Your Complete Guide to the Turkey Work Visa: Requirements, Process, and Job Opportunities

Turkey is one of the most dynamic employment destinations connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. With a large and diversified economy, strong demand in construction, manufacturing, tourism, healthcare, education, and domestic services, Turkey actively employs foreign workers across multiple sectors.

For individuals seeking legal employment, competitive regional salaries, and long-term residence opportunities, a Turkish work visa offers a clear and structured pathway.

This guide explains everything you need to know in a simple, straightforward, and human tone, based on official Turkish regulations and real employment practices.

Why Apply for a Turkey Work Visa?

Turkey allows foreign nationals to work legally through employer-sponsored work permits issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. The country offers a large job market, long-term residence options, and a strategic location with growing international business activity.

Step-by-Step Turkey Work Visa Process

Step 1: Secure a job offer from a registered Turkish employer

Only legally registered Turkish employers can hire foreign nationals. A formal job offer or employment contract is mandatory.

Step 2: Employer applies for your work permit

The employer submits the work permit application online to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) in Turkey.

Step 3: Receive work permit approval

Once approved, the work permit approval is electronically linked to your visa application.

Step 4: Apply for a work visa at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate

Please submit your visa application at the Turkish embassy or consulate in your home country within the given timeframe.

Step 5: Submit documents and biometrics

Please send all required documents and complete the biometrics collection.

Step 6: Attend the visa interview

You may be asked about your employer, job role, salary, and intention to work in Turkey.

Step 7: Receive visa approval and travel to Turkey

After approval, the work visa is stamped in your passport, allowing legal entry and employment.

Turkey Work Visa From Abroad

A Turkish work visa allows non-Turkish nationals to enter and work legally for a registered employer.

Most applicants apply from abroad through Turkish embassies or consulates.

The process always starts with the employer, who must apply for the work permit within Turkey.

Types of Work Permits in Turkey

Turkey offers several work permit categories:

1. Definite-Term Work Permit

Issued for up to one year and renewable.

This is the most common work permit.

2. Indefinite Work Permit

Available to long-term residents who meet legal criteria.

3. Independent Work Permit

For self-employed professionals and business owners.

4. Turquoise Card

For highly qualified professionals, investors, and researchers.

5. Work Visa (Employment Purpose)

This is the visa stamped in your passport once the work permit is approved.

Benefits of a Turkey Work Permit

• Legal right to live and work in Turkey
• Automatic residence right linked to the work permit
• Access to social security and healthcare
• Renewable and extendable permits
• Family residence permit options
• Large and diverse job market
• Strategic location with international exposure

Eligibility for a Turkey Work Visa

To qualify, applicants must meet the following:

• Valid job offer from a Turkish employer
• Approved work permit application
• Relevant skills or experience
• Clean criminal record
• Valid passport
• Medical fitness
• Compliance with salary and quota rules

Turkey Work Visa Requirements

Applicants typically must submit:

• Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity)
• Completed work visa application form
• Passport-size photographs
• Work permit approval reference
• Signed employment contract
• Proof of accommodation (if required)
• Medical insurance
• Police clearance certificate
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Cover letter explaining work purpose

Additional documents may be requested.

How to Apply for a Turkey Work Visa (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Find a genuine Turkish employer

Is the employer registered and authorised to hire foreigners?

Step 2: Employer applies for a work permit

The application is submitted online through the Ministry of Labour system.

Step 3: Receive approval

Approval is sent electronically to the embassy.

Step 4: Apply at the Turkish Embassy

Submit your visa application within the allowed period.

Step 5: Submit documents and biometrics

Could you ensure accuracy and completeness?

Step 6: Attend a visa interview

Could you explain your job role and employer details?

Step 7: Visa approval and travel

After approval, you may travel and begin work.

Tips to Avoid Turkey Work Visa Rejection

• Avoid fake job offers or unauthorised agents
• Verify employer registration
• Ensure salary meets legal minimums
• Submit accurate and genuine documents
• Match qualifications to job role
• Prepare for interview questions
• Maintain passport validity

Top In-Demand Jobs in Turkey

Occupation	Monthly Salary (EUR)	Requirements	Suitable For
Construction Worker	€800 – €1,400	Physical fitness	Labour workers
Factory Worker	€750 – €1,300	No experience required	Entry-level
Textile Worker	€700 – €1,200	Basic skills	Factory staff
Welder	€1,200 – €2,000	Certification	Skilled workers
Electrician	€1,300 – €2,200	Technical qualification	Professionals
Plumber	€1,200 – €2,000	Trade experience	Skilled trades
Machine Operator	€1,100 – €1,800	Technical skills	Semi-skilled
Truck Driver	€1,500 – €2,500	Valid licence	Drivers
Hotel Staff	€750 – €1,300	Basic English	Hospitality
Cook / Chef	€1,200 – €2,200	Kitchen experience	Culinary staff
Cleaner	€650 – €1,100	No experience	Entry-level
Caregiver	€800 – €1,400	Basic training	Support workers
English Teacher	€1,200 – €2,500	Degree + TEFL	Educators
IT Specialist	€1,800 – €3,500	IT background	IT professionals

Turkey’s Most In-Demand Job Sectors

1. Construction & Infrastructure

Large-scale housing and infrastructure projects create strong labour demand.

2. Manufacturing & Industry

Textiles, automotive, food processing, and electronics hire foreign workers.

3. Tourism & Hospitality

Hotels, resorts, and restaurants recruit seasonal and permanent staff.

4. Domestic & Care Services

Caregivers, cleaners, and support staff are in high demand.

5. Education

English teachers and international school staff are actively hired.

6. Information Technology

Tech startups and multinational companies drive IT demand.

Turkey Work Visa Processing Time

• Work Permit Processing: 30–45 days
• Visa Processing (Embassy): 7–15 days
• Total Estimated Timeline: 1–2 months

Processing times vary by case and documentation.

Turkey Work Visa Cost

Typical costs include:

• Visa Fee: €60 – €120
• Work Permit Fee: Paid by employer (varies)
• Medical Insurance: €20 – €50
• Document Translation & Notarisation: €30 – €80

How to Find Jobs Through Official Government Portals in Turkey

Using official portals ensures legal and verified employment.

Turkish Employment Agency (İŞKUR)

Website: https://www.iskur.gov.tr

Provides:

• Verified job listings
• Employer registration
• Labour market information

Ministry of Labour and Social Security

Website: https://www.csgb.gov.tr

Provides:

• Work permit rules
• Employer obligations
• Online application system

Official Visa Information

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey

Website: https://www.mfa.gov.tr

Provides:

• Visa categories
• Embassy and consulate contacts
• Application guidelines

How Can M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Help You?

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides transparent, ethical, and professional immigration assistance across Europe and neighbouring regions.

Our services include:

• Free eligibility assessment
• Career consultation
• Turkey work visa guidance
• Document preparation support
• International job search assistance
• End-to-end application support

Whether you plan to work in Turkey or explore long-term regional opportunities, our team provides accurate, reliable guidance at every stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Turkey Work Visa

1. What is a Turkey work visa?

A Turkey work visa is a long-stay national visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Turkey for employment after receiving official approval for a work permit.

2. Who needs a Turkey work visa to work legally?

All non-Turkish citizens, including EU and non-EU nationals, must obtain a work visa and work permit to work legally in Turkey.

3. Is Turkey part of the European Union or the Schengen Area?

No. Turkey is not a member of the EU or the Schengen Area, though it has close economic and mobility agreements with Europe.

4. What is the central work permit system in Turkey?

Turkey operates a centralised Work Permit System in which the work permit also serves as a residence permit.

5. Is a job offer mandatory for a Turkish work visa?

Yes. A confirmed job offer or signed employment contract from a Turkish employer is mandatory.

6. Who applies for the work permit in Turkey—the employer or the employee?

The employer applies online for the work permit, while the employee submits documents through the Turkish embassy or consulate.

7. Which authority issues work permits in Turkey?

Work permits are issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (ÇSGB).

8. What types of work permits are available in Turkey?

Main categories include:

• Temporary Work Permit
• Permanent Work Permit
• Independent Work Permit
• Turquoise Card (for highly qualified foreigners)

9. What is a Temporary Work Permit in Turkey?

It is issued for up to 1 year, tied to a specific employer and job role, and can be renewed.

10. What is the Turquoise Card?

The Turquoise Card is a special permit for highly skilled professionals, investors, scientists, and artists, offering long-term residence and work rights.

11. What documents are required for a Turkish work visa?

Applicants generally need:

• Valid passport
• Work visa application form
• Approved work permit
• Employment contract
• Biometric photographs
• Police clearance certificate (if requested)
• Medical insurance
• Visa fee payment receipt

12. How long does the Turkey work permit processing take?

Work permit processing usually takes 15–30 days after the employer applies.

13. How long does visa processing take at the Turkish embassy?

Visa processing generally takes 5–15 working days after work permit approval.

14. How long is a Turkey work visa valid?

The visa allows entry into Turkey, after which the work permit serves as the residence authorisation.

15. Can I extend my stay in Turkey?

Yes. Temporary work permits can be renewed annually, provided employment continues.

16. Can I change employers in Turkey?

Yes, but a new work permit application must be submitted by the new employer.

17. Does the work permit replace a residence permit?

Yes. A valid Turkish work permit also serves as a residence permit.

18. Is biometric registration required?

Yes. Biometrics are collected during permit issuance and residence registration.

19. Is a criminal background certificate required?

It may be required depending on nationality and job sector.

20. Is health insurance mandatory for Turkish work visa holders?

Yes. Health insurance is mandatory until registration with Turkey’s social security system (SGK).

21. Are medical tests required for a Turkey work visa?

Medical tests may be required for certain professions or nationalities.

22. Do I need to speak Turkish to work in Turkey?

Turkish language skills are helpful but not mandatory for many roles, especially in tourism, education, manufacturing, and multinational companies.

23. Which industries hire the most foreign workers in Turkey?

High-demand sectors include:

• Manufacturing & factories
• Construction & infrastructure
• Tourism & hospitality
• Education (teachers & lecturers)
• Textiles & garments
• IT & technology

24. Is Turkey a good destination for foreign workers?

Yes. Turkey offers diverse job opportunities, a large economy, and relatively low living costs.

25. Can I bring my family to Turkey?

Yes. Family members can apply for family residence permits once the worker is legally employed.

26. Can my spouse work in Turkey?

Yes, but the spouse must obtain a separate work permit.

27. Can I work in other countries with a Turkish work visa?

No. Employment rights are limited to Turkey only.

28. Can I travel to Schengen countries with a Turkish work visa?

No. A Turkish work visa does not grant access to the Schengen area.

29. What is the minimum wage in Turkey?

Turkey’s minimum wage is approximately €550–€600 gross per month, subject to annual changes.

30. Does Turkey pay overtime?

Yes. Overtime and holiday work are compensated under Turkish labour law.

31. Do Turkish employers provide accommodation?

Some employers, especially in construction and tourism, provide free or subsidised accommodation.

32. Are meals or food allowances provided?

Many employers provide meals or meal allowances, especially in factories and hotels.

33. What happens if my employer terminates my contract?

Your work permit may be cancelled unless a new employer submits a fresh application.

34. Do Turkish authorities verify job offers?

Yes. Labour authorities thoroughly verify employers and contracts.

35. Are bank statements required for a Turkey work visa?

Generally, no, unless specifically requested by the embassy.

36. Can I apply for a Turkey work visa without an agent?

Yes. Applications are employer-driven and processed through official government systems.

37. What are standard working hours in Turkey?

The standard workweek is 45 hours, typically spread over 6 days.

38. Are fixed-term contracts allowed in Turkey?

Yes. Fixed-term contracts are permitted and commonly used.

39. Can I apply for permanent residence in Turkey?

Yes. After 8 years of legal residence, you may apply for long-term residence.

40. Is there an age limit for a Turkey work visa?

There is no official age limit; employment suitability is the main factor.

41. Which authority issues residence registration in Turkey?

Residence registration is handled by the Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM).

42. Can I start working immediately after arrival?

Yes, once your work permit is issued and registered.

43. Do I need to register my address in Turkey?

Yes. Address registration is mandatory within 20 working days of arrival.

44. Are seasonal work permits available in Turkey?

Yes. Seasonal permits are standard in agriculture and tourism.

45. Can I start a business on a Turkish work visa?

No. Business activities require an independent work permit or investor status.

46. Who pays the Turkey work permit fees?

Employers usually pay work permit fees; applicants pay visa fees.

47. How long does the complete Turkey work visa process take?

The complete process usually takes 3–6 weeks, depending on the speed of documentation and approval.

48. Do documents need to be translated for Turkey?

Yes. Documents must be translated into Turkish by certified translators.

49. Can I convert my work permit into permanent status?

Yes. Long-term residence or permanent work permits are possible after meeting duration requirements.

50. Is Turkey suitable for long-term settlement?

Yes. Turkey offers a large labour market, affordable living, family reunification options, and long-term residence pathways.