The official document that enables a foreigner to work legally in Turkey is referred to as a work permit. In contrast, a residence permit is a legal document that grants a foreigner the right to reside in Turkey for a predetermined amount of time legally. A residence permit in Turkey, which the Directorate General of Migration Management issues, differs from a work permit because it gives the right to live in the country instead of working. In this article, we will delve into the essential aspects of both work permit and residence permit in Turkey.
Obtaining a Work Permit
There are several benefits of obtaining a work permit in Turkey, such as job security, access to employment benefits, and legal employment. Turkey provides different work permit types, which are Independent, Turquoise card, long-term, and short-term work permits. The kind of work permit and documents needed to get it can vary depending on the applicants qualifications, employment status, and expected length of stay in Turkey.
Generally, one must have a job offer from a Turkish employer to apply for a work permit in Turkey. It is also crucial to gather all the documentation needed for the application process. Depending on the type of work permit, these requirements may vary. Still, in general, a copy of the work permit application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photo, proof of health insurance, and a criminal record are required for obtaining a work permit.
Work Permit Application and Procedure
The steps in the work permit application process vary depending on the kind of permit and the location of the application for foreign nationals. Applicants from abroad must apply at the Turkish consulate for a work visa. The foreign applicant must apply online for a work permit using the reference number provided within ten working days of using the system. Every required document is then mailed or delivered in person to the Ministry within six business days.
In domestic applications, foreigners do not need to apply to the Turkish government to get a work permit. However, their residence permit must be in effect for at least six months before the application. If the foreigners have a six-month residence permit, the employer must submit an online application for approval as well. After the employer's online application, all necessary documents must be sent to the Ministry by mail or in person within six working days.
To successfully apply for a work permit in Turkey, there are required documents, which are stated below.
- A valid passport that remains valid at least 60 days after the intended work permit period expires,
- A notarized and authenticated copy of the professional qualifications or diploma,
- An official and notarized copy of the criminal history record,
- A full-scope health insurance policy for the time spent in Turkey,
- A Turkish residential address,
- A job offer from a Turkish employer
To apply for a work permit, it is recommended to get a legal consultancy from an experienced Turkish work permit lawyer. Since the application process can be time-consuming and challenging, working with a Turkish law firm can help to have a smooth application process. At our Turkish lawyer firm, Istanbul Lawyer Firm, with our skilled and English-speaking lawyers in Turkey, we provide you with legal assistance in the fields of work permits and residence permits. By preparing the necessary documents, making applications, and maintaining correspondence, we follow the entire process legally and carefully. For more information about work permits and residence permits, you can contact us.
Obtaining a Residence/Residence Permit
Obtaining a residence permit is crucial for foreigners who intend to stay in the country for an extended period for various reasons such as employment, education, or other personal reasons. When they have a residence permit, foreigners can live legally in Turkey. Yet, getting one has certain requirements, and since Turkey offers various types of residence permits, each has specific requirements. However, in general, obtaining a residence permit in Turkey includes the following.
- Collecting the necessary documents, which are a valid passport, an address in Turkey, health insurance, financial resources, and other required documents for the type of residence permit that is applied for.
- Making online applications for residence permits in The Directorate General of Migration Management. However, keep in mind that initial applications must be submitted in person to the Migration Office together with all the necessary documents.
- After submitting the online appointment, you should attend the meeting.
- Paying the residence permit application fee.
To have a smooth residence permit process, it is better to get help from a residence permit lawyer. At Istanbul Lawyer Firm, we provide legal consultancy in both work permit and residence permit fields. We can guide you through every step, answering every question regarding the application procedure. For more information about work permit and residence permit, you can contact our Turkish lawyer firm if you need to consult an Istanbul law firm.
Residence Permit Types
The types of residence permits in Turkey are stated below.
- Short-Term Residence Permit
- Family Residence Permit
- Student Residence Permit
- Long-Term Residence Permit
- Humanitarian Residence Permit
How to Get a Work Permit?
Within the scope of work permit and residence permit, whether the intention is to work, study, or stay in Turkey for an extended period, getting both a work permit and a residence permit is necessary for various reasons. A work permit and residence permit are essential for stability, legal compliance, and access to opportunities and services in Turkey. However, getting a work permit and residence permit in Turkey can be challenging for foreigners who need to learn more about their processes. Besides, it is significant to keep in mind that specific requirements and procedures of the different types of work permit and residence permit may change. For this reason, checking the official websites of the relevant Turkish government bodies or consulting with legal experts for the most accurate information helps to achieve a problem-free and successful process.
