Work Authorization for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Turkey

1. What different types of work authorization are available for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders in Turkey?


U.S. citizens and Green Card holders in Turkey are eligible for the following types of work authorizations:
1. Long-Term Residence Permit: This permit grants holders the right to live and work in Turkey for a period of up to five years.
2. Temporary Work Permit: This permit grants holders the right to live and work in Turkey for a period of up to six months.
3. Permanent Residence Permit: This permit grants holders the right to live and work in Turkey on a permanent basis.
4. Professional Work Permit: This permit grants holders the right to live and work in Turkey as a professional or specialist, including in fields such as science, medicine, and engineering.
5. Student Work Permit: This permit grants holders the right to work part-time in Turkey while studying full-time at an accredited Turkish university or college.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for obtaining a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

In general, U.S. citizens and Green Card holders must obtain a work permit from the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security to be eligible to work in Turkey. Other requirements include a valid passport, a valid visa, proof of employment, and a residence permit (ikamet). Additionally, U.S. citizens must obtain a visa from a Turkish Consulate before traveling to Turkey and must register with the local police station upon arrival in Turkey.

3. Is a valid passport required for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Turkey?

Yes. All travelers to Turkey, including U.S. citizens and Green Card holders, must have a valid passport to obtain a work visa. For more information about visa requirements for Turkey, please refer to the U.S. Department of State website.

4. Is a criminal background check necessary to obtain a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

No, a criminal background check is not necessary to obtain a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders. However, all applicants should provide a police certificate from their country of citizenship or permanent residence as part of the visa application process.

5. What is the application process for obtaining a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

The application process for obtaining a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders is as follows:
1. Submit a visa application form and provide a valid passport.
2. Submit the original or a notarized copy of your university diploma.
3. Submit the original or a notarized copy of your work contract, signed by both you and your employer.
4. Submit a document from your employer that outlines your position and salary.
5. Submit original or notarized copies of documents proving your financial solvency.
6. Obtain a criminal background check from your home country and submit it with your application.
7. Pay the visa application fee at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
8. Attend an interview at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your home country, if required.

6. How long does it take to obtain a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

The process for obtaining a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders usually takes between 1 and 3 months, depending on the requirements and the workload of the relevant Turkish consulate.

7. Is there a limit on the number of years that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can remain on a work visa in Turkey?

Yes, the U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can only remain on a work visa in Turkey for a maximum of three years. After the three-year period, applicants need to apply for an extension or else they will have to leave the country.

8. Can U.S. citizens and Green Card holders renew their work visas in Turkey?

No, U.S. Citizens and Green Card holders are not eligible to renew their work visas in Turkey. U.S. Citizens and Green Card holders are only allowed to stay in Turkey for 90 days as tourists. If they wish to remain in Turkey beyond 90 days, they must obtain a residence permit from the local Migration Office.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can hold while on a work visa in Turkey?

Yes. U.S. citizens and Green Card holders are subject to the same work authorization requirements in Turkey as non-U.S. citizens. This means that the type of job one can hold while on a work visa in Turkey is determined by the Turkish government. Generally, U.S. citizens and Green Card holders are not allowed to work as private tutors, lawyers, or accountants without obtaining additional authorization from the Turkish government. It is also important to note that certain professions, such as medicine and engineering, require additional licensing or certification in order to practice in Turkey.

10. Are there any fees associated with applying for a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

Yes, there are fees associated with applying for a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders. The fee is currently 100 Turkish Lira, which is approximately $13.50 USD.

11. Is there an age limit for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders applying for a work visa in Turkey?

Yes, there is an age limit for U.S. citizens or Green Card holders applying for a work visa in Turkey. The applicant must be between the ages of 18 and 45.

12. Are there any limitations on the number of hours U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can work while on a work visa in Turkey?

According to the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security, foreign nationals are limited to a maximum of 40 hours per week.

13. Is there a minimum salary requirement for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Turkey?

No, there is no minimum salary requirement for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Turkey. However, applicants who wish to work in Turkey must obtain an employment permit from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The employer must prove that the position cannot be filled by a Turkish citizen and must meet certain labor laws. Additionally, the employer may have to submit proof of the salary offered to the worker.

14. What documentation must be provided to apply for a work visa in Turkey for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

U.S. citizens and Green Card holders must provide the following documentation to apply for a work visa in Turkey:
– A valid passport
– Two passport-sized photographs
– An application form
– Evidence of sufficient funds to support living expenses while in Turkey
– A letter of invitation from the Turkish employer
– Proof of qualifications and experience related to the position being offered
– A medical certificate confirming that they are in good health
– A criminal background check
– Evidence of residence or the intention to reside in Turkey
– Evidence of accommodation or the intention to find accommodation in Turkey

15. Does the employer need to register with the local government when hiring U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Turkey?

Yes, the employer must register with the local government when hiring U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Turkey. This registration is known as a “work permit” and is necessary for any foreign employee to work legally in Turkey.

16. How long does it take for an employer to receive approval to hire U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Turkey?

The process for hiring U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Turkey typically takes around 8-12 weeks.

17 How long is a work visa valid for U.S citizen and Green Card holders in Turkey?

For U.S. citizens, the maximum duration of stay in Turkey on a work visa is 180 days in a one year period. For Green Card holders, the maximum duration of stay in Turkey on a work visa is 90 days in a one year period.

18 Is labor registration required for US Citizens or Green Card Holders working on a Work Visa in Turkey?

Yes, US citizens or Green Card holders working on a Work Visa in Turkey must register for labor in order to work legally in Turkey. This process involves obtaining a residence permit, paying taxes, and registering with the Social Security Institution. The employer is responsible for registering the employee at the local Labor Office and ensuring that the employee has all the required documentation and paperwork.

19 Does the employee have to be physically present in Turkey when applying for a Work Visa as US Citizen or Green Card Holder?

No, the employee does not need to be physically present in Turkey when applying for a Work Visa as a US citizen or Green Card holder. The applicant can apply for the visa online or through a Turkish embassy or consulate office in their home country.

20 Are there any restrictions on the types of businesses that US Citizens or Green Card Holders can open while working on a Work Visa in Turkey?

Yes, there are some restrictions for US Citizens and Green Card Holders regarding the types of businesses they can open while working on a work visa in Turkey. Specifically, they must apply for a special permit from the Ministry of Economy in order to start any business in Turkey. These permits must be granted prior to starting any business activity. Additionally, US citizens and Green Card Holders may be required to obtain a work permit from the Turkish government if they wish to operate the business as an employer.