Work Permits in Turkey: What Foreign Professionals Must Know

Working in Turkey without a valid work permit can lead to fines for both the employee and the employer and to problems with future residence. If you plan to take up a job in Turkey, the work permit should come first.

Who applies

In most cases the employer in Turkey applies. The application is filed electronically with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security through its online system, which is connected to e-Devlet. The employee provides personal documents, such as a passport copy, diplomas and a signed employment contract.

If you are still abroad, the process usually starts with an application at the Turkish consulate in your country of residence, and the employer then completes the online application in Turkey. If you already hold a valid residence permit of at least a certain duration, the employer may be able to apply from within Turkey.

Main types of permit

• Fixed-term work permit: the standard permit, linked to a specific employer and job, renewable
• Independent work permit: for qualified professionals who want to work on their own account, subject to conditions
• Indefinite work permit: for foreigners who have lived and worked in Turkey legally for a long time
• Turquoise Card: a special permit for highly qualified people, investors and certain other groups, with additional rights for family members

What the Ministry checks

The authorities consider the labour market, the position, the applicant's qualifications and the employer's situation. Criteria such as the ratio of Turkish to foreign employees, the company's capital or turnover, and the offered salary may apply. Some professions are reserved for Turkish citizens or need special recognition, for example in health or law.

Work permit and residence permit

A valid work permit generally also counts as a residence permit for its duration. You do not usually need a separate residence permit for the same period. Family members, however, apply for their own family residence permits.

Practical tips

• Do not start working before the permit is granted
• Make sure the job title and salary in the contract match the application
• Diplomas may need an apostille and sworn translation
• Apply for renewal in good time before expiry

This article is general information, not legal advice. Rules as of 2026 – always check the current requirements before applying.

How Turkeyy App helps: book a Turkish lawyer in the app to review your job offer and permit options by video call from anywhere in the world, or ask the AI assistant which permit type might fit you.