Are you an IT expert who wants to work in the busy tech cities like Istanbul or Ankara? Turkey is now a popular place for tech workers from around the world. But the first big step is to understand the Turkey Work Permit Costs 2026. The government changes these fees often because of inflation and economy changes. So, it is important to know the latest costs to plan your move well.
This simple guide explains all the main costs, rules, and extra expenses for IT professionals in 2026. It uses easy words so you can understand it quickly.
The Financial Core: Turkey Work Permit Fees 2026
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security (CSGB) sets the official fees every year. For 2026, the fees for work permits are updated. IT professionals usually get temporary work permits at first. These permits link to your job and employer.
Here are the main official fees for 2026 (based on government sources):
- Turkey Work Permit Certificate Fee (1 Year): ₺12,574.90 (about $370 USD)
- Turkey Residency Card Fee 2026: ₺964.00 (about $28 USD)
- Valuable Paper Fee Turkey 2026: Around ₺790 to ₺964 (about $23 USD) – this is often the card fee.
- Permanent Work Permit for Tech Experts: ₺125,802.20 (about $3,700 USD) – this is for long-term or indefinite permits.
These are the core government fees. The work permit certificate is the biggest part. It changes with the length of the permit. For example, for more than 1 year up to 2 years, the certificate fee is ₺25,149.80.
Pro Tip: Many people ask, “Does my employer pay for my Turkey work permit 2026?” In most cases, yes. Turkish tech companies often pay these costs because they want good IT talent. It is part of the job offer in the competitive IT field.
There may also be a single entry visa fee when you apply from outside Turkey. This can be around ₺9,000 or more, but it depends on your nationality. The employer or you pay this at the Turkish consulate.
Comparing Your Options: Turquoise Card vs. Standard Permit
Not every work permit is the same. Your experience and skills decide which one you can get. This helps you choose the best path.
The Turquoise Card (Turkuaz Kart)
This is a special card like the EU Blue Card. It is for highly skilled people, such as senior software engineers, data scientists, or tech leaders.
Benefits:
- It gives a faster way to permanent residency.
- It skips some strict rules, like the “5 Turkish employees per 1 foreign worker” rule.
- After some time, you can get full permanent status.
Cost: The start fees may be higher than a normal permit. But it saves money later because you do not need to renew often. For tech experts, this is a good choice if you have strong skills, high salary, or special experience.
The Turkey Blue Card for IT Professionals
This is another option for people with high education and special IT skills.
You often need:
- Diploma equivalence (called Denklik) for your IT degree from Turkey.
- Proof of your skills and job level.
This is best for senior developers, system architects, or experts in AI, cybersecurity, etc. The standard permit is simpler but has more rules. The Turquoise Card or special options give more freedom and long-term benefits.
Also Read: Japan Finance Professional Work Visa 2026 Cost Analysis
Eligibility & The “5:1” Rule for Tech Startups
To get a work permit, you must meet some basic rules. The salary for IT jobs is usually higher than the normal minimum wage in Turkey. For tech roles, it is often 3x or 4x the minimum wage.
The Employee Ratio
Normal companies must have 5 Turkish workers for every 1 foreign worker. This is the “5:1” rule. It protects local jobs.
Tech Startup Exception
If you join a new tech startup, there are exceptions. In 2026, startups with at least 500,000 TL capital (paid-in money) can get permission to hire foreign skilled workers without the full 5:1 rule at first. This helps new innovative companies bring in IT experts quickly.
Digital Nomads
Turkey has a short-term option for digital nomads. If you work remotely for a company outside Turkey, you can get this visa. Requirements include:
- Monthly income of at least $3,000 (or $36,000 per year).
- Age between 21 and 55.
- University degree.
- Health insurance.
This is not a full work permit, but it lets you live in Turkey for up to 1 year while working online. It is simpler and good for testing life in Turkey before a full job move.
Total Budget: Moving to Istanbul as a Software Engineer
The government fees are only part of the cost. You need to plan for other expenses when moving to Istanbul or Ankara.
Here is a list of extra costs:
- Mandatory Social Security (SGK): Your employer pays this every month. It covers health and pension. The amount depends on your salary, but it can be around ₺12,000 or more per month total (employer and employee share).
- Health Insurance: You need private health insurance if the company does not cover it fully. For expats, it costs ₺8,000 to ₺20,000 per year.
- Administrative Paperwork: You pay for sworn translations of your documents, like diplomas and certificates. Also, Registered Electronic Mail (KEP) and other papers cost about ₺5,000 in total.
- Housing: In tech areas like Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, or Levent in Istanbul, rent is high. You often pay 2 months’ rent as deposit plus 1 month in advance. Monthly rent can be ₺20,000 to ₺50,000 or more for a good apartment.
Other small costs include travel to Turkey, shipping things, and setting up your new home. Plan for at least $5,000 to $10,000 extra in the first months.
FAQ: Turkey IT Work Visas in 2026
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How much does a 2-year Turkey work permit cost in 2026?
The certificate fee is annual, so for 2 years it is about ₺25,150. Add the residency card fee and other paperwork. Total is around double the 1-year cost plus extras.
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What is the cheapest way to get a work permit for IT in Turkey?
Join a company in a Technopark (Technology Development Zone). These areas get government help, so fees and rules are easier for foreign IT hires.
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What are common Turkey work permit rejection reasons for tech roles?
Low salary (below the required level), no diploma equivalence (Denklik), or the company does not meet the 5:1 rule. Always check documents carefully.
Final Thoughts: Is the Move Worth It?
Yes, moving to Turkey for IT work is still a good idea in 2026. The work permit costs are higher now, but living costs are low compared to Europe or the US. Food, rent, and daily life are cheaper. The tech industry in Turkey is growing fast, with many startups and big companies.
If you get a Turquoise Card or work in a Technopark, you can save money and have fewer problems. Salaries for good IT roles are attractive, and you can enjoy Turkish culture, food, and history.
Always check the latest from the official site: Ministry of Labor and Social Security (CSGB) or UIGM. Talk to an immigration expert if needed. This guide is for information only.