Work Permit Benefits: Retire, Work in Turkey 2026

Work Permits Benefits in Turkey 2025

Turkey is still a popular choice for foreign workers and students thanks to its active economy and clear rules on hiring foreigners. The main law is International Labor Law No. 6735, which says every foreign employee must hold a work permit and, in most cases, a valid residence permit first.

Permit classes and current fees

If you apply through a Turkish consulate abroad, you will also pay a small entry-visa charge when you collect the permit.

Who files the request?

• Inside Turkey: After you have held a residence permit for at least six months, your employer submits the online form to the Ministry of Labor portal. Turkish Labor Law

• Outside Turkey: You start at the nearest Turkish consulate; the employer then completes the online steps in Turkey within ten working days.

Employer quota rule

The workplace must usually employ five Turkish staff for every foreign worker on the payroll. If the rule is not met, the application is refused.

Decision time

Most files are settled in about 30 days, though busy seasons can stretch this to 4–8 weeks. Starting early helps avoid gaps in legal status.

Jobs closed to foreigners

Certain roles remain off-limits, such as dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, veterinary care, law, notary work, private security, customs brokerage, and ship captaincy inside Turkish waters.

Why the permit is worth it

• Path to citizenship: Keep the permit for five continuous years and you may apply for Turkish citizenship.

• Retirement: Time worked on the permit counts toward your Turkish pension rights.

• Health cover: You, your spouse, and children under 18 get free care in state hospitals.

• Family unity: Your spouse and children can hold family residence permits while you work.

Final word

A work permit is the legal key to earning an income in Turkey. Know the fees, let your employer handle the online filing, and check the quota and job limits before you begin. With the paperwork in order, you and your family can enjoy secure work, health cover, and—after five years—the chance to become full citizens.