The work of foreigners in Turkey is subject to permission and procedures unless there is a provision contrary to international regulations. These permissions and procedures must be fulfilled as a rule before starting to work. The exception to this arrangement was regulated in the Law on the Work Permit for Foreigners, Article 4.

In the case of the following statutes, the work permit may be given after starting to work;

•  In cases where the country’s benefits require or depending on the force majeures,
• Provided that information is given to the relevant authority before starting to work,
• On condition that working period will not exceed one month and the Ministerial approval has been obtained.

There are 5 types of work permits:

1. Temporary work permit
2. Permanent work permit
3. Independent work permit
4. Turquoise Card work permit
5. Exceptional work permit

Temporary Work Permit

Temporary work permit is a permission granted for a maximum of one year. After 1 year of legal working, on condition that the person works in the same workplace or business and in the same profession, the work permit can be extended up to 3 years. At the end of this 3-year legal working period, the work permit can be extended up to 6 years under the condition that the person works in the same profession with any employer.

Permanent Work Permit

Foreigners holding long-term residence permits or minimum eight years of legal work permit can apply for permanent work permit. Foreigners who have a permanent work permit have all the rights which a long term residence permit provides. They also benefit from the rights entitled to Turkish citizens, except where private laws state otherwise. However, holders of permanent work permit have no right to elect and be elected or to enter into public service, and they have no obligation for military service. 

Independent Work Permit

Foreign professionals of some occupational groups can be granted independent work permit provided that they meet the special conditions specified in other laws. Foreigners’ educational level, professional experience, contribution to science and technology, effect of their in-country activities or investments on Turkey’s economy and employment will be taken into account in the assessment of independent work permit applications. Independent work permit is arranged for defined period of time.

Turquoise Card Work Permit

Turquoise Card can be granted to foreigners whose applications are considered appropriate by the Ministry on the basis of the foreigner’s education, professional experience, contribution to science and technology, the effect of the foreigner’s investment or activity on Turkey’s economy and employment. Turquoise card is granted to the foreigner for 3 years of transition period. The Ministry of Labor and Social Security may request information and documents from employer or employed foreigner in regard to conducted activities. Holders of Turquoise Cards have the same rights provided by permanent work permit.

Exceptional Work Permit

Unless there is a violation of international agreements, exceptional work permit may be granted if all of the requirements in the law on the work permit for foreigners are met.