
- 4 March 2025
A Comprehensive Guide On How to Obtain a Work Permit in Turkey
A Comprehensive Guide On How to Obtain a Work Permit in Turkey
Turkey is a busy career market and emerging economy and is home to career specialists across the globe. As a teacher, as a constructor or as a software expert or in some other profession. Procuring a lawful work license is inevitable. In this article we are going to enlighten you about each and every detail. Conditions for being eligible and documentations required for application for Turkey work license.
Types of Work Permits in Turkey

Turkey offers several types of work permits, each designed for different employment situations.
- The Temporary Work Permit is issued for one year and can be renewed based on continued employment with the same employer.
- The Permanent Work Permit is available for foreigners who have legally worked in Turkey for at least eight years or have lived in the country continuously for this period.
- The Independent Work Permit is granted to foreign entrepreneurs and business owners who wish to establish their own businesses in Turkey.
- Additionally, the Turquoise Card is a special category offering long-term residence and work rights to highly qualified individuals, investors, and researchers.
Who Can Apply for a Work Permit?

To be eligible for permission for Turkey work, applicants must have a confirmed offer or contract for employment in a company in Turkey. Have suitable professional qualifications for occupation, and be in a profession in which employer can substitute foreign for domestic staff. If in Turkey, applicants must have at least a six-month-vatable permission for residency. Applicants who are in foreign nations must submit application at a Turkey-based consulate in home or native country.
Work Permit Application Process
The process for procuring a Turkey work permit is different for applicants in Turkey and for applicants who are abroad.
For those abroad, it is commenced when receiving offer from a sponsor employer in Turkey. The application is to be sent at home country’s Turkish consulate. The employer is required, concurrently, to submit supporting documents at Turkey’s Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MoLSS) online within ten days after submitting at the consulate. The application is taken for consideration at the ministry for no more than 30 days, and upon approval. The work visa is stamped in passport and the individual may travel to Turkey and report for work.
For those in Turkey, there must be a residency period of no less than six months. The employer applies for the work permit at the MoLSS and is obligated to submit supporting documents later, in no more than six days. The application is appraised at the ministry and approval is issued in some 30 days. The employer is issued the work permit card at his or her enrolled address upon approval.
Required Documents for Work Permit Application

Both the employer and candidate must submit certain documents in support of application for a work permit. The candidate must submit copy of passport, four photos for fingerprints, offer letter or employment contract. Profession or occupation certificate for education, and experience certificate if applicable. A recent residence permit is applicable if the candidate is in Turkey. The employer must submit company information for enrollment, financial statement. Profession or commercial activity certificate, and reasons for recruiting a foreign worker.
Processing Time and Fees
Typically, work permit applications are approved in 4-6 weeks. The cost is subject to type and period but is typically in the form of 1,200-1,500 TL for a one-year work permit.
Renewal and Extensions
If you wish to remain in Turkey as employees, at least 60 days before your permission to work is close to expiration, you need to renew. The renew application includes submitting a latest contract of employment. Providing supporting documents if required, and paying renewing fees. The permission to work is extended for a period not longer than two years upon approval and for renewing in the future for a period not longer than three years.
Work Permit Restrictions and Exemptions
Foreigners cannot hold some professions like being a dentist, pharmacist, or lawyer without receiving a special permission. Moreover, Some professions are prohibited and have foreign employees as a percentage based on some restrictions for each company. Furthermore, Some exceptions are available, though, like foreign spouses who are married to Turks and can easily receive approval.
A work permit is mandatory for lawful work in Turkey and is applied for based on and in whichever location application is being undertaken, in Turkey or abroad. Employer and employer must submit supporting documents and application time is typically between 4 and 6 weeks. Also, Reinstatement must be applied for before expiration in order to continue in service.
Securing a work permit in Turkey is a structured process, but with the right preparation and employer support, it can be a smooth journey. Lastly, Understanding the requirements and staying updated on legal regulations will ensure you work in Turkey without complications.