Fundamental Legal Framework Regarding Child Labour, Night Work, and Employment in Underground Workplaces in accordance with Law No. 4857

Rules on Employing Children and Young Workers under Turkish Labour Law

According to the Turkish Labour Law No. 4857, child labour is permitted only under strict legal conditions, limited durations, and close regulatory supervision. The legislation is designed to protect the healthy development, education rights, and safe working conditions of children and young workers. This article outlines critical issues such as the prohibition of child labour, working hours, light work, and bans on night and underground work.

Employment of Children in Workplaces in Türkiye: Age and Education Requirements

In Türkiye, employing children under the age of 15 is generally prohibited. However, certain exceptions apply:

  • Children who are at least 14 years old and have completed compulsory primary education may be employed in light work that does not interfere with their schooling.
  • Children under 14 years of age may only work in artistic, cultural, or advertising activities, provided that there is a written contract and specific official authorization.

Fields of Employment for Young Workers in Türkiye

Young workers aged 15 to 18 may be employed under special regulations, provided the job:

  • Does not endanger their health or safety,
  • Does not hinder their psychological development, and
  • Does not interfere with their education.

The specific list of eligible jobs and working conditions is set forth by the relevant Ministries through a dedicated regulation.

Working Hours for Children in Türkiye

For children not enrolled in formal education:

  • Maximum 7 hours per day,
  • Maximum 35 hours per week,
  • May be extended to 8 hours/day and 40 hours/week for those aged 15 and above.

For children involved in artistic, cultural, or advertising activities:

  • Maximum 5 hours per day,
  • Maximum 30 hours per week.

For school-going children during the academic year:

  • Maximum 2 hours per day,
  • Maximum 10 hours per week.

During school holidays, the above maximum limits apply depending on the activity.

Prohibition on Underground and Underwater Work in Türkiye

The following groups are strictly prohibited from working in underground or underwater operations such as mining, tunnels, sewer systems, and cable installation:

  • All males under the age of 18,
  • All females, regardless of age.

Prohibition on Night Work in Türkiye

Children and young workers under the age of 18 are prohibited from working at night in industrial jobs. This regulation aims to protect their biological rhythms and educational progress.

Night work for female workers over 18 is regulated by a specific regulation issued with the opinion of the Ministry of Health.

Additional Details Regulated by Ministerial Decrees

In relation to children employed in artistic, cultural, or advertising activities, the following issues are regulated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, in consultation with the relevant Ministries:

  • Permissible age groups for each type of activity,
  • Rest periods and working environment,
  • Principles of wage payment.

Q&A Summary

  1. At what age is employment completely prohibited?
    Children under 15 may not be employed, in general.
  2. Under what condition can a 14-year-old work?
    If they have completed compulsory education and are employed in light work.
  3. How many hours can school-going children work per day?
    A maximum of 2 hours daily and 10 hours per week.
  4. What is the weekly working hour limit for 15-year-old children?
    Up to 40 hours.
  5. In which jobs are young workers not allowed to work?
    Jobs harmful to health, education, or psychological development.
  6. Can children work in underground operations?
    No, boys under 18 and all females are prohibited from such work.
  7. Are children allowed to work at night?
    No, night work is forbidden for those under 18.
  8. Is child employment allowed in the advertising sector?
    Yes, with a written contract and official approval.
  9. Who determines working hours and conditions?
    The Ministry of Labour, in consultation with other relevant ministries.
  10. What applies to women working at night?
    They must be over 18 and meet the conditions set forth in a specific regulation.


Legal Notice: The information in this article is intended for information purposes only. It is not intended for professional information purposes specific to a person or an institution. Every institution has different requirements because of its own circumstances even though they bear a resemblance to each other. Consequently, it is your interest to consult on an expert before taking a decision based on information stated in this article and putting into practice. Neither Karen Audit nor related person or institutions are not responsible for any damages or losses that might occur in consequence of the use of the information in this article by private or formal, real or legal person and institutions.