Work Permit and Residence Permit in Turkey, whether you are a tourist visiting for a short while or a foreigner looking to live and work in Istanbul, legal procedures and permits are an essential part of your journey. As an Istanbul Lawyer specializing in work permits and residency, we have compiled this comprehensive guide to assist you in understanding the intricacies of acquiring work and residence permits in Istanbul.
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ToggleWork Permit and Residence Permit in Turkey
Turkish legislation, specifically Law No. 6735, Law No. 4875, Law No. 6458, Law No. 5901, and Law No. 2547, provide the framework for foreigners looking to reside and work in Turkey. These laws outline the requirements and procedures for obtaining work permits and residency, which can be complex and require professional legal assistance.
The Role of an Istanbul Work Permit Lawyer
An Istanbul Work Permit Lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in assisting foreigners with the process of obtaining their work permits and residency in Istanbul. They guide you through the entire process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met, and any potential issues are addressed promptly. Their expertise and experience in navigating the Turkish legal system make them an invaluable asset during your work permit application process.
Applying for a Residence Permit
A residence permit, known as “ikamet tezkeresi” in Turkish, is a document that allows a foreigner to legally reside in Turkey for a specified period. The permit is issued by the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in each city, and in Istanbul, it’s the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.
Who Needs a Residence Permit?
According to the Law on Foreigners’ Residence and Travel, non-Turkish citizens who wish to stay in Turkey beyond their visa period or visa exemption period need to apply for a residence permit. They must do so within one month of entering Turkey and before they start any job.
How to Apply for a Residence Permit
The procedure for applying for a residence permit changed completely with a new regulation that came into effect on May 18, 2015. Applications are now taken by the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in each city. The application process involves filling an application form online, submitting necessary documents, and attending an interview.
Necessary Documents for a Residence Permit Application
The following documents are required for a residence permit application:
- Residence Permit Application Form
- Passport or equivalent document
- Four photos (taken within the last six months with a white background and biometric)
- Declaration of sufficient and regular financial resources for the duration of the stay
- Valid Health Insurance
- Additional supporting documents based on the type of residence permit applied for
Applying for a Work Permit
A work permit is a document that allows foreigners to work legally in Turkey. According to the Law No. 4817 on Work Permits of Foreigners, foreigners working in Turkey, either independently or as an employee, as well as employers employing foreigners, are required to obtain a work permit.
Who Needs a Work Permit?
Any foreign national who wishes to work in Turkey, either as an employee or independently, needs to obtain a work permit. This also applies to foreigners who are undergoing vocational training with an employer.
How to Apply for a Work Permit
Work permit applications are taken by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The application must be made through an employer or a business. There is no system in Turkey that allows foreigners to work in any business they wish. A foreigner cannot apply for a work permit on their own without an employer.
Necessary Documents for a Work Permit Application
The following documents are required for a work permit application:
- Work Permit Application Form
- Passport or equivalent document
- Four photos (taken within the last six months with a white background and biometric)
- Declaration of sufficient and regular financial resources for the duration of the stay
- Valid Health Insurance
- Additional supporting documents based on the type of work permit applied for
Extending Your Work Permit
If you wish to extend your work permit, you must apply for an extension within 15 days of the expiry of your current permit. Applications for extension made after this period will be treated as first-time applications.
Legal Support from Han & Partners Law Firm
Navigating the legal framework for work and residence permits in Istanbul can be complex. At Han & Partners Law Firm, we have a team of expert lawyers who specialize in this field. Our Istanbul Lawyers provide comprehensive legal support to foreigners seeking to live and work in Istanbul.
Our team of English and Turkish-speaking attorneys is well-versed with the intricacies of Turkish law and has an excellent track record of service. We provide professional legal services in a variety of areas, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible legal assistance.
You can reach out to us through our Contact Page for any legal queries related to your work permit or residence permit applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a work permit to work in Istanbul?
Yes, any foreign national who wishes to work in Istanbul needs to obtain a work permit. This applies to both employees and self-employed individuals.
2. How do I apply for a work permit?
Work permit applications are taken by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The application must be made through an employer or a business. A foreigner cannot apply for a work permit on their own without an employer.
3. How do I extend my work permit?
If you wish to extend your work permit, you must apply for an extension within 15 days of the expiry of your current permit. Applications for extension made after this period will be treated as first-time applications.
4. Do I need a residence permit to live in Istanbul?
Yes, any non-Turkish citizen wishing to stay in Istanbul beyond their visa period or visa exemption period needs to apply for a residence permit.
5. How do I apply for a residence permit?
The application for a residence permit is made online through the website of the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in each city. After the online application, you will need to submit the necessary documents and attend an interview.
Conclusion
Living and working in Istanbul can be a fulfilling and exciting experience. However, the legal procedures involved in acquiring work and residence permits can be complex. At Han & Partners Law Firm, our team of experienced attorneys can assist you throughout the process, ensuring a smooth transition into your new life in Istanbul. We invite you to contact our law firm for professional legal assistance. We look forward to serving you.
