Guidelines for Employers Hiring Foreign Workers in Turkey
Hiring foreign employees can bring valuable skills and international perspectives to your business. However, employing foreign nationals in Türkiye (Turkey) requires careful compliance with legal procedures and documentation. Below are the essential points every employer should keep in mind before applying for a work permit for foreign workers.
✅ 1. Verify Eligibility of the Position and the Candidate
Not all job positions are open to foreign workers in Türkiye. Certain professions, such as law, pharmacy, and dentistry, are legally restricted to Turkish citizens. Before starting the process, employers should confirm that the position is eligible for a foreign employee and that the candidate meets all professional and educational qualifications required for the role.
🏢2. Ensure the Company Meets Legal Requirements (2025)
To apply for a work permit, the employer must meet several conditions set by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The company should:
Have a minimum paid-in capital of 500,000 TL, or a gross sales volume of at least 8,000,000 TL, or export income of at least USD 150,000 in the previous year.
Employ at least five Turkish citizens for each foreign employee requested. This requirement is checked at the time of application and throughout the employment period.
📤 3. Submit a Complete and Accurate Application
Work permit applications can be made either in Türkiye (if the foreigner already holds a valid residence permit for at least six months) or from abroad (through Turkish consulates). Employers are responsible for submitting the online application via the e-permit system and uploading all required documents, including:
A current trade registry gazette showing the latest company information,
The company’s activity certificate,
The most recent balance sheet and profit/loss statement,
The employment contract signed with the foreign worker.
📌 Incomplete or inconsistent documentation is one of the main reasons applications are delayed or rejected.
⚖️ Our team of attorneys provides professional assistance to ensure your online application is completed accurately and smoothly. See the details of our services here.
📊4. Observe Quotas and Sectoral Rules
Some industries, such as tourism, entertainment, and health, are subject to specific quotas or additional approval conditions. Employers should check current sector-specific regulations to avoid compliance issues.
💵 5. Respect Wage and Social Security Obligations
Employers must pay foreign employees at least the minimum salary level specifically set by the Ministry of Labor for foreign workers, which is usually higher than the national minimum wage and varies depending on the employee’s job title, qualifications, and sector. Additionally, once the work permit is approved, the employer must register the employee with the Social Security Institution (SGK) and pay the required contributions. Any failure to do so can result in fines or cancellation of the permit.
⏱️6. Track Permit Duration and Renewal Deadlines
Work permits are usually issued for one year initially and can be extended if employment continues. Employers should apply for renewal within 60 days before the permit expires to avoid interruptions in legal employment. If the permit expires, the foreign worker must stop working immediately.
🗂️ 7. Maintain Compliance and Documentation
The employer must keep all related records—such as salary payments, insurance contributions, and copies of permits—readily available for inspection.
❗ Non-compliance or false declarations can lead to administrative penalties and future application rejections.
💬 Final Thoughts
Employing a foreign worker in Türkiye can significantly benefit your business, but it also comes with clear legal responsibilities. By preparing complete documentation, meeting company criteria, and following deadlines carefully, employers can ensure a smooth and lawful hiring process.
⚖️ Professional Assistance
The work permit process in Türkiye can be complex. Our law office provides professional legal support to help you complete your online application accurately and in full compliance with all legal requirements.
If you are applying for a work permit, contact us for personalized guidance and support.
Learn more about our services here.
