How to apply
A work visa lets a person from abroad work in Turkey. In both cases below, the employer makes the application through the government's online work permit system.
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If you already live in Turkey with a residence permit valid for at least six months, the employer applies online. Within 30 days of approval, the employer must register you with the social security office.
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If you live outside Turkey, you start the application at a Turkish embassy or consulate. You get a 16-digit reference number, and the employer then applies online.
Common conditions
- The workplace must already employ at least five Turkish citizens.
- The business must meet minimum levels of capital, sales or exports.
- A foreign partner in the company must hold at least 20% of it, and not less than 40,000 TL.
- The pay must suit the job. It is set as a multiple of the minimum wage: higher for senior managers, pilots, engineers, architects and teachers, and lower for household workers.
Some of these conditions do not apply to certain jobs, such as work in charities, schools, foreign airlines' offices or homes. They also do not apply to some people, for example those with a Turkish parent or child, those married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years, and those with residence given for humanitarian reasons.
What the service includes
- A first talk with lawyers experienced in Turkish work permits.
- Advice for both the worker and the employer, and help gathering all the papers.
- Overseeing the application to the right offices on time.
- Keeping in touch with the offices until the permit is approved and you can collect your residence card.