, beautiful cities, and vibrant culture, Turkey offers select visa-sponsored roles — but it’s important to understand the requirements and realities first.
This guide covers available unskilled jobs, work conditions, visa rules, and how to apply successfully.
What Are Unskilled Jobs?
“Unskilled” jobs are positions that require little formal education or specialized training. Workers often learn tasks on the job. Common unskilled jobs include roles in construction, manufacturing, cleaning, and caregiving.
While the term “unskilled” is still widely used, it’s important to note that every job requires valuable skills, and workers in these roles play a vital part in the economy.
Available Unskilled Jobs in Turkey:
Some typical unskilled job opportunities include:
- Agricultural Worker
- Caregiver/Nanny
- Cleaner/Housekeeper
- Construction Laborer
- Delivery Driver
- Dishwasher/Kitchen Assistant
- Factory Worker
- Gardener/Landscaper
- Home Care Assistant
- Hotel Housekeeping Staff
- Maintenance Worker
- Restaurant Server
- Retail Assistant
- Warehouse Worker
Check Also: Turkey Work Visa for Foreign – Apply Now
Requirements:
- Ability to perform physical tasks (e.g., standing for long periods, lifting heavy loads)
- Basic communication and teamwork skills
- Familiarity with simple tools and safety equipment (a plus but not always required)
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Commitment to following health and safety regulations
- Some employers may require 2–3 years of relevant experience
Working Conditions:
- Work Hours: Up to 45 hours per week, spread over 6 days (Sunday usually off)
- Overtime: Paid at 1.5x regular hourly rate, with a maximum of 270 overtime hours per year
- Rest Periods: Minimum 9 hours between shifts
- Paid Leave: Annual paid vacation is mandatory by law, based on length of service
- Workplace Rights: Foreign and local workers are protected by Turkey’s labor laws (Source: Turkish Labour Law No. 4857)
Visa Sponsorship Reality Check:
Turkey has strict rules for foreign workers:
- Companies must have at least 100,000 Turkish Lira in capital to sponsor foreign workers.
- Foreign workers cannot make up more than 20% of a company’s workforce (except in tourism sectors).
- Work permits must be approved by the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
Important:
It is rare for companies to sponsor visas for completely unskilled roles. Most sponsorships happen in specialized fields or sectors facing worker shortages (e.g., caregiving, agriculture during harvest season).
Salary Expectations:
- Minimum Wage: Approx. 17,002 TRY per month gross (Source: Turkish Ministry of Labor)
- Unskilled workers can expect salaries near minimum wage, but pay may vary by location and industry.
- Some jobs offer free accommodation and meals, especially in agriculture or hospitality.
Benefits:
- Exposure to a vibrant culture and history
- Opportunity to learn or improve Turkish and English language skills
- Global networking opportunities
- Competitive cost of living compared to many European countries
- Legal access to public healthcare (once registered)
How to Apply for Visa Sponsorship Unskilled Jobs in Turkey for Foreigner 2025?
- Prepare a CV highlighting physical stamina, teamwork, and any relevant experience.
- Search for Jobs on platforms like:
- Look for Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship — usually mentioned in job ads.
- Apply Directly and be prepared to explain why you are a good fit even without specialized skills.
- Work Permit Application: If hired, the employer will apply for your work permit alongside your visa application.
Final Thoughts:
While unskilled jobs with visa sponsorship in Turkey exist, they are competitive and subject to strict regulations. Make sure to apply only to trusted employers, prepare strong applications, and stay informed about your rights.
Good luck with your job search and career journey in Turkey!
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Can I apply for any unskilled job in Turkey?
No. Turkish labor law prioritizes local workers first. Foreigners are typically sponsored only for roles that locals cannot fill.
-
Will the employer pay for my visa and flight?
It depends. Some employers cover visa costs, but flight expenses are often the worker’s responsibility.
-
Is Turkish language required?
Basic Turkish helps but is not always mandatory, especially in tourism and agriculture.
