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Work and business in Turkey for foreign residents: what residence does and does not allow

In short

A property-based or tourist residence permit does not give the right to work in Turkey. Working for a Turkish employer requires a work permit, which the employer applies for with the Ministry of Labour, and the work permit takes the place of a residence permit. A foreigner can set up a company in Turkey, but working in it requires a permit, subject to conditions. Some professions are restricted to citizens or require recognition of qualifications. Remote work for a foreign employer or income from your home country has tax implications worth discussing with an accountant.

Written by Mohammed Bukhari, Real estate consultant

Last reviewed October 7, 2026

One of the things that most often confuses families moving to Turkey: does residence allow you to work? And what about setting up a company? The short answer: residence is one thing, and the right to work is another.

Residence does not give the right to work

Short-term residence permits, including property-based residence, allow you to live in Turkey, not to work. Working without a permit is a violation with consequences for both the worker and the employer. See the guide to renewing property-based residence.

Work permits

  • The employer applies in Turkey to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, online.
  • It takes the place of a residence permit for its whole duration.
  • Types: fixed-term; indefinite, for those who meet its conditions; and the independent work permit for certain professionals.

The Turquoise Card (Turkuaz Kart)

A scheme for highly qualified people and investors that meet specific criteria. It gives the holder the right to work and reside, and covers their family, subject to conditions.

Setting up a company

  • A foreigner can set up a company in Turkey through almost the same procedures as a citizen.
  • Working in it requires a work permit, and the conditions are assessed according to the company and its activity.
  • An accountant is an essential partner from day one.

Restricted professions

Some professions are reserved for citizens or require recognition of qualifications and special licences, such as certain medical and legal professions. Check before you build a business plan on them.

Remote work and income from abroad

  • Working remotely for an employer in your home country is a matter that depends on your situation and how long you stay.
  • Living in Turkey for a long time may make you a tax resident.
  • Consult an accountant about your case.

After citizenship

Citizens work without a permit. See the guide to life after Turkish citizenship.

Summary

Separate the housing decision from the work decision: property-based residence is for living, a work permit is for working, and a company needs a permit for you to work in it. Plan your source of income before you move, and consult an accountant about your tax position. For the full picture of life here, read the guide to living in Turkey for Arab families.

Contact us and we will help you arrange your housing and put you in touch with specialists in employment and company matters.

Sources

Related guides

More on this topic

  • e-Devlet for foreigners: how to get your password and what you can do with it

    A foreigner with a residence permit and a foreigner ID number (usually starting with 99) can use the e-Devlet portal (turkiye.gov.tr). You get your first password from any post office (PTT) with your passport or residence card, or you log in with an e-signature, a mobile signature or through some banks. Through it you can check your property at the tapu (title deed registry), book hospital appointments, and see your taxes, address and utility subscriptions. Residence applications themselves are made on the immigration authority’s separate online system.

    Last reviewed Oct 7, 2026

  • Address registration in Turkey for foreigners: why it matters and how to do it

    A foreign resident must register their address with the population directorate and update it within a short deadline after moving (20 working days). The registered address underpins residence renewal, enrolling children at school, the family doctor and official notifications. Owners need the title deed, tenants the rental contract, usually with a utility bill for the address. Some neighbourhoods are closed to new address registrations by foreigners, so check before buying or renting.

    Last reviewed Oct 7, 2026

  • Renewing a property-based residence permit in Turkey: timing, requirements and reasons for refusal (2026)

    A property-based residence permit is renewed by applying through the e-İkamet system before your current permit expires, ideally about two months before the expiry date. You need to still own the residential property, have valid health insurance covering the new permit period, a registered address and up-to-date documents. The most common reasons for refusal: selling the property, unsuitable insurance, applying after the permit has expired, or the property being in a neighbourhood closed to foreigners’ residence permits.

    Last reviewed Oct 7, 2026

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