Having the legal right to work in Turkey is essential for both employees and employers. While visiting Turkey may be permitted, working without proper authorization violates labor and immigration laws. This noncompliance can result in serious consequences, such as career setbacks and damage to a company’s reputation.
Who Needs a Right-to-Work Check in Turkey?
In Turkey, just like in other parts of Europe, individuals must have legal clearance to work. This legal requirement enables them to join an organization and earn a living while residing in the country. Working without a permit is illegal and punishable by law, with potential penalties including deportation and a reentry ban for non-citizens and non-EU nationals.
- Permanent Residents: Foreigners with permanent residency have the right to live and work in Turkey without needing a separate work permit. This status is valid for the holder’s lifetime.
- Temporary Residents: Foreigners residing in Turkey temporarily must secure a work permit before seeking employment.
- Work Permit Holders: Those with a work permit are legally allowed to work in Turkey. Work permits can be renewed as needed.
Do Non-Citizens Need a Work Visa or Permit in Turkey?
Yes, foreigners need a work permit to live and work in Turkey. Similar to other European countries, non-citizens also require a residence permit to legally reside and earn in Turkey. A work permit grants them legal residency.
Eligibility Requirements for a Turkey Work Visa
To qualify for a work visa in Turkey, applicants must have a clean criminal record, a secured job with a registered company, and a signed employment contract. Other requirements include:
- Updated academic and professional qualification documents
- Valid passport
- Two biometric photos
- Medical insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Turkey
Long-Stay Visa Types in Turkey
While Turkey offers short-term visas, long-stay visas like the Turkish work visa and student visa are valid for up to a year and can be renewed upon expiration.
How to Obtain a Work Visa for Turkey
To obtain a work visa, applicants must provide:
- A valid international passport
- A visa application form
- An employment letter and contract
- Updated resume and qualifications
- Police clearance and proof of accommodation
Applications can be submitted online via the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) website, with a processing time of about 30 days.
Employee Work Visa Sponsorship Process in Turkey
For work visa sponsorship in Turkey, employees must:
- Submit visa applications through the nearest Turkish consulate.
- Secure a work visa at the nearest Turkish mission.
- Ensure that the employer submits required documents to the MLSS within 10 days of the visa application.
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Turkey
Turkey does not have a dedicated digital nomad visa program, but remote workers can apply for a visa that suits their needs. The requirements may differ slightly from those of other visa types.
- EU Nationals: Ordinary passport holders from EU countries do not need a visa for short stays between 90 and 180 days.
- Non-EU Nationals: Non-EU nationals require a valid passport and visa for both long and short stays, with diplomats being the exception.