Turkey continues to be a strategic destination for foreign companies and professionals alike. However, securing a work permit in Turkey requires careful attention to legal requirements, eligibility criteria, and procedural details.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the 2025 work permit application process, including the latest updates on employment criteria, capital requirements, and supporting documents.
Who Needs a Work Permit in Turkey?
- All foreign nationals who intend to work in Turkey must obtain a valid work permit.
- Exceptions: Certain diplomatic roles, short-term business visits, and special categories as defined by Turkish law.
- Important note: Being a company shareholder does not automatically entitle you to work in Turkey. A valid work permit is still required.
Types of Work Permits in Turkey
- Short-term Work Permit: Typically issued for 1 year, extendable.
- Permanent Work Permit: For long-term residents with 8+ years in Turkey.
- Independent Work Permit: For qualified professionals establishing independent businesses.
- Turquoise Card: For highly skilled foreigners, offering long-term residence and work rights.
Eligibility Criteria for Work Permit Applications in Turkey
Employment Quota:
- Employers must hire at least five Turkish citizens per foreign employee.
- Exception: Companies with annual net sales of 50,000,000 TL or more can employ up to five foreigners without this quota.
Financial Criteria:
- Newly established companies: Minimum paid-in capital of 500,000 TL.
- Active companies: 500,000 TL capital, or 8,000,000 TL net sales, or USD 150,000 exports.
- Partnerships: One partner must meet the same thresholds.
Salary Criteria:
- Senior Executives & Pilots: 5× minimum wage
- Engineers & Architects: 4× minimum wage
- Other Managers: 3× minimum wage
- Specialist Roles: 2× minimum wage
- Household Workers & Other Roles: At least minimum wage
Special Cases & Exemptions
- Legal residents in Turkey for at least 3 of the last 5 years (up to 3 foreigners per company).
- Family members of Turkish citizens.
- Humanitarian residence holders, stateless persons, and victims of human trafficking.
- Long-term residence holders and foreigners married to Turkish citizens for at least 3 years.
- Turkish-origin foreigners approved by the Ministry.
- Citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Note: Documentation proving status is mandatory.
Work Permit in Turkey for Foreign Company Shareholders
- Shareholder must hold at least 500,000 TL capital share and own at least 20% of the company.
- The company must also maintain a minimum paid-in capital of 500,000 TL.
- Employment of at least 5 Turkish nationals is required.
- The first work permit is issued conditionally; starting from the 7th month, this employment quota becomes mandatory.
- Exception: Shareholders with capital shares exceeding USD 100,000 are exempt from these conditions.
Application Process
Domestic Applications:
- Submit through the Ministry of Labor online system.
- Employer provides supporting documents (activity certificate, trade registry gazette, notarized balance sheet and income statement).
- Employee provides passport, diploma, employment contract.
Applications from Abroad:
- Employee applies via Turkish consulate/embassy in their home country.
- Supporting documents include employment contract, invitation letter, tax certificate, trade registry gazette, etc.
- Employee receives a 16-digit reference number.
- Employer completes application on the Ministry of Labor system using this number.
Processing Time:
Ministry decision is typically issued within 30 days after the application is submitted. Additional supporting documents may be requested during this period.
Renewal of Work Permits in Turkey
- Applications for renewal should be submitted 60 days before expiration.
- Renewals require updated documents, including employment continuity proof and compliance with criteria.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Significant fines for both employer and employee.
- Unauthorized employment can lead to administrative sanctions, deportation for the foreign national, and reputational risk for the employer.
How Metropol CPA Can Assist for Work Permit Applications in Turkey
- Assessing eligibility and criteria
- Preparing and submitting full application packages
- Liaising with authorities for smooth processing
- Advising on company structure to avoid future complications
Contact us today to ensure your work permit application is compliant and successful.
For more insights, you can also read our related guide: Annual Leave in Turkey