Indefinite Work Permit
Frequently Asked Questions About Unlimited Work Permit
- What is an unlimited work permit and who can apply?
- What are the requirements for an unlimited work permit?
- What documents are needed for the application?
- How is the unlimited work permit application made?
- How long does the application process take?
- What rights does the unlimited work permit provide?
- What can be done if the application is rejected?
- Under what conditions can the unlimited work permit be canceled?
- Does a lack of Social Security payments prevent application?
- Is a lawyer necessary for applications in İzmir and Karşıyaka?
- What is the difference between a work permit and a residence permit?
- Can you start a business with an unlimited work permit?
- Does changing address affect the unlimited work permit?
- How can you stay informed about legal changes related to the unlimited work permit?
- Can you reapply after a rejection?
- Does a long stay abroad affect the unlimited work permit?
- What happens if there are public safety concerns in the application?
- Is there a family reunification right with the unlimited work permit?
- How much are the fees for the permit and card?
What is an Unlimited Work Permit?
What is it and what rights does it grant to foreigners in Turkey?
An unlimited work permit is a work right given to foreigners who meet certain conditions in Turkey. It has no time limit and does not require reapplication. It allows the holder to work freely without being tied to one employer, change jobs freely, and work in any sector or position. It offers labor freedom similar to Turkish citizens, including social security benefits, the ability to establish a business, and access to public services.
Foreigners holding this permit can safely enjoy all their legal rights with the support of lawyers in İzmir or Karşıyaka.
Legal Basis
Which laws regulate the unlimited work permit?
It is regulated by Law No. 6735 on International Workforce and related regulations. Articles 10 and 11 detail the application conditions, rights, obligations, and evaluation criteria. Circulars and current practices by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security are also followed.
Legal changes directly affect the application process, so working with a residence permit lawyer in İzmir or a foreign law attorney in Karşıyaka helps keep the application up-to-date and reduces errors.
Who Can Apply?
Who is eligible and what are the conditions?
Applicants must have:
- At least eight years of continuous legal residence or six years of continuous work permit,
- Continuously worked with a permit for the last six years,
- Regular income sufficient to cover living expenses,
- Fulfilled social security obligations,
- No public order or security obstacles.
Working with a citizenship law attorney or consultant in Karşıyaka increases the chance of success.
Application Requirements
- Continuous work permit for the last six years,
- Regular social security payments during work permit period,
- No security or public order impediments,
- Valid passport or ID,
- No social security debt,
- Registered address and updated contact info in Turkey.
Complete work permit and residence permit archives, social security records, and income documents must be prepared before applying. Lawyers in Karşıyaka or İzmir ensure complete and correct files.
Required Documents
- Unlimited work permit application form (online via Ministry system),
- Valid passport or ID,
- Copies of work permit cards for the last six years,
- Social security records and payment proofs,
- Current address document,
- Recent biometric photo,
- Proof of income and livelihood,
- Payment receipts,
- Diplomas and professional certificates if any,
- Criminal record showing no public security obstacles.
Additional documents may be requested by the Ministry depending on the case. Completeness and accuracy are key.
How to Apply Step-by-Step
- Prepare all documents completely,
- Apply online and upload documents,
- Ministry reviews and may request extra documents,
- Pay fees upon acceptance,
- Receive unlimited work permit card.
Working with a lawyer avoids mistakes and delays.
Evaluation and Result
- Ministry reviews work and social security records,
- Processing usually takes 30–60 days,
- Approval leads to card issuance,
- Rejection comes with reason and right to appeal,
- Legal support speeds up appeals.
Rights, Cancellation, and Termination
- Freedom to change jobs and sectors,
- Right to start own business,
- Social security and labor protection similar to citizens,
- Cancellation in case of public security threat, false info, or 5 years of non-work,
- New application needed after cancellation.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Incorrect calculation of permit or residence duration,
- Missing or late social security payments,
- Incomplete or outdated documents,
- Outdated address info,
- Administrative or legal security problems,
- Misleading statements in application,
- Ministry requests additional documents causing delays.
Early professional check minimizes risks.
Importance of K&L Legal Consultancy Support
- Complete and up-to-date document preparation,
- Legal compliance checks for employer and applicant,
- Lawyer-guided online process management,
- Fast legal solutions for rejection or delays,
- Continuous updates on legal changes,
- Confidential and client-focused service.
With K&L, applicants secure their right to work legally and freely in Turkey.