Detailed Report on Work Permit in Turkiye for 2025

Introduction A work permit in Turkiye is one of the most important types of residence permits that allow foreigners to work legally and benefit from several advantages, such as health insurance and the possibility of applying for Turkish citizenship.

The work permit can be obtained through two main ways: by being employed in a Turkish company or by establishing a private company.

To obtain a work permit, you must follow one of the two methods:

First Method: Obtaining a Work Permit Through Employment in a Turkish Company

1. Requirements:

• You must have a valid tourist residence permit for at least one month.

• The Turkish company must apply for the work permit on your behalf.

• The company must have at least five Turkish employees for every foreign employee (this requirement is waived for some specialized professions).

• The company must pay all applicable taxes and social security contributions.

2. Required Documents:

• A copy of a valid passport with at least six months of validity.

• A copy of the tourist residence permit.

• A recent personal photo.

• A signed employment contract between you and the employer.

• An educational certificate translated into Turkish and notarized (if applicable).

• Work permit application form.

3. Application Process:

• The company submits a work permit application through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security portal.

• The application is reviewed within approximately 30 days.

• If approved, the work permit is issued, and you can start working in the company.

• After obtaining the work permit, you can apply for a work residence permit, which is valid for one year and renewable.

4. Costs:

• Work permit application fees range between $140 and $400.

• Visa fees range between $50 and $100, depending on the type of residence permit.

• Health insurance costs vary depending on age and the insurance provider.

Second Method: Obtaining a Work Permit Through Establishing a Private Company

1. Requirements:

• Establishing a company with a minimum capital of 100,000 Turkish liras.

• After the first year, employing at least five Turkish citizens is mandatory.

• Commitment to paying taxes and social security contributions.

• The company must be active and have an official business address.

2. Required Documents for Company Establishment:

• A valid passport translated into Turkish and notarized.

• A registered residential address in Turkiye.

• Selection of company type (sole proprietorship, limited liability company, joint-stock company, etc.).

• Appointment of a certified accountant.

3. Application Process:

• Drafting the company establishment contract and notarizing it.

• Registering the company with the Turkish Trade Registry.

• Opening a corporate bank account and depositing the capital.

• Applying for a tax identification number.

• After establishing the company, applying for a work permit as a company owner.

4. Costs:

• Company registration fees range between $500 and $1,500, depending on the company type.

• Accountant fees range between $100 and $300 per month.

• Annual taxes depend on company profits.

Advantages of a Work Permit in Turkiye

• Legal Work Rights: The work permit allows you to work officially and legally without any legal issues.

• Eligibility for Turkish Citizenship: After five years of continuous residence with a work permit, you can apply for Turkish citizenship.

• Health Insurance Benefits: The work permit allows you to enroll in the state health insurance system and benefit from discounted medical services.

• Family Residence Permit: Work permit holders can apply for a residence permit for their family (spouse and children).

• Bank Account Access: A work permit facilitates the process of opening a bank account in Turkiye.

• Freedom to Travel: Work permit holders do not need a visa to re-enter Turkiye.

• Investment Opportunities: If you own a company, you can benefit from business opportunities in Turkiye and expand your enterprise.

• Retirement and Social Benefits: After a certain period of work, you are entitled to pension benefits and other social security advantages.

Comparison Between the Two Methods