Independent Work Permit for Self-Employed Professionals in Türkiye in 2026

Research note: Official government and programme material checked 2026-09-23. Individual eligibility, the issued immigration document and currently applicable law govern; this is not personalized legal advice.

Türkiye's independent work permit can authorize an approved foreign professional to work on their own name and account, without being attached to an employer. According to the Labour Ministry's permit overview, it is issued for a defined period and evaluated individually; it is not a blanket freelancer visa and cannot be obtained merely by holding tourist or short-term residence status.

What the Ministry evaluates

Official criteria consider education, experience, scientific and technological contributions, the activity's economic and employment impact, investment and the applicant's capital share where relevant. Professional licensing rules may apply. There is no officially stated single monthly freelancer-income number that guarantees approval. Evidence should show legitimate qualifications, actual work, proposed operations and economic benefit.

Work-permit and residence sequencing

If the applicant establishes a Turkish workplace, follow the relevant registry and tax requirements but do not commence paid operations before receiving the proper work permit. A company partner who personally operates a company may instead fall under the owner/partner temporary permit. Remote employees of non-Turkish businesses should separately check the restricted digital-nomad route.

Work-permit approval, tax registration, the right to stay and professional licensing are distinct obligations. Check the Ministry's current individual application checklist before submitting.

Official sources and related routes

All Türkiye routes · Methodology · Legal disclaimer

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Türkiye