Frequently Asked Questions About First Work Permit Application

What is the first work permit application and who can apply?
What documents are required for the first work permit application?
How does the first work permit application process work and how long does it take?
What are the legal obligations of the employer during the first work permit application process?
What can be done if the first work permit application is rejected?
Can an employer with Social Security Institution (SGK) debt apply for a first work permit?
Is it mandatory to have a lawyer for the first work permit application?
In which sectors can foreigners be employed?
What happens if the fee and card payment are not made after the first work permit application?
Is a contract mandatory between the foreign worker and the employer?
When is the work permit card delivered?
How to stay informed about work permit legislation changes?
Is there a difference between a work permit and a residence permit?
Can a second application be made after the first work permit application is rejected?
What is the administrative objection period and procedure for a rejected first work permit application?
What are the fees and card costs for the first work permit application?
How are Social Security premiums paid?
Can individuals without a residence permit apply for a first work permit?

What is a First Work Permit Application?

What is the first work permit application and what rights does it provide to foreigners in Turkey?

The first work permit application is the official application process submitted by foreign nationals who want to legally work for the first time at a workplace in Turkey to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. With this application, the foreign worker can legally work and be insured at a specific workplace and position in Turkey. Foreign workers with a work permit benefit from social security and all employee rights, while employers fulfill their legal obligations regarding employing foreigners. In Izmir and Karşıyaka, the first work permit application process can be smoothly handled with the support of a Karşıyaka lawyer, residence permit attorney, or Izmir lawyer.

Legal Basis of the First Work Permit Application

Which laws and regulations govern the first work permit application?

The first work permit application is regulated by the Law No. 6735 on International Labor Force and Law No. 4817 on Work Permits of Foreigners. Additionally, related regulations and the current circulars issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security govern the application procedures. Changes in legislation directly affect application requirements and evaluation criteria. Working with a residence permit lawyer in Izmir or a foreign law attorney in Karşıyaka ensures applications comply with up-to-date legal regulations.

Who Can Apply for the First Work Permit?

Who is eligible to apply for the first work permit and what are the conditions?

The first work permit application can be made by:

Foreigners legally holding residence permits in Turkey,
Foreigners signing a work contract for the first time with an employer in Turkey,
Foreign personnel to be employed by companies, businesses, associations, or institutions operating in Turkey,
Foreigners married to Turkish citizens without Turkish citizenship status,
Foreigners wishing to work in free zones operating in Turkey,
Foreigners working in professions requiring ministry approval.

Applicants must have a valid residence permit and a formal work contract with the employer. The employer must fulfill certain legal obligations. Preparation of the application file with a Karşıyaka citizenship law attorney or citizenship application consultant reduces the risk of rejection for the first application.

Requirements for the First Work Permit Application

What are the conditions required for the first work permit application?

Key requirements for the first application include:

Possession of a valid residence permit and passport,
Having a written work contract with the employer,
Employer having no outstanding Social Security (SGK) premium debt,
Employer employing sufficient personnel (usually at least 5 Turkish employees per foreigner),
Employer possessing activity certificates, tax registration, trade registry gazette, and signature circulars,
The job and position complying with national employment policies,
Submission of documents proving the foreigner's education, professional qualifications or experience (in required sectors).

Applications with missing or incorrect conditions are usually rejected or require additional documents. The process is safer with an Izmir residence permit lawyer, Karşıyaka work permit attorney, or Karşıyaka foreign law attorney.

Required Documents for the First Work Permit Application

What documents are required for the first work permit application?

Key documents to be submitted by the employer and foreign employee include:

Valid passport and residence permit card of the foreigner,
Signed employment contract between the foreigner and the employer,
Diplomas or professional qualification documents of the foreigner,
Biometric photograph,
Employer's activity certificate, tax registration, trade registry gazette, and signature circulars,
Documents related to employer's SGK premium payments,
Ministry application form (filled online),
Receipt of fee and work permit card payment,
Updated list of employer’s personnel,
Additional permits or licenses required for specific sectors.

Documents must be up-to-date and complete, and if necessary, submitted with notarized or sworn translator certified translations. The risk of missing documents is minimized with a Karşıyaka lawyer or citizenship application consultant.

How to Apply for the First Work Permit?

What is the step-by-step procedure for the first work permit application?

The first application process includes:

Preparation of Employment Contract:
Signing the work contract between the foreign employee and the employer.
Online Application:
The employer initiates the application through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security’s online system and enters the required information.
Uploading Documents:
All documents are uploaded electronically to complete the application.
Tracking the Application:
The process is monitored online with the application number; additional documents are provided if requested.
Payment of Fees and Card Cost:
Payments are made after application approval.
Delivery of the Work Permit Card:
Upon approval, the work permit card is prepared and delivered to the applicant or employer.

Working with a residence permit attorney in Izmir or a Karşıyaka lawyer accelerates the process and facilitates identifying missing documents.

Evaluation and Result of the First Work Permit Application

How does the evaluation process work after the first work permit application is submitted and when are results announced?

After completion, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security examines all documents and application details. The suitability of the workplace, employer’s obligations, the foreigner’s professional qualification, and the position's appropriateness are evaluated. If there is missing, incorrect, or suspicious information, additional documents are requested.

The evaluation process usually concludes within 30 days. It may be extended during busy periods or if additional documents are required. Upon approval, the work permit card is prepared and sent to the applicant or employer. In case of rejection, a reasoned decision is issued and administrative objection rights exist. Legal appeals against rejection decisions can be professionally conducted with a Karşıyaka citizenship law attorney or work permit attorney.

Common Problems and Solutions in the First Work Permit Application

What are the most common problems faced in the first work permit application and how can they be solved?

Common application issues include:

Submission of incomplete or incorrect documents,
Employer’s Social Security debt,
Insufficient number of personnel,
Application with misleading or forged documents,
Position not complying with regulations,
Insufficient professional qualifications of the foreigner,
Delayed or incomplete responses to additional document requests,
System errors in online application.

To avoid these problems, documents must be thoroughly checked before application, and employer obligations fully met. Applications with a Karşıyaka lawyer, Izmir residence permit attorney, or citizenship application consultant reduce risks and rejection rates.

Importance of Lawyer and Consultancy Support with K&L Legal Consultancy in First Work Permit Applications in Karşıyaka and Izmir

What are the advantages of working with K&L Legal Consultancy and why is lawyer support necessary in first work permit applications?

K&L Legal Consultancy provides professional support in first work permit applications in Izmir and Karşıyaka with experienced Karşıyaka lawyers, residence permit attorneys, and citizenship application consultants. Advantages include:

Complete and up-to-date preparation of documents,
Detailed analysis of the legal status of the employer and foreign employee,
Guided online application and appointment processes by lawyers,
Identification and quick correction of deficiencies,
Fast legal solutions in cases of rejection, cancellation, or delay,
Informing applicants about current legislation and regulatory changes,
Confidentiality and client-focused approach in all application procedures.

Applicants working with K&L Legal Consultancy benefit from completing their applications legally, quickly, and securely.

Initial Work Permit Application