Introduction
Today, trade and production activities play a vital role in the economic development of countries. Tax exemptions and incentives offered in these areas directly influence investor preferences. Accordingly, as in many countries, Free Zones have been established in Türkiye to increase export-oriented production and encourage foreign investment.
Employment of Foreign Workers in Free Zones
However, for foreign personnel to be employed in Free Zones, a special permit procedure has been established, distinct from the standard work permit processes. The framework of this procedure is defined by the provisions of Regulation No. 30078 on Work Permits for Foreigners to be Employed in Free Zones. Within the scope of this Regulation, the permit procedures concerning the employment of foreigners in Free Zones can be examined step by step as follows:
- Who Is Required to Obtain a Work Permit?
Every foreign employee to be employed in a Free Zone is required to obtain a work permit without exception. The concept of “foreigner” is broadly defined in the Regulation as “a person who does not have a citizenship bond with the Republic of Türkiye.” Therefore, even foreigners holding a permanent residence permit in Türkiye are subject to this process. Accordingly, all foreigners actively participating in the activities of the Zone, from managers to technical specialists, fall within this scope.
- How Does the Application Process Work?
Under the Regulation, work permit applications for foreign employees in Free Zones can be made both domestically and from abroad. However, the procedures, required documents, and processes differ depending on the application route.
- Domestic Applications:
If the foreign national is already legally present in Türkiye, the application is made directly to the relevant Free Zone Directorate by the company operating in the Zone, and the permit is issued exclusively for that company. The Directorate first verifies the legal presence of the foreigner in Türkiye. Then, all required information and documents are uploaded into the electronic system. These include the foreigner’s identification number as well as the registered e-mail addresses (KEP) of both the company and the foreigner. Once completed, the file is forwarded to the Ministry of Trade for evaluation. The most critical aspect of domestic applications is ensuring that all documents are submitted electronically, fully, and on time.
- Applications from Abroad:
If the foreign employee is not currently in Türkiye, the process begins through external representations such as consulates or embassies. The representation forwards the application documents electronically to the Ministry of Trade. The applying company must also submit a petition showing proof of the consular application, together with copies of the same documents, to the relevant Free Zone Directorate. This petition must include the reference number provided by the consular office. The Directorate then uploads the documents into the system and transmits the file to the Ministry.
In both methods, applications must be submitted by the employing company and are valid only within the scope of that company’s Free Zone activities. Any change of employer or relocation to another Zone requires a new application. If the employee fails to commence work within the designated period, uses the permit outside its intended purpose, or if any forgery in documents is detected, the permit is revoked. Companies must carefully manage this process to avoid administrative sanctions.
- What Documents Are Required for the Application?
Another crucial aspect of the process is the documentation. Complete and accurate submission of documents is vital for the acceptance and smooth evaluation of the application.
The application file must include a passport or equivalent travel document valid for at least 60 days. In addition, the application form, the foreign employee’s CV, proof of education, professional qualifications, and any previously obtained work permits must be attached. On the company side, the certificate of activity, trade registry gazette, and—if submitted by a representative—a power of attorney must also be provided. Notarized Turkish translations of documents issued in foreign languages are also required.
Ensuring that documents are prepared in full compliance with both substantive and formal requirements prevents delays or rejections.
- Duration of Work Permits
Work permits for foreigners in Free Zones are initially granted for a maximum of one year. Applications for extension may be submitted up to 60 days before the expiration date and must be completed before the permit expires. Applications submitted after the expiration date are not processed.
If an extension is approved, the foreign employee may continue working in the same company for up to two years in the first extension and up to three years in subsequent extensions. The validity of the company’s operating license is taken as the basis in determining these durations. Furthermore, if the foreigner’s passport or travel document is valid for less than one year, the work permit is issued for a period 60 days shorter than the validity of the document.
Conclusion
The employment of foreign workers in Free Zones holds strategic importance for accessing qualified labor and supporting international investments. Unlike standard work permit procedures, this process is subject to a specific legal framework, requiring companies to comply meticulously with application rules, documentation requirements, and duration limits.
For both domestic and international applications, timely and complete submission of documents as well as close monitoring of permit durations are critical to avoiding rejection, cancellation, or administrative sanctions. Therefore, companies planning to employ foreign personnel in Free Zones must ensure full compliance with the applicable regulations and manage the process with a professional approach.
Helin Kızılkaya