Foreign Teacher Work Permit (2025)

In Turkey, it is possible to employ foreign teachers in private schools and international institutions. However, the process is not limited to the application for a work permit as in other professions. Higher Education Council (YÖK) equivalency certificate, prior authorization certificate and Ministry of National Education (MoNE) approval processes are mandatory for teachers.

1) Legal Framework

• Basic Law No. 1739 on National Education
• Regulation on Private Education Institutions
• International Labor Law (Law No. 6735)
• Relevant MoNE circulars and implementation principles

Summary Foreigners who will teach in Turkey must complete the recognition and prior authorization processes and then obtain a work permit.

2) What is a Prior Authorization Certificate?

Foreign teachers need a “prior authorization certificate” issued by the Ministry of National Education in order to start working. Without this document, foreign teachers cannot be employed in private schools or institutions.

The applications received by the governorates are forwarded to the Ministry and a preliminary authorization certificate is issued to eligible candidates.

3) Application Types and Requirements

a) Administrator in Foreign Schools and International Institutions

• Bachelor’s degree + at least 2 years of teaching experience (apostilled or consulate certified, with Turkish translation).
• School recognition certificate from YÖK.
• Passport photocopy.
• In some cases, YÖK equivalency certificate (an exception may be applied if there is a two-year teaching certificate).

b) Those to be Assigned as Teachers

• Bachelor’s degree + at least 2 years of teaching experience.
• Higher Education Council recognition certificate.
• Passport photocopy.
• Certificate of recognition (exception in some cases).

c) Expert Instructor

• Bachelor’s degree diploma (apostille + Turkish translation).
• Passport photocopy.
• YÖK recognition and equivalence certificate.
• If there is a 2-year teaching certificate, the equivalence requirement may not be required.

ç) Master Instructor (Sports/Art Fields)

• Diploma or certificate in the relevant field.
• Secondary education diploma (accepted in sports and arts).
• Passport photocopy.
• Higher Education Council recognition certificate.
• Equivalency certificate if necessary (exemption can be applied if there is an official teaching certificate for 2 years).

4) Application Process

1. Preparation of documents → Diploma, equivalence, translations, apostille procedures.
2. Institution application → The private school/institution submits the documents to the Provincial Directorate of National Education.
3. Governorate review → Files deemed appropriate are sent to the Ministry.
4. Pre-authorization document issued → within 5 working days by MoNE.
5. Apply for a work permit → through the Ministry of Family and Social Services.
6. Assignment → Teacher can start working with prior authorization + work permit.

5) Frequently Asked Questions

Can a foreign teacher work in a public school?

→ No. Foreign teachers can only work in private schools, international schools or institutions authorized by the Ministry of National Education.

Can I apply without an equivalency certificate?

→ The requirement of YÖK equivalency certificate may be exempted for candidates who document at least two years of formal teaching experience.

How long does the application process take?

→ The preliminary permit is usually finalized within 5-10 working days, while the work permit process can take 30-60 days.

6) Related Content (Internal Links)

• Work Permit Conditions
• Foreign Work Permit Application Process
• Work Permit for Foreign Student Graduates
• Employment of Foreigners in Turkey by Establishing a Company

7) Professional Support

For foreign teachers, the process can be complicated as it involves approvals from the Ministry of National Education, the Council of Higher Education and the Ministry of Family and Social Services. MFY Legal | Law Office we prepare your applications completely with our lawyers and ensure that they are finalized in a short time.