For foreigners who want to work legally in Türkiye, obtaining a work permit is the most important step.
Sina Tercüme offers document preparation, sworn translation, notary and application consulting to both employers and foreign employees.
What Is a Work Permit?
A work permit is the official authorisation that allows a foreign national to work legally in Türkiye. It is issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and is tied to a period, an employer and a position.
Working in Türkiye without one is not legal.
Who Can Apply?
- Foreigners holding a valid residence permit in Türkiye (the employer files the application)
- Employers who want to hire foreign staff
- Foreign company partners and investors
- Foreign teachers, healthcare workers and academics
We identify the right permit type for you in a free initial assessment.
Types of Work Permit
- Fixed-term work permit: Usually up to 1 year on first application; extensions with the same employer for 2 and then 3 years.
- Indefinite work permit: For foreigners with a long-term residence permit or at least 8 years of legal work permits.
- Independent work permit: For self-employed professionals.
- Turquoise Card: For qualified foreigners; the first 3 years are a transition period.
Application Process
- Initial assessment: The applicant's situation, profession and the workplace are reviewed.
- Documents: Passport, diploma, employment contract and company documents are prepared.
- Sworn translation and notary: Documents are translated into Turkish and certified.
- Online application: The employer applies through the Ministry's e-İzin system with an e-signature.
- Result: Assessment usually takes 30–45 days; after approval, social security registration must be made within 30 days.
We follow the process from start to finish and prepare a complete file.
Required Documents
- Passport (ID page, sufficient validity)
- Diploma or education certificate with sworn translation
- Signed employment contract
- Employer's tax certificate, certificate of activity and trade registry gazette
- Biometric photograph
Missing or incorrect documents can lead to rejection.
Why Sina Tercüme?
- Consultants experienced with Ministry procedures
- Sworn translation, notary and apostille managed in one place
- Complete document coordination for employer and employee
- Support in Turkish, English, Arabic, Russian and Persian
- Transparent pricing and regular follow-up
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work without a work permit?
No. Working without a permit is prohibited in Türkiye; administrative fines apply to both the employee and the employer.
How long is the permit valid?
The first permit is usually issued for up to 1 year; extensions with the same employer can be for 2 and 3 years.
Can I apply if I already have a residence permit?
Yes. For foreigners with a residence permit, the employer applies from within Türkiye.
What if the application is rejected?
We analyse the reason, complete what is missing and consider a new application or an objection.