Turkey Work Visa

A Turkey Work Visa is a legal document that allows foreign nationals to work in Turkey. Its purpose is to regulate and authorize employment, ensuring that foreign workers meet the necessary criteria and that their employment is lawful. There are various types of work visas depending on the nature of employment, such as for short-term assignments, long-term contracts, or specialized roles in specific sectors like education or tourism.

The importance of a Turkey Work Visa cannot be overstated, as it not only grants you the legal right to work in Turkey but also serves as a residence permit. To obtain a Turkey Work Visa, you must apply through a Turkish consulate in your home country, submitting essential documents such as your passport, visa application form, and a letter from your Turkish employer. After your application, your employer must submit additional documents to the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

VisitsVisa can assist in this process by providing expert guidance, ensuring all your documents are in order, and facilitating communication with Turkish authorities to streamline your application.

Application Process for Turkey Work Visa

Foreign nationals must apply for a work permit through the nearest Turkish mission in their country of residence or nationality. The process involves two key steps:

1.Submitting Your Application:

  • Where to Apply: Visit the nearest Turkish consular office to start your application.
  • Required Documents: You will need your passport, a completed visa application form, and a letter from your prospective employer in Turkey.
  • Employer's Responsibility: After you submit your application, your employer in Turkey must provide additional documents to the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) within ten working days.

2.Processing and Approval:

  • MLSS Review: The Ministry of Labor and Social Security will review your application and make a decision within thirty days.
  • Fees and Permits: If approved, you will need to pay an Entry Visa Fee, Work Permit Certificate Fee, and Residence Fee at the Turkish consular office. The Work Permit Card you receive will also serve as your residence permit in Turkey.

Important Considerations

Work Annotated Visa: The "Work Annotated Visa" issued by the Turkish consulate allows you to enter Turkey and stay for up to 90 days. However, this visa is only for entry purposes, and you must register with the local police department within one month of arrival to obtain your residence permit.

Sector-Specific Permits:

  • Free Zones: If you will be working in one of Turkey's Free Zones, your work permit will be issued by the Ministry of Economy.
  • Culture and Tourism: Those working in sectors under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism will receive their permits from the respective Ministry.
  • Higher Education: Foreign nationals employed by universities in Turkey will have their permits issued by the Higher Education Board.

Documents Required for Work Visa

When applying for a Turkey Work Visa, you will need to provide several essential documents to ensure your application is complete and meets the requirements of Turkish authorities. Here’s a list of the key documents required:

1. Passport: A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your intended stay in Turkey.

2. Visa Application Form: A completed and signed Turkey visa application form, available from the Turkish consulate or online.

3. Letter of Employment: A formal job offer or employment contract from your Turkish employer, detailing your job position, salary, and terms of employment.

4. Passport-size Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos that meet the specifications set by the Turkish consulate.

5. Work Permit Application: Your employer in Turkey must apply for a work permit on your behalf with the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) within ten working days of your visa application.

6. Educational and Professional Certificates: Copies of your educational qualifications and any professional certificates relevant to the job.

7. Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance that covers your stay in Turkey.

8. Residence Permit Application: Once your work visa is approved, you must register with the local police department in Turkey to obtain a residence permit.

9. Additional Documents: Depending on your job sector, additional documents like a tax registration certificate (for company-sponsored visas) or specific permits for working in Free Zones, cultural sectors, or universities may be required.

Eligibility of Turkey Work Visa

Final Steps

Before beginning work in Turkey, ensure that all necessary registrations and permits are completed to avoid any legal complications. You can find a detailed list of required documents and further guidance on the Ministry of Labor and Social Security’s website.

By following these steps, your journey to securing a Turkey Work Visa can be straightforward, allowing you to focus on your new career in Turkey.

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