Frequently Asked Questions About Work Permit Extension Application

What is a work permit extension application and who can apply?
What documents are required for a work permit extension application?
When should the work permit extension application be submitted?
How does the work permit extension process work and how long does it take?
Can a work permit extension application be submitted if there are Social Security premium debts?
What happens if the work permit extension application is submitted late?
What are the employer’s legal obligations during the work permit extension application?
Is the residence permit period also extended during the work permit extension application?
Is there a right to appeal if the work permit extension application is rejected?
How are fees and card payments made for the work permit extension application?
How can one stay informed about changes in work permit legislation?
What happens if the employee count is insufficient during the work permit extension application?
Is reapplication possible if the work permit extension is not approved?
Is a new application required if the employer changes during the work permit?
What are the sector-specific additional document requirements in work permit extension applications?
What should be done if there is an online system error during the work permit extension application?
How is the extension process handled if the foreign worker’s position changes?
Is the residence permit extended with the work permit extension application?

What is a Work Permit Extension Application?

What is a work permit extension application and why is it necessary for foreigners in Turkey?

A work permit extension application is the official process for foreigners who already have a work permit in Turkey to continue their work rights before their permit expires. Foreigners working under a fixed-term work permit must submit this application timely to legally continue working for the same employer or in the same position. With support from a Karşıyaka lawyer, residence permit lawyer in İzmir, or other legal assistance, the application process is ensured to be complete and legally compliant.

Legal Basis of Work Permit Extension Application

Under which laws and regulations is the work permit extension application regulated?

The work permit extension application is regulated under Law No. 6735 on International Workforce, Law No. 4817 on Work Permits for Foreigners, and related regulations. Additionally, circulars and current practices issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security are considered. Legal amendments may directly impact application requirements and evaluation criteria. Collaborating with a residence permit lawyer in İzmir or foreign law attorney in Karşıyaka ensures up-to-date compliance.

Who Can Apply for Work Permit Extension?

Who is eligible and what are the requirements?

Applications can be submitted by:

Foreign nationals currently holding a valid fixed-term work permit in Turkey,
Those continuing to work with the same employer or in the same position,
Applicants submitting the application at earliest 60 days and latest before the permit expiration date.

Applications submitted after the expiration are invalid and must follow first-time application procedures. Applicants must hold valid residence permits, employment contracts, and fulfill all legal obligations. A Karşıyaka citizenship lawyer or consultant can help prepare a complete application file.

Requirements for Work Permit Extension Application

What are the main conditions for the extension application?

Key conditions include:

Application submitted at least before permit expiry and no earlier than 60 days before,
Valid employment contract between employer and foreign worker,
Employer free of Social Security premium debts and meeting legal obligations,
Valid residence permit and passport for the foreign worker,
Compliance with legislation during the previous permit term,
Updated sector-specific professional documents, licenses, or certificates if required,
Complete payment of social security premiums.

Incomplete or incorrect applications are rejected or require additional documentation. Assistance by legal professionals reduces errors.

Documents Required for Work Permit Extension

What documents must be submitted?

Essential documents include:

Valid passport and residence permit card of the foreigner,
Updated employment contract,
Previous work permit card or related documents,
Social Security premium payment proofs,
Employer’s current activity certificate, tax certificate, trade registry gazette, and signature circular,
Biometric photograph,
Ministry application form (completed online),
Payment receipt for fees and card charges,
Professional licenses, diplomas, or certificates if necessary,
Employer’s staff list (if requested).

All documents must be current, complete, and in the required electronic format. Legal support minimizes the risk of missing documents.

How to Apply for Work Permit Extension?

Step-by-step extension application process:

Update employment contract:
Prepare and sign a new contract between the foreign worker and employer.
Submit online application:
Employer initiates the extension via the Ministry of Labor and Social Security’s online system.
Upload documents:
Upload all updated documents electronically.
Follow application status:
Track application with reference number and respond to additional document requests.
Pay fees:
Pay required fees upon preliminary approval.
Receive new work permit card:
If approved, the new card is issued to the applicant or employer.

Working with a residence permit lawyer in İzmir or a Karşıyaka attorney expedites the process and resolves issues promptly.

Evaluation and Result of Extension Application

How is the application evaluated and when are results announced?

The Ministry reviews the file after submission, evaluating the employer’s legal status, Social Security payments, worker’s employment history, and the updated contract. Additional documents may be requested for deficiencies or doubts.

Evaluation usually completes within 30 days. Results can be tracked online. If approved, a new permit card is issued. Upon rejection, a reasoned decision is provided with a right to administrative appeal. Lawyers can assist in appeals.

Common Problems and Solutions in Extension Application

What are common problems and how to solve them?

Common issues include:

Late submission of the application,
Incomplete or outdated documents,
Social Security premium arrears or non-payments,
Submission with misleading or false information,
Failure to update sector-specific documents,
Online application or upload errors,
Insufficient number of employees by the employer,
Delayed response to Ministry’s document requests.

To prevent issues, verify documents beforehand, meet deadlines, and fulfill employer obligations fully. Legal assistance minimizes risks.

Importance of Support from K&L Legal Consultancy in Extension Applications

What are the advantages of working with K&L Legal Consultancy and why is legal support necessary?

K&L Legal Consultancy provides professional support in İzmir and Karşıyaka with experienced lawyers specializing in work permit extension applications, including residence permit lawyers and citizenship application consultants in Karşıyaka. Benefits include:

Complete and up-to-date preparation of documents,
Timely and complete submission of applications,
Legal analysis of employer and worker status,
Prompt identification and correction of deficiencies,
Efficient legal solutions for rejection, delay, or cancellation,
Continuous updates on legislative and procedural changes,
Confidentiality and client-focused approach throughout.

With K&L Legal Consultancy, every step of the extension process is managed legally, swiftly, and reliably.