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ARTICLE · 09 JUNE 2026

Türkiye Expands Maternity And Paternity Leave Rights

Türkiye has enacted comprehensive employment law reforms that significantly expand family leave entitlements and introduce strict child protection measures in workplaces where children are regularly present. The changes include extended maternity and paternity leave periods, new foster parent leave provisions, mandatory criminal record checks for employees in child-focused sectors, and financial incentives for hiring individuals raised under state protection.

TurkeyEmployment and HR

Türkiye has introduced significant reforms to family leave entitlements and child protection measures in the workplace. The changes include extended maternity and paternity leave periods, new protections for children in education and care settings, and financial incentives for employers hiring individuals raised under state protection.

Türkiye has introduced a suite of employment reforms affecting family leave and child protection. Most notably, it extends statutory maternity and paternity leave, creates a new leave entitlement for foster parents, and strengthens child-protection rules in sectors where children are regularly present. This article outlines the key changes and highlights the practical steps employers should consider in updating policies, payroll processes and compliance procedures.

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