Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, ADASO Secretary General Bora Kocaman reported that the legislation which regulates the employment of Syrian refugees entered into effect in January and it is their aim to inform establishment on this matter.

Ministry of Labor and Social Security Foreign Nationals Department Director Muharrem Gözüküçük provided information on employment of Syrian refugees, penalties for off record economy, permit applications for employment of foreign nationals under temporary asylum as well as various recent developments.

Stating that those wanting to employ Syrian refugees must apply for a work permit, Gözüküçük reported that there would be penalties even if the individuals were otherwise properly insured and taxed for employment as per social security protocols.

Reporting that there are approximately 3 million Syrians in Turkey and around 200,000 in Adana, Gözüküçük stated that foreign nationals under temporary asylum cannot be employed without a work permit and cannot be employed in establishments so as to exceed 10% of all Turkish employees; that they are focused on maintaining job market harmony.

Gözüküçük stated that foreign nationals under temporary asylum can apply for work permits after 6 months of temporary asylum, that applications would be made by employers online via e-Devlet.