Foreigners who wish to work legally in Türkiye are required to obtain a work permit issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. This permit not only grants the right to work but also serves as a residence authorization in many cases. Working without a valid permit is illegal and subject to penalties. This article outlines the main types of work permits, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.

Types of Work Permits in Türkiye

Türkiye provides several types of work permits under Law No. 6735 on the International Labor Force. These include definite-term, permanent, independent permits, and the Turquoise Card.

Definite-Term (Temporary) Work Permit

A definite or temporary work permit is typically issued for up to one year during the first application. It is valid only for employment with a specific employer at a designated workplace or within a certain line of business. The duration of the permit cannot exceed the employment or service contract period.

Extension applications may be submitted before the permit expires. If approved, the permit can be extended for up to two years for the first renewal, and up to three years for subsequent renewals, under the same employer. Changing employers requires a new application process.

Permanent Work Permit

Foreigners who have resided in Türkiye legally for at least eight years or held a valid work permit for the same duration can apply for a permanent work permit. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval.

Holders of permanent work permits enjoy many of the rights granted to Turkish citizens, including access to social security and other civil benefits, except for rights such as voting, public office, and mandatory military service. These permits are subject to renewal every five years, and renewal applications must be submitted within six months before the expiration date.

Independent Work Permit

An independent work permit allows foreigners to work in Türkiye on their own behalf without being tied to a specific employer. It is generally granted for a limited duration.

Approval is based on the individual's qualifications, such as education, professional experience, contributions to science or technology, investment impact, and other criteria defined by the Ministry and the International Labor Force Advisory Board.

Turquoise Card

The Turquoise Card is designed for highly qualified foreigners who contribute significantly to Türkiye’s economy, science, technology, or employment. It provides rights equivalent to a permanent work permit.

Initially granted with a three-year transition period, the card becomes indefinite if the holder applies for permanent status before the transition period expires. The card also extends residency rights to the spouse and dependent children of the holder. Foreigners under temporary protection are not eligible for this program.

Work Permit Application Process

Work permit applications can be submitted either from within Türkiye or from abroad. All applications must be made through the Ministry’s E-Permit System: https://ecalismaizni.csgb.gov.tr/eizin

Domestic Applications

Foreigners already residing in Türkiye must have a residence permit valid for at least six months to apply. The employer is responsible for initiating the application.

Required Documents

1. A signed employment contract
2. A copy of the passport (with translation if needed)
3. Educational diploma or temporary graduation certificate (except for domestic services, where a school declaration suffices)
4. Turkish Trade Registry Gazette showing recent capital and partnership structure
5. Latest balance sheet and profit/loss statement approved by tax authorities or a certified public accountant

Applications are not accepted if the passport expires within 60 days.

Applications from Abroad

Foreigners outside Türkiye must apply through a Turkish embassy or consulate in their country of residence. Upon application, they receive a 16-digit reference number, which is then used by the employer to complete the process through the E-Permit System.

If approved, the foreigner must enter Türkiye and begin work within one month of arrival, and no later than six months after the work permit start date. Failure to do so will result in cancellation of the permit.

Extension of Work Permits

Permit renewal applications must be submitted no earlier than 60 days and no later than the expiration date of the current permit. If the extension is granted, the work permit will be valid for up to two years on the first extension and up to three years on subsequent ones, under the same employer.

A foreigner can continue working during the extension review period, for up to 90 days past the permit's expiration, provided the job and employer remain the same.

Review and Approval Process

Applications are typically reviewed within 30 days, provided all documents are complete. The countdown starts from the date of online submission or the date additional information is submitted (if requested).

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a work permit in Türkiye involves specific legal steps and documentation. Whether you're applying for the first time or seeking to extend or upgrade your permit type, understanding these processes ensures compliance and improves your chances of approval.