Work visas
Turkish Work Permit (Fixed-Term)
The standard employer-sponsored work permit granted by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, which also serves as a residence permit while it remains valid.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Fees, salary thresholds and processing times are not stated here because they were not confirmed on an official page; verify current figures on csgb.gov.tr before publishing.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Turkey government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Work Permit (Çalışma İzni) - Definite / Fixed-Term
- Route type
- Employer-sponsored work permit
- Issuing authority
- Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Directorate General of International Labour Force
- First permit validity
- Up to one year at first application
- Extensions
- Up to two years on first extension, up to three years on subsequent extensions
- As stated by the Ministry of Labour
- Doubles as residence permit
- Yes, while valid
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals with a job offer from a Turkish employer
- Foreigners already legally in Türkiye who wish to switch to employment
- Applicants whose role is assessed favourably against Turkish labour-market conditions
Requirements
- A definite employer and workplace in Türkiye that sponsors the application
- For in-country applicants, a valid residence permit held for at least six months (except short-term tourism-purpose permits)
- Supporting documents on the role, employer and applicant's qualifications
- Application assessed against labour-market, sectoral and economic conditions
What you can do
- Work legally for the sponsoring employer at the specified workplace
- Reside in Türkiye without a separate residence permit while the permit is valid
- Apply to extend the permit before it expires
How to apply
- Employer applies electronically through the Ministry's e-work-permit (e-İzin) system using an electronic signature
- Foreigners abroad may first apply through a Turkish mission, with the employer completing the domestic application
- Submit supporting documents on the job and applicant
- Await assessment and decision by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.