Au Pair Visa and Work Permit for Turkey

Being an au pair in Turkey is a popular choice for many seeking a cultural exchange experience. These individuals immerse themselves in Turkish culture, learn the language, and explore the country while providing childcare for their host families. Although the official title of au pair is not yet recognized in Turkey, the government has recently taken a significant step toward formalizing the role of a domestic helper.

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This new policy allows families sponsor and register someone to work in their household as a helper and employee. The primary goal is to ensure that all domestic workers are officially registered and have health insurance provided by the government. This is a major improvement from the past when many nannies and au pairs worked without proper documentation or formal agreements, which often created a lack of trust between both parties.

Now, through the e-government portal, families can easily register their au pairs or nannies as household help and pay their SGK (Social Security Institution) insurance contributions. This provides the au pair or nanny with the same benefits as a Turkish citizen when using state hospitals, ensuring they have access to essential healthcare. You can find more information here about different insurances that you might be interested.

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Upon completing the registration, the au pair or nanny receives an official work permit, allowing them to stay with their host family legally. Depending on their country of origin and passport, some au pairs may initially enter Turkey on a tourist visa. We can assist with an invitation letter to help with their visa application. Once they arrive and settle in with the family, we complete the registration process, ensuring their legal status in Turkey is secured.

WORK PERMIT TYPES GRANTED BY TURKEY

Independent Work Permit

Turquoise Card

This new government initiative marks a pivotal moment for the au pair community in Turkey, bringing a new level of security and legitimacy to the role. By offering a clear path to legal residency and essential healthcare, the policy not only protects the rights of au pairs but also builds a foundation of trust and respect between them and their host families. This formal recognition transforms the experience from an informal arrangement into a more secure and professional one, benefiting all involved and reinforcing Turkey's commitment to cultural exchange programs.