Turkish Employment Visa Guide | How to apply For work in Turkey ?

Are You planning to work Abroad? But You have shortage of fund, then you must go for turkey because it offer good salary package within affordable visa fee as compared to Europe. This Turkish Employment Visa Guide will provide information about Eligibility criteria, types of work permit, how to apply . processing time and benfits of working in Turkey.

What is Turkey Work Visa?

Working in Turkey can be a rewarding experience, offering a blend of rich culture, history, and promising employment opportunities. Navigating the visa requirements is crucial to kick-starting your work journey in this beautiful country.

Eligibility Criteria for Turkish Government Work Visa

• Employment Offer: Obtain a formal job offer specifically from a Turkish government institution or organization.
• Educational Requirements: Possess educational qualifications or professional experience relevant to the position applied for.
• Work Permit: Secure a work permit from the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security.
• Health Insurance: Maintain valid health insurance coverage throughout the intended duration of stay in Turkey.
• Clean Background: Provide a clear criminal record or undergo a background check as part of the visa application process.

Reasons to Consider Working in Turkey

1. Cultural Diversity: Experience Turkey’s rich cultural heritage, blending Eastern and Western influences, offering diverse traditions and historical sites.
2. Growing Economy: Turkey’s rapidly expanding economy provides various job opportunities across sectors like technology, tourism, healthcare, and more.
3. Strategic Location: Situated between Europe and Asia, Turkey offers proximity to multiple continents, making it an advantageous base for international businesses and travel.
4. Unique Professional Experience: Working in Turkey offers unique professional experiences, especially in sectors where the country has a competitive advantage.
5. Quality of Life: Enjoy a high quality of life with moderate living costs, diverse cuisine, stunning landscapes, including beautiful coastlines, and historical landmarks.
6. Warm Hospitality: Experience the warm and welcoming nature of Turkish people, facilitating a smooth integration into the workforce for foreigners.
7. Language and Cultural Exchange: Working in Turkey provides an opportunity to learn the Turkish language, immerse oneself in a new culture, and engage in valuable cultural exchanges.
8. Career Growth Opportunities: Turkey’s strategic location and economic growth present opportunities for career advancement, networking, and professional development.
9. Vibrant Social Life: Enjoy a vibrant social scene with various social activities, festivals, and a lively nightlife, providing a balanced lifestyle beyond work commitments.

Processing Time for Turkiye Work Visa

Applications are finalized by the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) within thirty days at the latest.

Types of Work Permits in Turkey

1. Short-Term Work Permit

• For foreigners intending to work in Turkey for a period not exceeding one year.
• Suitable for short-term assignments, specific projects, or seasonal work.

2. Permanent Work Permit

• Granted to individuals planning to work and reside in Turkey indefinitely.
• Typically applicable to those with long-term employment contracts or specialized skills.

3. Independent Work Permit

• Issued to foreigners willing to establish their own businesses or engage in self-employment in Turkey.
• Requires proof of investment or a business plan.

4. Turquoise Card

• Designed for highly skilled professionals, investors, or researchers.
• Offers long-term residence and work rights, allowing freedom to switch employers.

Required Documents for Work Permit Application

Common Documents for All Work Permit Types:

1. Passport
2. Application Form
3. Passport Photos
4. Job Offer or Employment Contract
5. Educational Credentials
6. Health Insurance

Additional Documents Based on Work Permit Type:

• Short-Term Work Permit: Supporting documents indicating the nature and duration of the assignment/project.
• Permanent Work Permit: Additional proof of long-term employment or commitment in Turkey.
• Independent Work Permit: Business plan, investment details, or documentation related to self-employment.
• Turquoise Card: Evidence of exceptional qualifications, achievements, or investments that fulfill the criteria for this specialized permit.

Job Sectors in Demand in Turkey

1. Technology and IT: With a rapidly growing tech industry, demand exists for software developers, IT specialists, and engineers in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
2. Healthcare: Turkey’s healthcare sector requires skilled professionals, including doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and healthcare administrators.
3. Tourism and Hospitality: The vibrant tourism industry seeks hospitality professionals, tour guides, hotel staff, and individuals fluent in multiple languages.
4. Construction and Engineering: Ongoing infrastructure projects create opportunities for civil engineers, architects, project managers, and construction workers.
5. Education and Teaching: English language instructors, educators in international schools, and specialists in various academic fields are often sought after.
6. Finance and Banking: Turkey’s financial sector needs financial analysts, bankers, investment advisors, and professionals with expertise in finance and economics.
7. Manufacturing and Automotive: Skilled workers and engineers in manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace industries are in demand due to the country’s growing production sector.
8. Telecommunications: The expanding telecommunications industry requires professionals in network engineering, telecommunications technology, and mobile communications.

Challenges & Considerations when Working in Turkey

1. Language Barriers: While English is spoken in some workplaces, learning Turkish can be advantageous for better integration and communication.
2. Cultural Adaptation: Adjusting to Turkish customs, traditions, and work practices might pose initial challenges for expatriates.
3. Legal Framework: Understanding Turkish labor laws, regulations, and employment rights is crucial when working in the country.
4. Visa and Work Permit Procedures: Navigating the bureaucratic processes involved in obtaining and renewing visas or work permits can be intricate.
5. Cost of Living: While Turkey offers a reasonable cost of living, expenses in certain cities might be higher, impacting budgeting considerations.
6. Accommodation Options: Finding suitable and affordable accommodation, especially in metropolitan areas, can be competitive and require diligent search efforts.
7. Healthcare System: Familiarizing oneself with the Turkish healthcare system and ensuring access to adequate healthcare services is important.
8. Social Integration: Building a social network and integrating into the local community might require time and effort, particularly for expatriates new to the country.

Apply Procedure For Turkish Work Permit

. Employer’s Application:

• Employer Responsibility: The employing company or entity in Turkey initiates the work permit application process on behalf of the foreign employee.

2. Preparing Documents:

• Document Compilation: Both the employer and employee must gather required documentation for the application process.
  • Employer Documents: Company information, tax registry, commercial activity certificate, etc.
  • Employee Documents: Passport, job offer/employment contract, educational qualifications, health insurance, etc.

3. Online Application Submission:

• Online Application System: Employers submit the work permit application through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security’s online system (e-Government portal).

4. Application Review:

• Ministry Assessment: The Ministry reviews the application, assessing compliance with regulations and completeness of documentation.

5. Application Processing:

• Processing Time: The processing duration varies depending on the type of work permit applied for and other administrative factors.

6. In-Person Application (if required):

• Interview or Additional Documentation: In certain cases, the applicant may be requested for an in-person interview or to provide additional documents.

7. Permit Approval or Rejection:

• Permit Decision: Upon completion of the review, the Ministry issues a decision either approving or rejecting the work permit application.

8. Permit Collection:

• Permit Issuance: If approved, the work permit is issued electronically through the system.
• Notification: The employer and employee receive notification about the permit’s approval and its validity period.

9. Entry into Turkey and Registration:

• Entry Requirement: With the approved work permit, the employee can enter Turkey within the specified period.
• Residence Permit: Upon arrival, if required, the employee must obtain a residence permit from local authorities.

10. Start of Employment:

• Legal Work Commencement: After completing the necessary registrations, the employee can legally start working for the employer in Turkey.

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