Work Permits
Work Permits in Türkiye for Foreign Nationals
Foreign nationals who wish to work in Türkiye — whether as employees, executives, or self-employed professionals — must obtain a valid work permit before they can legally start employment. The process involves both the employer and the employee, and applications are handled by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
At Yilmaz Attorneys, we represent both foreign employees and their Turkish employers throughout the work permit process — from initial application to renewals and status changes.
Types of Work Permits
Standard Work Permit (Definite Duration)
The most common type. Issued for a specific employer and position, initially valid for up to one year. Key requirements:
A Turkish employer willing to sponsor the application
The company must meet minimum capital and employee ratio requirements (typically at least 5 Turkish employees per 1 foreign worker)
The position must justify hiring a foreign national
The foreign employee must hold relevant qualifications or experience
Indefinite Work Permit
Available to foreign nationals who have held a legal work permit for at least eight continuous years, or who have legally resided in Türkiye for eight years. This permit is not tied to a specific employer and allows the holder to work in any field.
Independent Work Permit
For self-employed foreign professionals who wish to operate independently in Türkiye — such as consultants, freelancers, or sole traders. Applicants must demonstrate professional qualifications and show that the activity will contribute to the Turkish economy.
Turquoise Card
Türkiye's premium work and residence authorisation, designed to attract highly qualified professionals, investors, scientists, and individuals of strategic importance. The Turquoise Card grants an indefinite right to work and live in Türkiye, and holders may eventually apply for Turkish citizenship. Requirements include exceptional qualifications, significant investment, or recognised expertise in a priority field.
Exemptions from Work Permits
Certain categories of foreign nationals are exempt from work permit requirements, including:
Holders of Turkish citizenship or a valid Turquoise Card
Holders of a valid residence permit obtained through citizenship by investment
Certain diplomatic and consular personnel
Athletes, artists, and academics under specific international agreements
Application Process
Work permit applications in Türkiye follow a two-track process:
Domestic application — The Turkish employer applies through the Ministry of Labour's e-permit system. Simultaneously, the foreign employee applies for a work visa at the Turkish consulate in their home country (if applying from abroad).
In-country application — Foreign nationals already in Türkiye on a valid residence permit of at least six months may apply domestically without leaving the country.
The typical processing time is 30–45 days. The Ministry evaluates the employer's compliance, the employee's qualifications, and the labour market impact before issuing the permit.
Renewals and Extensions
Work permits must be renewed before expiry. Renewals are generally straightforward if the employment relationship continues and the employer remains in compliance. After the first year, permits can be renewed for up to two years, then three years, building toward eligibility for an indefinite permit.
Common Issues We Handle
Applications rejected due to employer ratio or capital requirements — we advise on restructuring
Work permit cancellations following job changes — we manage the transition to a new employer
Appeals against Ministry of Labour refusals
Coordinating work permits with residence permit applications
Advising on the interaction between work permits and citizenship eligibility
Why Choose Yilmaz Attorneys
Work permit applications involve coordination between multiple government agencies, strict documentation requirements, and employer compliance obligations. A single error can result in rejection or delays that disrupt employment plans. Our attorneys handle the full process — application preparation, employer compliance checks, Ministry liaison, and follow-up — so that both employer and employee can focus on their work.
Whether you are a foreign professional relocating to Türkiye or an employer hiring international talent, contact us to discuss your work permit needs.
