Foreign nationals who plan to live or work in Turkey must obtain a valid residence permit or work permit. While a residence permit allows individuals to live in Turkey for extended periods, a work permit enables them to legally work in the country. At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our expert immigration attorneys help clients navigate both processes with ease and full legal compliance.
Obtaining a Work Permit in Turkey
Whether you're an employee, entrepreneur, or investor, securing a work permit in Turkey is essential to work legally. The permit types include:
- Short-term work permit
- Long-term work permit
- Independent work permit
- Turquoise Card
To apply, foreign nationals typically need a confirmed job offer, and employers are required to initiate the application process. Required documents include a valid passport, employment contract, health insurance, and educational or professional certificates.
Work Permit Application Process
Applicants from abroad must apply through the Turkish consulate. After receiving a reference number, the employer must complete an online application within 10 working days. All documents must then be submitted to the Ministry of Labor within 6 working days.
For applicants already in Turkey with a valid residence permit (minimum 6 months), a domestic application is possible. In this case, the employer applies online directly to the Ministry of Labor.
Documents Required for Work Permits
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least 60 days beyond the work permit period)
- Diploma or professional qualification (notarized copy)
- Clean criminal record
- Health insurance policy
- Residential address in Turkey
- Employer’s offer letter or contract
We highly recommend consulting a Turkish work permit lawyer for application preparation and follow-up.
Obtaining a Residence Permit in Turkey
A residence permit is mandatory for stays exceeding 90 days. Common reasons include tourism, study, family reunification, or business purposes. The process includes:
- Filing an online application via the Directorate General of Migration Management
- Submitting required documents: passport, health insurance, address declaration, and proof of financial means
- Attending the appointment at the Migration Office
- Paying residence permit fees
Our residence permit lawyers offer end-to-end legal support throughout this procedure.
Types of Residence Permits in Turkey
- Short-Term Residence Permit
- Family Residence Permit
- Student Residence Permit
- Long-Term Residence Permit
- Humanitarian Residence Permit
Legal Consultancy for Foreign Nationals
Our law firm offers professional legal assistance in both work and residence permit applications. We help prepare complete document sets, monitor deadlines, and handle appeals for rejected applications. Our bilingual team ensures seamless communication for our international clients.
