Do you want to duty in a best country and earn a best income?
In 2025, Turkey needs more skilled truck drivers workers. The transport and logistics companies in Turkey is growing quickly. Many industries are now offering international drivers and are ready to give best visa sponsorship.
From big cities like Istanbul and Bursa to busy ports like Mersin, some places in Turkey need heavy vehicle drivers. This simple guide will help you learn the duties, visa process, salary, and life in Turkey as a truck driver worker.
Why Choose Turkey for Truck Driving Jobs?
Strong Logistics Industry
Turkey is a best location between Europe and Asia. This makes it a major transport route for bests. The logistics companies is expected to grow by over 11 billion USD between 2023 and 2028. This means many duties openings for drivers workers and other.
Jobs With Sponsorship
Some Turkish transport industries are seeking for foreign drivers. They offer visa sponsorship, which supports you move and duty legally in Turkey.
New Life Experience
Working in Turkey lets you enjoy new culture, best food, and good places. It’s a best place to live and duty for foreigners.
How To Apply for a Truck Driver Job in Turkey
Ready Your Documents
To apply, you need the following:
- Resume (CV): Show your driving work experience. Write what kind of trucks you drive (rigid, articulated, tanker or other Trucks).
- Passport: It should be valid for at least 6 more months.
- Police Clearance: You must have a clean criminal record.
- Driving Licenses:
- Your home country’s heavy vehicle license.
- International Driving Permit (IDP) – lets you drive in Turkey for 6 months.
- Medical Certificate: Show you are fit to drive (eyesight and hearing).
- Extra Certifications: If you have a certificate to carry dangerous goods (ADR license), add that too.
Find Jobs With Visa Sponsorship
Use these platforms to search for truck driver jobs in Turkey:
- Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor: Search using words like “truck driver visa sponsorship Turkey” or “HGV driver Turkey”.
- Logistics Job Sites: Look for transport-specific websites.
- Recruitment Agencies: Some Turkish agencies help foreign truck drivers find jobs.
- Company Websites: Visit websites of big logistics companies like:
- Arkas Logistics
- Ekol Logistics
- Horoz Logistics
- Borusan Logistics
Tip: Some companies also post job videos or pictures. These are good signs they are real and active.
Apply for Visa and Work Permit
You must first get a job offer from a Turkish company. Only then can you apply for a work visa.
Visa Application Process:
- You: Apply for a visa at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- Employer: Uses your visa application number to apply for your work permit in Turkey.
Important Rule: Turkish companies must hire 5 local workers for every 1 foreign worker. Good companies already follow this rule.
Processing Time:
It takes about 30 days after both your and your employer’s documents are complete.
Permit Duration:
The first work permit is for 1 year. It can be extended:
- 2 more years (first extension)
- Then 3 years
After 8 years, you may get a permanent work permit.
How Much Can a Truck Driver Earn in Turkey?
Average Truck Driver Salary in Turkey (2025):
- TRY 594,799 per year (about TRY 286 per hour).
- New drivers: Around TRY 444,866.
- Experienced drivers: Up to TRY 735,103.
This pay is more than twice Turkey’s minimum wage for skilled jobs.
Companies must register you for Social Security (SGK) within 30 days. This gives you healthcare and social benefits.
Cost of Living for Truck Drivers in Turkey
- Rent: Usually cheaper than Western countries. Some companies give free housing for drivers.
- Food and Utilities: Daily costs are low.
- Per Diem: For long trips, many companies give you extra money for food and travel.
Work Conditions and Driver Rights
- Working Hours: 45 hours a week.
- Rest Periods: Must follow international driving rules.
- Paid Leave: You get annual leave after 1 year.
- Safety: Truck checks and road safety are important.
- Healthcare: Covered by the public system through SGK.
Driving License Rules in Turkey
- You can use your IDP for 6 months.
- After 6 months, you must convert your foreign license to a Turkish one.
To convert your license:
- Medical test
- Translate and notarize your home license
- Get a no-crime certificate
- Pay fees (around TRY 3200)
- Submit everything at the Civil Registry Office (Nüfus)
Some drivers may also need to take a test.
Best Cities for Truck Driving Jobs in Turkey
- Istanbul: Most jobs, especially for international transport.
- Ankara: Central hub for local delivery.
- Izmir: Large port city.
- Mersin: Busy sea port with high driver demand.
- Bursa: Big manufacturing area.
- Gaziantep: Fast-growing industrial area near the Middle East.
Helpful Tips for Foreign Truck Drivers
- Language: English helps, but learn basic Turkish for directions and work talk.
- Safety: Always follow road rules.
- Be Flexible: Roads, traffic, and work styles can be different.
- Stay Professional: Be on time and communicate clearly.
- Join Driver Groups: Talk to other foreign drivers for advice.
FAQs
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What do I need to get a truck driver visa in Turkey?
Valid passport, job offer, clean record, and your driving license. The employer will help with the permit.
-
Where to find sponsored truck driver jobs in Istanbul?
Search job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, or go directly to transport company websites.
-
Is it easy to get a truck driving job with sponsorship?
If you have at least 2 years of experience and a clean record, yes. Many companies are hiring.
-
How much can I earn?
Around TRY 594,799 per year on average. Entry-level is TRY 444,866. Senior drivers can earn TRY 735,103.
-
How to convert my driving license in Turkey?
Use IDP for 6 months. Then submit your medical, translated license, fees, and documents to the Nüfus office.
Start Your New Career in Turkey
Truck driver jobs in Turkey with visa sponsorship are a great way to start a new life. You get:
- A good salary
- A legal job with healthcare
- A chance to live in a beautiful country
Prepare your documents, apply smartly, and start driving towards success in Turkey in 2025!