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Work Permit for Owners of International Protection (refugee)

Hamit Ekşi
Hamit Ekşi
June 25, 2022
3 min read

Learn how to obtain a work permit for international protection holders in Turkey. Our expert team guides you through the legal requirements and application process.

Understanding Work Permit for International Protection Status

People with international protection status can legally work in Turkey. This group includes refugees and those under secondary protection. Under International Labour Law No. 6735, you can get a work permit for international protection status to join the job market. It keeps everything legal for both you and your boss.

Eligibility Requirements for a Refugee Work Permit

You need to meet a few rules to qualify. The biggest one is about timing. You must hold your international protection identity card for at least six months. This time starts from your first application date. Once those six months pass, you're ready to apply through an employer.

The Six-Month Rule

You can't skip this waiting period. You should stay in the city where you registered during these six months. After that, the Ministry checks the job market and your skills. Then they decide on your application. And remember, you can't start working legally until the permit is in your hands.

Benefits of Hiring International Protection Holders

Turkish bosses find many perks in hiring people with protection status. The rules are much easier than standard permits. Usually, a boss needs five Turkish workers for every one foreigner. But for refugees, the government often waives this rule. It depends on the job sector and your specific status.

Exemption from Standard Employment Ratios

Bosses don't need huge bank balances to hire you. This helps small shops and families hire help easily. It works for factories, farms, or offices. The goal is to make legal hiring simple and fast for everyone involved.

Work Permits for Home Services

Many people find work in homes. You might work as a babysitter or care for the elderly. Some work as nurses or general cleaners. For these jobs, the boss must prove they can pay your salary. If you live at the house, you must register that address in the application.

The Application Process for Employers

Your boss starts the process on the e-Devlet system. They need your ID number starting with 99 and a photo. You both must sign a work contract. The Ministry then looks at the file. If they say yes, they mail the card to your boss. So, make sure your boss has your correct contact details.

Duration and Renewal of the Permit

Your first permit usually lasts for one year. It links you to one boss and one specific job. But you can extend it if you stay at the same job. Just make sure to apply before it runs out.

  • First Extension: You can get up to two years with the same boss.
  • Next Extensions: These can last for up to three years.

If you change bosses, you need a brand new application. Don't work without a valid permit. If you do, both you and your boss will face heavy fines.

Legal Rights and Social Security

You have the same rights as any Turkish worker. Your boss must pay you at least the minimum wage. They also have to pay your SGK insurance. This gives you healthcare and helps with your future retirement. If they don't pay, you might lose your work permit for international protection status.

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Hamit Ekşi

About Hamit Ekşi

Expert real estate consultant specializing in Turkish Citizenship by Investment programs. Helping international investors find their dream properties in Turkey.

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