Obtaining a Work Permit
Work Permits for Foreigners in Turkey: Procedures & Conditions (2025 Update)
In Turkey, foreigners must obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security to be legally employed. This permit also grants residence rights linked to employment. Unauthorized work is illegal and subject to heavy fines for both the foreign worker and the employer.
Types of Work Permits
- Fixed-Term Work Permit
- Typically granted for the first application, limited to 1 year and tied to a specific employer and position.
- Extensions: Up to 2 years (first renewal) and 3 years (subsequent renewals). Switching to a new employer requires a new application.
- Indefinite Work Permit
- Granted to foreigners with 8 years of continuous legal work in Turkey or those holding a long-term residence permit.
- Holders enjoy the same rights as Turkish citizens (excluding certain public sector roles), while keeping social security obligations.
- Independent Work Permit
- For self-employed professionals who meet additional legal requirements.
- Evaluation considers education, professional experience, contribution to science/technology, and potential impact on Turkey’s economy and employment.
Application Process
All applications are submitted online by employers through the e-Permit system: https://ecalismaizni.csgb.gov.tr.
Domestic Applications
- Available if the foreigner has a valid residence permit of at least 6 months (excluding student permits).
- Key documents:
- Signed employment contract
- Passport copy & biometric photo
- Diploma (translated & notarized)
- Employer’s recent balance sheet & Trade Registry Gazette records
Abroad Applications
- Initiated at a Turkish embassy/consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.
- Employer in Turkey completes the process online using a 16-digit reference number provided by the consulate.
- Once approved, the foreigner must:
- Register with the Address Registration System within 20 business days of entry
- Be registered with SGK for social security coverage
Extensions
- Must be filed within 60 days before expiration (and before the permit expires).
- If submitted on time, the foreigner may continue working at the same employer for up to 90 days while awaiting results.
Special Schemes for Qualified Foreigners & Investors
- Turquoise Card
- Designed to attract highly qualified talent.
- Eligible applicants: Individuals with advanced education, professional expertise, or significant contributions in science, technology, investment, exports, or employment.
- Provides permanent work authorization (first 3 years considered a transition period). Includes residence rights for spouse and dependents.
- Special Status for Qualified Foreign Direct Investments (FDI)
- Certain foreign investments are designated as Qualified Investments, easing procedures for employing foreign key personnel.
- 2025 Criteria (subject to annual adjustment):
- Foreign equity ≥ 12.5M TL AND annual turnover ≥ 940M TL
- Foreign equity ≥ 12.5M TL AND exports ≥ USD 1M
- Foreign equity ≥ 12.5M TL AND at least 250 SGK-registered employees
- Planned fixed investment ≥ 312M TL
- Parent company has FDI in at least one additional country
Key Personnel may include shareholders, board members, general managers, or executives with critical technical/management knowledge.
✅ With these regulations, Turkey offers a structured yet flexible system for foreign professionals, investors, and multinational companies seeking to operate in the country.