Applying for a Work Permit from Abroad (2025) | Step by Step Guide

Foreign nationals who wish to work in Turkey and do not have a valid residence permit in Turkey must apply for a work visa through the Turkish foreign representative office in their country of nationality.

At the end of this process, the 16-digit reference number given to the foreigner is used for the employer’s application in Turkey through the e-Government / Foreigners’ Work Permit Automation System (e-Permit ).

1) Steps of the Application Process

1. A formal employment contract is signed between the foreigner and the employer in Turkey.
2. Foreign Office Application The foreigner applies for a work visa at the Turkish consulate in the country of residence. At the end of this application, a 16-digit reference number is given.
3. e-Government Application The employer (or authorized user) enters the Foreigners’ Work Permit Automation System via e-Government. From the “Overseas Application” tab, he/she uploads the required documents using the reference number and approves them with e-signature. 👉 For detailed process, see Work Permit Application Process.
4. Ministry Evaluation The application is evaluated by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The result can be viewed via e-Government / Application Tracking Menu.
5. After approval, the employer pays the relevant fee and valuable paper fee. The foreigner then obtains a work visa from the foreign representative office.
6. The issued work permit document is sent to the workplace address by PTT Cargo.
7. Social Security Institution (SSI) Notification Within 30 days after the foreigner enters Turkey, the employer notifies the Social Security Institution (SSI) and the foreigner is insured. For details, see SSI Notification of Foreigners.

2) Required Documents

For the foreigner

• Passport
• Diploma
• Biometric photo
• Employment contract

For the employer

• Tax plate
• Trade Registry Gazette
• Signature circular
• Balance sheet and income statement for the last year
• SSI registration number and employee list
• Prior authorization documents (if available: for sectors such as health, education, etc.)

3) Matters to be Considered

• The work permit application is completed after the work visa is obtained.
• The foreigner must enter Turkey within 6 months at the latest after the validity of the work permit begins. Otherwise, the permit is canceled.
• If the SSI entry notification is not made within 30 days at the latest, the employer will face an administrative fine.
• Incorrect/incomplete documents will lead to rejection of the application.

4) Related Guidelines

• Work Permit Conditions
• Work Permit Fees (2025)
• Work Permit Extension Application
• Work Permit Exemption
• Indefinite Work Permit

Professional Legal Support

Applications made from abroad involve a multi-step process including consular stages, e-Government integration, fee payments and SSI notification.

You can contact the lawyers ofMFY Legal | Law Office for timely and smooth finalization of your application.