Turkey Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, combining a dynamic economy with cultural richness and growing global employment demand.

The country’s thriving industries, modern infrastructure, and affordable cost of living make it a leading destination for international workers seeking legal and rewarding opportunities.

This detailed guide explains everything about the Turkey Work Visa and Work Permit — from eligibility and documentation to the whole application process, fees, duration, and the top industries hiring foreign talent.

Why Work in Turkey

1. A Diversified Economy

Turkey boasts strong performance in manufacturing, construction, tourism, logistics, healthcare, and technology.

The demand for foreign expertise continues to grow across multiple sectors.

2. Increasing Demand for Foreign Labour

Companies in Turkey regularly recruit professionals from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and African nations to fill skill shortages and support large-scale projects.

3. Legal Pathway to Employment

The Turkish government provides a transparent and well-regulated system for foreigners to live and work legally, supported by digital visa applications and verified employer registration.

4. Cost-Effective Lifestyle

Turkey offers a lower cost of living compared to Western Europe, enabling workers to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while saving money.

5. Safe and Hospitable Environment

Turkish culture is known for its warmth, respect, and hospitality toward foreign nationals. English is commonly used in workplaces and tourism hubs.

6. Opportunity for Residence and Long-Term Stay

Foreigners who maintain continuous employment can apply for a residence permit and eventually a long-term residence card.

Understanding the Turkey Work Permit

A work permit authorises non-Turkish citizens to work legally for a specific employer in Turkey.

It includes your employer’s name, job description, and duration of employment.

Issuing Authority

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı) issues all work permits after reviewing applications submitted by Turkish employers.

Validity

Work permits are typically valid for 1 year and can be renewed as long as employment continues.

Types of Work Permits in Turkey

Permit Type	Purpose	Validity	Ideal For
Short-Term Work Permit	Standard employment with a Turkish company	1 year	General workers
Permanent Work Permit	Granted, after 8 years of continuous legal work	Unlimited	Long-term residents
Independent Work Permit	For self-employed or investors	1–5 years	Entrepreneurs
Turquoise Card	For highly skilled professionals	Indefinite	Experts, scientists
Seasonal/Temporary Permit	For short-term or agricultural work	Up to 6 months	Farm, hospitality staff

Turkey Work Visa (Type D Long-Stay Visa)

The Type D Long-Stay Visa permits foreign nationals to enter Turkey for employment purposes that exceed 90 days.

It is directly tied to your approved work permit application.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Turkey Work Visa, applicants must:

• Hold a valid job offer from a registered Turkish employer.
• Have an approved work-permit application number.
• Possess a passport valid for at least 12 months.
• Provide proof of accommodation in Turkey.
• Show financial means for personal expenses.
• Hold medical insurance valid in Turkey.
• Present a clean criminal record certificate.

Visa Validity

Typically valid for one year, renewable together with the work permit and residence card.

Documents Required

From the Employer

• Completed work-permit application form.
• Employment contract signed by both parties.
• Trade-registry certificate and tax documents.
• Social-security registration proof.
• Payment receipt for the application fee.

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12-month validity).
• Two biometric photos.
• Visa application form.
• Letter of intent from the employer.
• Medical-insurance certificate.
• Proof of accommodation.
• Bank statement or evidence of funds.
• Police-clearance certificate.

Step-by-Step Process for the Turkey Work Visa

1. Get a Job Offer
   You can secure employment with a Turkish company that is authorised to employ foreign nationals.
2. Apply for a Work Visa at a Turkish Embassy
   Submit your documents to the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
3. Employer Submits Online Work-Permit Application
   The employer must submit your details to the Ministry of Labour within 10 business days after you have submitted your visa application.
4. Application Review and Approval
   The Ministry processes the application within 30 working days and issues an approval letter upon successful completion.
5. Collect Visa and Travel to Turkey
   Once approved, collect your Type D Work Visa and travel legally to Turkey.
6. Apply for a Residence Permit
   Within 30 days of arrival, register with the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management to obtain your Residence Card (İkamet İzni).

Processing Time

Stage	Estimated Duration
Work-Permit Application	30 working days
Embassy Visa Processing	15–30 working days
Residence-Permit Processing	2–3 weeks
Total Duration	60–75 working days

Fees and Costs

Service	Average Fee (€)	Paid By
Work-Permit Application	120–150	Employer
Type D Work Visa	80–100	Employee
Residence-Permit Card	70–100	Employee
Embassy Service Fee	20–30	Employee

Additional costs include document translation, legalisation, health insurance, and travel expenses.

Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Turkey

Industry	Common Roles	Average Monthly Salary (€)	Permit Type
Construction	Labourers, Welders, Electricians	900–1 400	Short-Term
Manufacturing	Machine Operators, Technicians	1 000–1 500	Short-Term
Hospitality & Tourism	Waiters, Housekeepers, Chefs	900–1 300	Seasonal
IT & Engineering	Developers, Analysts, Technicians	1 800–3 500	Turquoise
Healthcare	Nurses, Caregivers, Specialists	1 500–3 000	Skilled
Logistics & Transport	Drivers, Coordinators	1 100–1 800	Short-Term
Education	Teachers, Trainers	1 500–2 500	Skilled

Benefits of Working in Turkey

• Legal employment under official authorisation.
• Access to public healthcare and social-security benefits.
• Family-reunification rights for residence-permit holders.
• Option to apply for long-term residence.
• Affordable living costs with strong saving potential.
• Multicultural workplaces with English communication.
• Transparent government-supervised process.

Official Government Resources

• Ministry of Labour and Social Security — https://www.csgb.gov.tr
• Directorate General of Migration Management — https://www.goc.gov.tr
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey — https://www.mfa.gov.tr
• e-Visa Application Portal — https://www.evisa.gov.tr

Turkey Immigration & Work Permit Services | Moving2Europe.eu

Turkey has become one of the region’s most dynamic destinations for foreign professionals, thanks to its growing industrial base, expanding service sectors, strategic geographic location, and increasing demand for skilled and semi-skilled international workers. However, Turkey’s immigration framework—work permits, employer sponsorship, residence applications, ministry approvals and extensive documentation—can be challenging to navigate without specialised guidance.

Moving2Europe.eu provides structured, compliant and end-to-end Turkey immigration support for workers, families and employers hiring talent from abroad.

Complete Turkey Work Permit & Residence Solutions

We support all major Turkish immigration routes, including:

• Turkey Work Permit (Employer-Sponsored)
• Short-Term Residence Permit for Employment
• Long-Term Residence & Work Permit Extensions
• Turquoise Card (for high-level and skilled professionals)
• Seasonal & short-term employment permissions
• Business & self-employment residence options
• Intra-company transfer routes
• Student, trainee & internship residence permits

Support is available for both individuals and employers recruiting internationally.

Turkey Immigration Services for Individuals

1. Work Permit & Employment Residence Support

We help applicants with:

• Employer-sponsored work permit filings
• Residence permits linked to employment status
• Seasonal and temporary work authorisations
• Long-term residence & work permit upgrades

2. Documentation & Embassy/Consulate Assistance

Our services include:

• Personalised documentation checklists
• Full review for legal and compliance accuracy
• Apostilles, notarisation & sworn translations
• Visa/residence application preparation
• Embassy/consulate appointment scheduling
• Interview preparation (if required)

3. Arrival & Legal Compliance in Turkey

We assist with:

• Entry and border procedures
• Mandatory address registration
• Biometrics & residence card issuance (Ikamet)
• Health insurance and tax number setup
• Employer reporting and compliance obligations

Turkey Family & Dependent Visa Services

We help families relocating to Turkey with:

• Spouse residence permits
• Dependent child visas
• Family reunification procedures
• Long-term residence rights for dependents
• Schooling and settlement support

Your family’s move to Turkey is handled smoothly and in full compliance with local rules.

Turkey Immigration Solutions for Employers & Recruiters

Turkey continues to experience labour demand across a broad range of industries, including:

• Manufacturing & industrial production
• Construction & infrastructure
• Hospitality, hotels & tourism
• Logistics, transport & warehousing
• Agriculture & seasonal labour
• Healthcare & caregiving services
• IT, telecom & engineering
• Education & specialised professions

We assist employers with:

• Selecting the correct work permit category
• Preparing and submitting employee documentation
• Labour compliance and eligibility checks
• High-volume workforce recruitment & mobility programs
• Ongoing coordination with HR and legal departments
• Ensuring full compliance with Turkish immigration legislation

We make it easy for organisations to recruit and onboard foreign workers in Turkey legally.

Executive Mobility Services for Turkey

For senior executives and high-level specialists, we offer:

• Priority case processing
• Confidential management of sensitive documents
• Tailored relocation & mobility planning
• Fast-track preparation of application files
• Direct coordination with corporate HR/legal teams

Digital Turkey Immigration Tracking System

Our digital platform offers:

• 24/7 real-time case status tracking
• Secure document uploads
• Step-by-step milestone updates
• Compliance alerts & renewal reminders
• Immigration guidelines and regulation updates

Ideal for both individuals and HR departments managing multiple applications.

Why Choose Moving2Europe.eu for Turkey Immigration?

• Extensive experience in Turkish immigration & work permit regulations
• Accurate, well-prepared and compliant application files
• Dedicated case managers for each applicant
• Support for workers, families and employers
• Clear communication throughout every stage
• A global immigration network spanning 170+ countries
• In-depth knowledge of Turkey’s labour and residence laws
• Technology-driven, transparent and organised case management

We simplify Turkey’s immigration process and ensure a legal, reliable path to work and live in the country.

Start Your Turkey Work Permit Process Today

Whether you’re applying individually, relocating with family or hiring foreign employees, Moving2Europe.eu delivers a smooth, compliant and professionally managed Turkey immigration experience from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main types of Turkey work permits?

Turkey offers the Work Permit, Temporary Work Permit, Independent Work Permit, Turquoise Card, and Seasonal Work Authorisation.

2. What is the Turkey Work Permit?

A legal authorisation allowing foreign nationals to work in Türkiye under an employer-sponsored job contract.

3. What documents are required for a Turkish work permit?

Passport, employer application form, employment contract, health insurance, qualifications, CV, biometric photo, and required translations.

4. How long does the Turkey work permit process take?

Typically, 3–6 weeks, depending on employer documentation and Ministry of Labour approval.

5. Do I need a job offer to apply for a Turkish work visa?

Yes, a valid job offer or contract is required for almost all Turkish work permit categories.

6. What is the Turkey Work Visa?

A visa issued by Turkish consulates abroad that allows you to enter Türkiye and complete work permit procedures.

7. Can I apply for a Turkish work permit from abroad?

Yes, the employer applies online in Türkiye, and you apply at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country.

8. Can companies in Turkey hire foreign workers?

Yes, employers can hire foreigners if they meet labour rules, maintain minimum staffing ratios, and justify the need for foreign staff.

9. What is the minimum salary requirement in Turkey?

Foreign worker salaries must meet Turkish labour law standards and vary by occupation—often higher for skilled positions.

10. Can students work in Türkiye?

International students may work part-time at the university level once they obtain a valid work permit.

11. What are the shortage occupations in Turkey?

Hospitality, construction, textile manufacturing, caregiving, agriculture, IT support, and tourism services.

12. Can I bring my family to Turkey while working?

Yes, long-term permit holders can apply for family residence permits for spouses and children.

13. Do dependents have work rights in Turkey?

No, dependents must apply for their own separate work permits.

14. What is the Turkey Turquoise Card?

A long-term residence and work authorisation for highly skilled professionals, investors, or researchers.

15. Can I change employers after receiving a Turkey work permit?

Yes, but a new permit must be applied for under the new employer.

16. Do I need Turkish language skills to work in Türkiye?

Not always. English is widely accepted in hospitality, tourism, and foreign-run businesses, but Turkish is also used in everyday life.

17. Is health insurance mandatory in Turkey?

Yes, health insurance valid in Türkiye is required for the work permit and residence permit process.

18. What is the Turkey Seasonal Work Permit?

A permit for short-term jobs in agriculture, tourism, and specific service sectors during peak seasons.

19. Can seasonal workers later apply for long-term residence?

No, seasonal work does not count toward eligibility for long-term residence.

20. How do I register my address in Türkiye?

You must visit the local Population Directorate (Nüfus Müdürlüğü) to register your residential address.

21. Can I apply for permanent residence in Turkey?

Yes, after several years of legal stay and meeting income, accommodation, and a clean record requirements.

22. Does Turkey hire non-EU and Asian workers?

Yes, Türkiye actively hires workers from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East for both skilled and unskilled roles.

23. What jobs are most in demand in Turkey?

Restaurant staff, hotel workers, construction labourers, caregivers, textile workers, drivers, and machine operators.

24. Is it challenging to find a job in Turkey?

Jobs are available in many sectors, especially hospitality, construction, and retail, though competition can be high.

25. How long can I stay with a Turkey work visa?

Usually up to 90 days, during which your employer completes your work permit application.

26. Can I renew my Turkish work permit?

Yes, renewals must be filed before expiry and can extend your stay for multiple years.

27. What is a Turkey Residence Permit Card?

A biometric card confirming your legal right to live in Türkiye for work, study, or family purposes.

28. Do I need biometrics for Turkey?

Yes, fingerprints and photographs are required during the residence permit appointment.

29. Can my employer apply for my Turkish work permit?

Yes, the employer submits the online work permit application to the Ministry of Labour.

30. Is Turkey part of the Schengen Area?

No, Turkey is not a Schengen member, so its residence permits do not grant Schengen travel.

31. Can I travel around Europe with a Turkish residence permit?

No, a separate Schengen visa is required unless your nationality allows visa-free travel.

32. What if my Turkey work permit is refused?

You can go ahead and appeal or apply. Refusals usually involve missing documentation or employer eligibility issues.

33. Does Turkey hire drivers and logistics workers?

Yes, delivery drivers, truck drivers, loaders, and warehouse workers are frequently in demand.

34. Is Turkey suitable for skilled migration?

Yes, especially for engineers, IT professionals, hospitality experts, and technical specialists.

35. Do documents need Turkish translation?

Yes, foreign documents almost always require certified Turkish translations and legalisation.

36. Can unskilled foreigners find jobs in Turkey?

Yes, agriculture, hotels, restaurants, cleaning services, and construction hire unskilled workers.

37. What is the Turkey work permit processing time?

Generally, 3–6 weeks, depending on government workload and employer compliance.

38. Are healthcare workers in demand in Turkey?

Yes, caregivers, nurses, and medical technicians are needed, though licensing requirements may apply.

39. Do employers provide accommodation in Turkey?

Some employers offer accommodation, especially in hospitality, agriculture, and construction.

40. What is the labour market test in Turkey?

Employers must comply with Turkish hiring rules, including local hiring ratios and justification for foreign recruitment.

41. Can I work while my Turkish work permit is processing?

No, you must wait for full permit approval before starting work.

42. Is there an age limit for work permits in Turkey?

No official age limit exists, but applicants must meet job and health suitability requirements.

43. Can I convert a tourist visa to a work visa in Turkey?

No, work permit applications must be initiated from abroad unless applying for an in-country residence-based permit.

44. Does Turkey offer entry-level jobs to foreigners?

Yes, hotels, restaurants, factories, farms, and retail businesses hire entry-level staff.

45. Are biometrics required again after arrival?

Yes, biometrics are captured during the residence permit appointment.

46. Does Turkey have a digital nomad visa?

Not yet, but remote workers may apply under long-stay residence categories if they meet financial requirements.

47. What sectors offer the highest salaries in Turkey?

Engineering, IT, finance, aviation, hospitality management, and specialised construction roles.

48. Can working in Turkey lead to citizenship?

Yes, long-term residents may apply for citizenship if they meet income, residency, and language criteria.

49. Does Moving2Europe.eu assist with Turkish work permits?

Yes, we help with employer sponsorship, document preparation, embassy procedures, and residence card processing.

50. How can I start my Turkey work visa application?

Send your CV to Moving2Europe.eu, select your job sector, and we will manage employer sponsorship and the complete visa process.

Professional Assistance with M2S Group Sp. z o.o.

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides complete professional assistance for Turkey Work Visas, Work Permits, and Residence Applications.

Our team supports you through job placement, document verification, employer coordination, and embassy processing, ensuring a fully legal and transparent procedure.

For verified job offers and reliable visa support in Turkey, you can contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Today, begin your successful career journey in Europe’s gateway to the world.