Work Permit in Turkey
How to Get a Work Permit in Turkey
Work Permits in the Republic of Turkey
A work permit is a mandatory document for any foreigner wishing to work in Turkey. Issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, work permits grant foreigners the legal right to work and reside in Turkey. Working without a valid work permit is illegal and can result in severe penalties. This guide explains the different types of work permits, the application process, and essential details to ensure compliance with Turkish law.
Types of Work Permits in Turkey
Temporary Work Permit
- The first work permit can be granted for up to one year.
- Tied to a specific employer, workplace, or position within the same industry.
- Cannot exceed the employment contract term.
Permanent Work Permit
- Available to foreigners who have held a legal work permit for at least eight years or possess a long-term residence permit.
- Provides rights similar to those of Turkish citizens, except for certain social security rights.
Independent Work Permit
- Available for professionals meeting specific criteria under Turkish law.
- Requires evaluation based on education, experience, and potential economic contribution to Turkey.
How to Apply for a Work Permit in Turkey
Work permit applications are made through the E-Permit System (e-Permit Website), and the requirements differ depending on whether the application is domestic or international.
1. Domestic Applications
Foreigners already residing in Turkey need to apply for a work permit through their employer. The foreigner must have a valid residence permit for at least six months.
Required Documents:
- Employment contract signed by the employer and foreigner.
- Copy of the foreigner’s passport (translated if not in the Latin alphabet).
- Certified diploma or temporary graduation certificate.
- Turkish Trade Registry Gazette showing the organization’s latest structure.
- Certified balance sheet and profit/loss statement.
Important Note: Work permits cannot be issued if the passport expires within 60 days.
2. International Applications
Foreigners must apply through Turkish embassies or consulates in their home country or legal residence. A 16-digit reference number is provided upon application and must be used to complete the process through the E-Permit System.
Key Points:
- Foreigners must begin work within one month of entering Turkey or within six months of the work permit’s start date.
- Failure to start work within the specified time frame results in permit revocation.
3. Work Permit Extension
- Applications for extension must be submitted 60 days before the permit expires.
- Extensions are valid for up to two years for the first renewal and three years for subsequent renewals with the same employer.
- Foreigners with a pending extension can continue working for up to 90 days after the original permit expires.
Review of Work Permit Applications
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security reviews all applications within 30 days, provided the required documents are complete.
Special Circumstances for Work Permits
Turquoise Card
The Turquoise Card grants indefinite work and residence rights in Turkey to qualified foreigners and their families. Initially issued with a three-year transition period, the card is available to:
- Individuals with internationally recognized academic work.
- Experts in strategic fields (science, industry, and technology).
- Investors contributing to the Turkish economy.
Foreign Key Personnel
Companies with foreign direct investment can employ foreigners as key personnel. These employees must meet specific criteria and hold senior management roles.
Required Documents for Key Personnel:
- Signature circulars and board resolutions.
- Assignment letters from the parent company.
- Relevant bank documentation proving export revenues.
Liaison Offices
Liaison offices can employ one foreign representative authorized by the parent company. Proof of transferring at least $200,000 USD is required.
General Evaluation Criteria for Work Permits
Employment Criterion:
- A minimum of five Turkish citizens must be employed for each foreign employee (5:1 Rule).
- This requirement is waived for companies with net sales of 50 million TL or more.
Financial Adequacy Criterion:
- For newly established businesses, paid-in capital must be at least 500,000 TL.
- Existing businesses must meet one of these conditions:
- Paid-in capital of at least 500,000 TL,
- Net sales of at least 8 million TL,
- Exports worth at least 150,000 USD.
Salary Criterion:
- Salaries for foreign employees must meet specific multiples of the minimum wage based on the employee’s position:
- 5 times the minimum wage for senior executives and pilots.
- 4 times the minimum wage for engineers and architects.
- 3 times the minimum wage for managerial roles.
- 2 times the minimum wage for skilled workers.
- Equal to the minimum wage for domestic workers.
- Salaries for foreign employees must meet specific multiples of the minimum wage based on the employee’s position:
Exemptions:
- Foreigners residing in Turkey for at least three years may be exempt from some criteria, excluding student residence permits.
Sector-Specific Work Permit Requirements
Home Services:
- Work permits are only granted for elderly, sick, or child care.
Healthcare Sector:
- Foreign health professionals must obtain pre-approval from the relevant health directorates.
Tourism Sector:
- Employers must have a Tourism Operation Certificate.
Aviation Sector:
- Foreign pilots must provide a validated pilot license and a certificate from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
Engineering and Architecture:
- Foreign engineers and architects must provide diploma equivalency certificates.
Direct Foreign Investments:
- Companies must provide proof of export revenues, management roles, and bank documentation to qualify.