Work Permit

A work permit isn’t a type of residence permit — it’s a separate authorisation, based on its own law, that allows a foreign national to work for an employer in Turkey. The application is usually made by the employer, and an approved work permit can, under certain conditions, also serve in place of a residence permit. Understanding this distinction matters for getting the process right.

Average Processing Time: A few weeks if the application is complete (varies)
Where to Apply: Ministry of Labour and Social Security (via e-Devlet, filed by the employer)
Validity: Depends on the employment contract and permit type

Initial Assessment

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Who It’s For

Foreign nationals who will work for an employer in Turkey

The application is filed by the employer.

Those with a specific professional qualification or expertise

Additional conditions apply to certain professions.

Foreign nationals working as a company partner or manager

Assessed separately under independent work permit rules.

Those working temporarily under a fixed-term project or service

A temporary work permit is issued for these cases.

Required Documents

Passport or travel document

Must have sufficient remaining validity.

Biometric photograph

Taken within the last six months.

Employment contract or assignment letter

Shows the position and terms of employment.

The employer’s trade registry and activity documents

Supports the employer side of the application.

Diploma or professional qualification certificate

Required for certain professions.

Information on the company’s employment structure

Criteria like staff numbers and field of activity are assessed.

Equivalence certificate, if applicable

May be requested for diplomas obtained abroad.

Tax number

Required to register in the application system.

Proof of address

May be requested during the process.

The document list can vary by application reason and personal circumstances; the current requirements of the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management apply.

Process Steps

01

Initial Assessment
Within 1 day

The position, the employer’s status, and the required professional conditions are reviewed together.
02

Document Preparation
A few days

Documents from both the employer and employee side are gathered.
03

Application via e-Devlet
Once documents are complete

The employer submits the application through the system.
04

Review
Varies by case

The Ministry examines the application and the attached documents.
05

Result and Document Issuance
A few weeks (varies)

Once approved, the work permit document is issued.

Not sure whether your situation fits this process?

Initial Assessment

Legal Basis

Law No. 6735 on International Labour Force

The core law governing the procedure and principles for foreign nationals obtaining a work permit in Turkey.

Common Mistakes

Confusing a work permit with a residence permit

They’re separate processes; holding one shouldn’t be assumed to automatically cover the other.

Not completing the application before starting work

Working without a permit can lead to administrative penalties.

Not checking the employer’s company-side conditions

The application can be rejected if criteria such as staff numbers aren’t met.

Neglecting the diploma equivalence process

The application is incomplete without it for certain professions.

Delaying renewal until close to expiry

An overstay creates risk for both work and residence status.

Frequently Asked Questions

It can, under certain conditions; this is clarified during the application.

As a general rule, the employer files the application through e-Devlet.

Independent work permits are a separate category, with different conditions for foreign nationals running their own business or working freelance.

Your residence status tied to the work permit is assessed separately once the permit ends.

No, a change of employer usually requires a new application or notification process.

It depends on your situation; there are different types, including fixed-term, indefinite, and independent work permits.

Yes, for certain professions; which professions this applies to is assessed separately.

Depending on the reason, a new application or an objection may be possible.

Related Services

Short-Term Residence A short-term residence permit is issued to foreign nationals who want to stay in Turkey temporarily for a specific reason — owning property, business dealings, tourism, or a non-formal education programme, for instance. Family Residence Permit A family residence permit is granted to the spouse and children of a Turkish citizen or of a foreign national who holds a valid residence or work permit. Student Residence Permit A student residence permit is granted to foreign nationals enrolled in formal education in Turkey and remains valid for the length of the study. Long-Term Residence Permit A long-term residence permit is granted indefinitely to foreign nationals who have lived in Turkey continuously for at least eight years and meet certain conditions. Residence Permit Rejection and Cancellation Appeal If your residence permit application has been rejected, or a permit you already hold has been cancelled, legal routes are available against that decision.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.