What is a Work Permit for Foreigners?

A work permit for foreigners is a mandatory document for foreigners wishing to work or conduct business in Turkey. Regulated under Law No. 6735 (International Labor Force Law), it is issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS). Certain professions are restricted to Turkish citizens only, meaning foreigners cannot work in these fields.

Work permits are classified as temporary, permanent, dependent, or independent, each requiring different documents. Working without a valid permit leads to administrative fines. The application must be coordinated with an employer, who initiates and completes the process.

According to Law No. 6735, work permit applications are divided into domestic and overseas applications.

1. Domestic Applications

Domestic applications are for foreigners with at least 6 months of valid residence permits. Applications must be submitted online through the MLSS portal. Both the barcode application form and additional documents must be uploaded and signed by the foreigner and employer.

2. Overseas Applications

Overseas applications are submitted through Turkish embassies or consulates. Required documents include:

• Passport copy,
• Residence permit copy,
• Employment contract,
• Employer documents (e.g., trade registry gazette, tax certificate).

The documents are forwarded to the MLSS for evaluation. If approved, the foreigner must apply for a visa within 90 days and for a residence permit within 30 days after entry into Turkey.

Some key criteria affecting approval include:

• Sectoral and economic conditions: Demand for foreign workers in specific sectors.
• Employment of Turkish citizens: The employer must employ at least 5 Turkish citizens for each foreign worker.
• Residence permit validity: The foreigner’s residence permit must still be valid.
• Job qualifications: The job position’s qualifications are critical in permit approval.

If a foreigner works without a permit:

• Both the foreigner and employer face administrative fines.
• The employer’s application may be rejected, and the foreigner may face deportation.