Extending your work permit

When is the extension filed?

An extension is filed through the e-İzin system from sixty days before the permit expires, and in every case before the expiry date itself.

Both conditions apply together. The system rejects applications made earlier than sixty days out; once the date has passed, no extension is possible and a fresh application is needed. That window is where files are most often lost.

Check your expiry date on the back of the document or in the e-İzin system, and set a reminder sixty days out. Gathering the documents takes time too.

Can I keep working after expiry?

Yes, conditionally. A foreigner whose extension has been filed may continue working after the permit expires while the application is assessed.

• The period cannot exceed ninety days
• The job must not change
• The workplace must not change

As long as those conditions hold, the time counts as legal employment and the rights and obligations of both foreigner and employer continue unchanged. Social security contributions must be paid without interruption.

This right does not arise if no extension was filed. The moment the permit expires the work becomes unauthorised, and administrative fines fall on both the foreigner and the employer.

How long is granted on extension?

The term depends on whether you stay with the same employer.

• First extension — up to two years with the same employer
• Later extensions — up to three years with the same employer
• A change of employer — not an extension but a new application, starting again at up to one year

The term also depends on your passport. A work permit is issued sixty days shorter than the passport's validity, so a passport near expiry shortens the extension too.

If you want a long extension, renew your passport before applying. It is the single most practical step for adding years to a permit.

When an extension succeeds the same document is issued with new dates — specimen image published by the Ministry.

Which documents are needed?

An extension file is lighter than a first application; what matters is identity and proof that the employment relationship continues.

• Copy of a valid passport — with a notarised sworn translation if not in Latin script
• The current work permit document
• The continuing employment contract
• Up-to-date social security service record showing contributions have been paid regularly
• Biometric photograph
• The employer's e-signature and current workplace details

If the profession or role has changed, a diploma, equivalence certificate or chamber opinion for the new role may also be requested.

Gaps in contribution payments are the most frequently queried item. Where months are missing, a short letter explaining why strengthens the file.

Why extensions get refused

• The deadline was missed — filed after the permit expired
• Gaps in social security contributions, insurance appears interrupted
• The declared salary does not match the one reported to social security
• The number of insured Turkish citizens at the workplace has fallen below the criterion
• The workplace address or line of business changed without notification
• The passport has expired or is about to
• The foreigner is actually working in another job or another province

Most of these can be fixed before applying. A check before the extension file is opened cuts the refusal risk substantially.

If the extension is refused

The refusal is served on the employer or the foreigner. An appeal can be filed through the system within thirty days of notification; if the appeal fails, administrative court remains open.

On refusal the right to continue working ends. Work must stop immediately and the Ministry must be notified; otherwise the rules on unauthorised work apply.