Turkey neighborhood watch recruitment regulations

New regulations for the recruitment of neighborhood watchmen (çarşı ve mahalle bekçisi) in Turkey were established following updates published in the Official Gazette in April 2026. These officers serve as support for the police force, primarily focusing on maintaining public order and preventing theft during night hours.

Candidate requirements include Turkish citizenship, a high school diploma or equivalent, and completion of military service for male applicants. Age limits require candidates to be at least 18 and not yet 31 as of January 1 of the exam year. Additionally, applicants must have resided in their target province for at least one year and meet specific health and criminal record standards.

Standard working hours are set at 40 hours per week, though this may be extended to 56 hours with gubernatorial approval during personnel shortages or high-intensity periods. As of October 2026, the official recruitment schedule, specific quotas, and application dates remain pending, awaiting formal announcement from the General Directorate of Security and the Police Academy.