Turkey Opens Major Opportunities for Indonesian Migrant Workers, Tourism Sector Becomes the Mainstay
Fethiye – Turkey is opening significant opportunities for Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI), especially in the tourism sector and its supporting industries. This was highlighted during the working visit of Indonesia’s Ambassador to Turkey, Achmad Rizal Purnama, to Fethiye on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
During the visit, the Indonesian Ambassador pointed out the high demand for workers in various sectors, including hospitality, manufacturing, construction, services, and tourism support industries. These opportunities are expected to continue growing in line with the rapid expansion of Turkey’s tourism industry.
The Indonesian Ambassador met with UÄŸur SerindaÄŸ, CEO of Orka Sunlife Resort Hotel, and Ferhat Åžahin, CEO of Working Global, to discuss expanding the placement of Indonesian workers through legal and safe channels. Both parties expressed interest in increasing the number of Indonesian workers.
“We are very impressed with the performance of Indonesian workers and hope to receive even more workers from Indonesia next year,” said UÄŸur SerindaÄŸ on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
The hospitality sector has become one of the main entry points for Indonesian workers into Turkey. Indonesian workers are in high demand for positions such as housekeeping, spa therapist, waiter or waitress, kitchen worker, cleaning service, and other kitchen and hotel staff.
Tourist cities such as Fethiye, Antalya, MuÄŸla, Bodrum, and Istanbul have become major hubs for foreign labor demand, including from Indonesia. The high influx of tourists is driving the need for professional and well-trained workers.
In 2026, the Indonesian Embassy in Ankara has verified a labor demand for 32,165 Indonesian workers across various sectors. Although opportunities are wide open, the Indonesian Ambassador emphasized the importance of placement through official channels.
“These opportunities must be utilized with hard work, discipline, and professionalism, and through legal mechanisms so that worker protection remains guaranteed. The Turkish Government also provides employment rights guarantees for legally employed foreign workers,” said Ambassador Rizal.
“The Indonesian Embassy in Ankara urges prospective PMI to avoid non-procedural channels. In addition, make use of online verification through the Peduli WNI Portal.”
In 2025, Turkey recorded 52.77 million tourists with tourism revenue reaching USD 61.1 billion. The data shows a significant upward trend.
According to KP2MI data, the placement of Indonesian workers to Turkey in 2025 increased by 151.36% compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, 13,781 Indonesian citizens are recorded as having active work permits in Turkey.
