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Turkey work visa for Indians application process with Lex Visas

Turkey Work Visa Guide by Lex Visas

TYPES OF WORK VISA / WORK PERMITS IN TURKEY

A Turkey work visa allows foreign nationals to legally reside and work in Turkey with prior approval from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.

  1. Definite-Term Work Permit 

    Issued for up to 1 year for a specific employer and position; renewable based on continued employment.

  2. Indefinite Work Permit 

    Granted to foreign nationals who have legally worked in Turkey for long durations and meet residency criteria.

  3. Independent Work Permit 

    For entrepreneurs or self-employed professionals contributing to Turkey’s economy.

  4. Turquoise Card 

    For highly qualified professionals, investors, and individuals with exceptional skills; offers long-term residence and work rights.

ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS 

  • Valid job offer from a Turkish employer
  • Employer sponsorship and online work permit application
  • Valid passport
  • Relevant qualifications and experience
  • Employment contract
  • Compliance with Turkish labour quotas (foreign-to-local ratio)

STEP-BY-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS

  • Employer submits an online work permit application in Turkey.
  • Employee applies for a work visa at the Turkish consulate (if abroad).
  • Submission of supporting documents within the prescribed timeline.
  • Ministry review and approval.
  • Visa issuance and travel to Turkey.
  • Residence registration upon arrival.

PROCESSING TIME AND VALIDITY

  • Processing time: Approximately 4 – 6 weeks.
  • Initial work permit validity: Up to 1 year.
  • First renewal: Up to 2 years.
  • Subsequent renewal: Up to 3 years.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A formal pre-visa medical test is not always mandatory, but health insurance coverage is required. Authorities may request medical documentation in specific cases.
There is no fixed personal bank balance requirement for standard employer-sponsored work permits. The employer must meet certain capital and financial criteria.
Applications should ideally begin at least 2–3 months before the intended start date to accommodate processing timelines.
Foreign nationals with a confirmed job offer from a Turkish employer, meeting qualification and sponsorship requirements, are eligible to apply.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Lex Visas Pvt. Ltd. is not a law firm. Content is based on industry experience and practical case handling. Any actions taken based on this information are at the reader’s sole discretion and responsibility.