Work visas and permits in Turkey (Türkiye) : An employer’s guide

Hiring in Turkey (Türkiye)? Whether you’re planning to expand your team or relocate existing employees, compliance with immigration laws and employment regulations is essential. Every country has its own rules, and Turkey is no exception. Understanding how to navigate permits, visas, and local labor laws will help your company avoid penalties and ensure a smooth onboarding process for foreign employees.

In this guide, we’ll explain who is eligible to work in Turkey, the types of permits available, the required documentation, and the application procedures for employee sponsorship.

Who is eligible to work in Turkey (Türkiye)?

Foreign nationals who intend to work in Turkey must obtain a valid work permit. Without one, employment is considered illegal and can result in fines for the employer, deportation for the worker, and restrictions on reentry.

Importantly, a Turkish work permit also doubles as a residence permit, which means it authorizes both living and working in the country for its duration.

• From outside Turkey: Applicants must apply for a visa at the Turkish consulate or embassy in their home country. Once approved, the employer applies for a permit through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
• From inside Turkey: If already holding a valid residence permit (other than for tourism), the employer may apply directly on the employee’s behalf.

What are the required documents for a visa application?

A visa is the entry authorization issued abroad by Turkish consulates or embassies. It does not grant the right to work indefinitely; this is only possible once paired with a permit issued by Turkish authorities.

When applying, foreign employees generally need:

• Valid passport (minimum six months’ validity)
• Completed application form
• Recent biometric photographs
• Job offer or letter of employment from a Turkish company
• Signed employment contract
• Educational diplomas or professional certificates (with translations if required)
• Proof of residence in the country of application (if not the same as nationality)
• Visa fee payment receipt

At the same time, the employer must submit supporting company documents electronically in Turkey, such as tax certificates and trade registry details. Note that application fees may apply depending on the applicant’s nationality and local consulate rules.

The process for employee sponsorship in Turkey (Türkiye)

The sponsorship process involves cooperation between the employee abroad and the sponsoring employer in Turkey.

Step 1 – Application abroad

The foreign worker applies for a visa at the Turkish mission in their country of residence. This process falls under the oversight of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which manages embassies and consulates.

Step 2 – Employer’s electronic filing

Within 10 business days of the employee’s consular application, the Turkish employer must submit an online filing via the Ministry’s e-Permit system. This step requires uploading both company and employee documents.

Step 3 – Review by Turkish authorities

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security examines both the employee’s visa request and the employer’s electronic application together. If approved, a permit card is issued, which also functions as a residence permit.

Step 4 – Visa issuance

Once approved, the Turkish consulate issues an entry visa. This is usually valid for up to 90 days, during which the employee must travel to Turkey.

Step 5 – Registration in Turkey

After arrival, the employer must register the employee with the Social Security Institution (SGK). At this stage, the worker’s permit grants them both the right to work and live in Turkey legally.

Types of work permits in Turkey (Türkiye)

Work authorization varies depending on the applicant’s circumstances, duration of employment, and role.

• Temporary (definite-term) permit: For first-time applicants, usually valid for 1 year, with extensions of 2 and 3 years.
• Permanent (indefinite-term) permit: For foreigners who have lived and worked in Turkey long-term under lawful status, removing the need for renewals.
• Independent permit: For entrepreneurs and investors running businesses in Turkey, subject to specific criteria.
• Turquoise card (Turkuaz Kart): For highly skilled professionals with expertise in science, culture, or technology, granting indefinite rights after a transition period.

Conditions for obtaining a work permit in Turkey (Türkiye)

Approval depends on compliance with local immigration laws and eligibility criteria:

• Turkish employee quota: At least 5 Turkish citizens must be employed for every foreign employee.
• Minimum salary thresholds: Salaries must be paid at multiples of the minimum wage depending on the role.
• Financial health of the company: The employer must demonstrate sufficient capital and operational activity. Weak balance sheets often result in rejection.
• Professional qualifications: Certain professions require diploma validation and equivalency certificates.
• Sector-specific rules: Additional criteria apply in healthcare, education, agriculture, tourism, and domestic work.

Failure to meet these conditions can result in rejection or future compliance risks.

Validity and extensions

• Initial permits are valid for 1 year.
• First renewal: up to 2 years.
• Subsequent renewals: up to 3 years.
• Permanent permits and the Turquoise Card grant indefinite rights.

If employment continues, employers must apply for a visa extension before the current permit expires. Missing deadlines means restarting the process from the beginning.

Why compliance matters

Permits in Turkey do more than establish the legal basis for employment. They protect both employers and employees from penalties, deportation, or reputational harm. By adhering to immigration laws and ensuring accurate documentation, companies avoid financial risks while foreign workers enjoy long-term stability.

Hiring across borders? Read our helpful article on how you can stay compliant with international employment laws.

How Remote can help

Managing compliance in Turkey can be complex. Partnering with an employer of record ensures that your company stays compliant with labor regulations and immigration laws while minimizing risk. Remote handles payroll, taxes, and visa support so your team can focus on growth. International hiring can become simple and streamlined with an global HR platform like Remote.

Download Remote’s Relocation Guide or contact our Mobility experts to streamline your hiring and relocation process in Turkey.