Essential Documents International Job Seekers Need in Turkey

Looking to start a new chapter in Turkey’s dynamic job market? Before you pack your bags, it is important to ensure you have all the right paperwork in order. Navigating Turkey’s job application process requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to legal documentation.  

This guide will help you gather the essential documents you need to secure employment and stay compliant. 

Work Visa and Residence Permit

To legally work in Turkey, you must obtain a work visa and a residence permit. These are not optional and should be your top priority. The work visa application should be submitted through the Turkish consulate in your home country, often with support from your future employer.

Once you arrive in Turkey, the residence permit must be applied for within 30 days. This document confirms your right to stay and work in the country beyond your visa duration.

Passport and Passport-Sized Photos

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. Always carry at least four recent passport-sized photos, as they are frequently required for visa applications, permits, and ID cards.

Translated and Notarised Educational Certificates

To prove your qualifications, you’ll need your degrees, diplomas, or training certificates translated into Turkish. These translations must be completed by sworn translators and then notarised for official use.

Many job roles, especially in education, healthcare, and engineering, will not accept foreign-language documents. This is where turkish translation services become essential, helping you avoid delays in job offers or legal registration.

Criminal Record Certificate

Some employers in Turkey, particularly those in childcare, finance, or healthcare, may ask for a criminal record certificate from your country of residence. This document proves that you have no serious convictions that could affect your employment eligibility.

Make sure to have it translated and, if possible, legalised or apostilled for international use.

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Medical Report and Health Insurance

A basic health check may be required depending on your role. In some sectors, like hospitality or construction, employers ask for a medical report proving you’re fit to work.

Alongside this, you’ll also need valid health insurance, which could be private or part of your employer’s social security coverage. Without insurance, you cannot complete the residence permit process.

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Employment Contract

Ensure your employment contract is in writing, preferably in both English and Turkish. This document should outline your role, salary, working hours, and terms of termination. A dual-language contract protects your rights and helps with applications for work and residence permits.

Tax Number and Bank Account

Once in Turkey, you’ll need to get a Turkish tax number from the local tax office. This is necessary to open a local bank account, receive your salary, and register for social security. The process is straightforward but requires your passport and an address in Turkey. Some banks also ask for your work permit and residence details.

Stay Ahead with the Right Paperwork

Relocating for work comes with challenges, but being prepared makes all the difference. By collecting the essential documents international job seekers need in Turkey, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth transition. If you’re unsure about how to translate or legalise your documents, consider working with reliable Turkish translation services to avoid delays.

Make your move stress-free, start preparing today and open the door to new opportunities in Turkey.