Work Permit for Foreigners in Turkey

A legal document that allows foreigners to apply for and work in legal employment is called a work permit in Turkey. In this field, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, or other relevant authorities, grants a work permit depending on the requested work permit.

Let’s dive into the topic of work permits in Turkey to understand this field better. 

Types of Work Permits in Turkey 

Within the scope of work permits in Turkey, the nation offers four types of permits for foreigners, which are indefinite, temporary, Turquoise Card, and independent. The kind of work permit required varies according to the qualifications of applicants, employment conditions, and expected duration of stay in Turkey. 

It is advised to contact the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security or the Turkish embassy or consulate for further information on current and accurate information about work permits. 

Indefinite

  • It is generally for foreigners with a long-term residence permit or a legal work permit for at least eight years.
  • Applicants should have a clean criminal record and not pose a security threat.
  • For this type of work permit, foreigners should be able to support themselves and any dependents without social assistance.

     

    Temporary 

    • It enables foreigners to work legally in the country for a specific period, ranging from a few months to a year, depending on the type of employment and the particular requirements.
    • The temporary work permit in Turkey should be renewed at least a month before it expires if the foreign worker continues to meet the conditions and their employment situation stays the same.

       

      Turquoise Card 

      • It provides foreigners who meet certain criteria and can benefit Turkey in various ways with indefinite employment and residence permits. 
      • It provides indefinite residence rights to the foreign national's relatives as well.
      • The Turquoise Card offers access to the Turkish social security system and healthcare.
      • This kind of work permit in Turkey can be renewed occasionally as long as the foreigners meet the eligibility requirements.

         

        Independent 

        • This work permit is given for a specific period.
        • It is for foreigners who want to run their businesses, engage in self-employment, or freelance in Turkey legally.
        • The educational background and professional experience of applicant and the effects of his/her investment or activities on the economy of Turkey are considered. 

           

          Preliminary Requirements for Work Permit in Turkey 

          Some specific requirements should be considered before applying for a work permit in Turkey. The requirements for a work permit in Turkey can change depending on the type of work permit. Yet, the common requirements for all work permit types are explained below. 

          • Foreigners applying for a work permit should have a job offer from a Turkish business in advance.
          • Applicants should have some valid documents before application. Such documents are a passport, criminal record, health insurance coverage, proof of financial means, and accommodation in Turkey. 
          • Foreigners should meet specific eligibility requirements, which may include having the required training, expertise, or job-related skills.

             

            Application Process for Work Permit in Turkey 

            The application process for a work permit in Turkey may vary depending on the type of work permit and the location of foreigners applying. For applications from abroad, foreigners must submit a work visa application at the Turkish consulate. The foreigner should use the reference number given to apply online for a work permit in Turkey within ten working days through the system. All needed documents are delivered to the Ministry in person or by mail within six business days.

            For domestic applications, to obtain a work permit in Turkey, foreigners residing in Turkey do not need to apply to the Turkish government. Yet, they must have a valid residence permit for at least six months to obtain it. Also, the employer must submit an online application for approval for the foreign employees if they are a resident with a six-month residence permit. All required documents should be delivered to the Ministry in person or by mail within six working days as a result of the employer's online application.

            Required Documents for The Application Process 

            The common necessary documents for the application process are a valid passport, a passport-sized photo, a job offer, health insurance coverage and accommodation in Turkey, a criminal record, a Tax Identification Number, and work permit application forms. 

            Processing and Approval of Work Permits in Turkey 

            During the processing and approval of a work permit in Turkey, several factors are considered, like the type of the work permit or evaluation criteria. 

            The first step in the application procedure is to submit all the required documentation. Then, they are evaluated and checked by the Turkish authorities. Financial stability, educational and professional qualifications, and work experience are checked during the evaluation process. 

            To get more information about the application process and the approval of it, you can consult a lawyer in Turkey. Our Turkish lawyer firm, Istanbul Lawyer Firm can provide you with legal assistance in this field with our English-speaking lawyers in Turkey.

            You can reach our previous article from https://istanbullawyerfirm.com/blog/foreigners-inheritance-rights-in-turkey