Getting a work permit in Turkey with a student visa is one of the dreams of many international students. This is a great opportunity to alleviate the cost of your studies, meet new people and increase your experience of life in Turkey. So, can you really work on a student visa?
Is There a Right to Work with a Student Visa?
In short: Yes, but with conditions. Students coming to Turkey on a student visa can legally apply for a work permit at the end of the first year. This application cannot be made individually, but through your company or employer to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. Also, your maximum weekly working hours are 24 hours. For the detailed process, be sure to read our article Student Residence Permit Renewal Process in Turkey!
How Much is the Earning Potential of Students in Turkey?
Working while studying in Turkey may seem attractive, but it is important to keep your salary expectations realistic. In big cities like Istanbul, the average earnings of students vary according to different sectors.
Average Salary of Working Students in Istanbul (USD)
The average monthly salary of a working student in Istanbul is about 186 USD. This figure varies depending on the sector and work experience. Some students work as waiters in cafes or restaurants, while others earn higher salaries through tutoring or internship programs. Here is the estimated salary table:
| Job Field | Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
| Cafe and Restaurant Jobs | 160 – 180 USD |
| Private Tuition and Language Courses | 200 – 250 USD |
| Tourism and Hospitality | 170 – 190 USD |
| Office and Internship Programs | 180 – 220 USD |
Remember, these salaries are based on minimum wage positions and are not for full-time jobs. Since your working hours are limited to 24 hours per week, you should not expect a full-time salary.
Popular Sectors in Student Work Permits
In Istanbul and other big cities, students are most likely to find jobs in cafes, restaurants and tourism. Tutoring opportunities for language-speaking students are also popular. Education counseling centers can also provide international students with job opportunities.
Work Permit Application Process in Turkey: Step by Step
Getting a work permit is one of the most important steps for those who want to earn additional income while studying as a student in Turkey. Although it may seem a bit complicated at first, with the right information and planning, you can easily complete the process. Here’s how to apply for a work permit step by step:
Types and Conditions of Work Permit
There are three main types of work permits in Turkey:
- Short Term: The most common type of leave for students. Allows a maximum of 24 hours of work per week.
- Continuous Work: Generally applicable for post-graduation; not suitable for students.
- Independent Work: For freelancers or those who want to start their own business; it is difficult to apply in student status.
To apply for a short-term work permit for students:
- Officially enrolled in a university in Turkey,
- You must have completed the first year of your studies.
If you meet these conditions, you can apply.
The Application Process to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security
Applying for a student work permit in Turkey cannot be done directly in person. Instead, your employer or the organization where you are doing your internship must apply on your behalf. Here is the step-by-step application process:
- Find a Job and Negotiate
The first step is to negotiate with an employer in Turkey where you want to work. This can be a café, language school, restaurant or any part-time job. The employer is authorized to apply for your work permit. - Prepare Required Documents
- Online Application (by Employer)
Your employer in Turkey or the institution where you are doing your internship needs to apply online through the e-Work Permit Automation System. In this system, both your and your employer’s information is entered and the application is completed. - Follow-up and Finalization of the Application
After the application is completed, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security reviews the application. The process usually takes 4-6 weeks. If the application is approved, your work permit will be approved and you will be issued a work permit certificate. - Get Your Work Permit and Start Working
Once your permit is approved, your employer can check it in the system and you can officially start working. You can now legally work up to 24 hours a week!
Note: Your work permit is valid concurrently with your student residence permit. In other words, if your residence permit expires, your work permit automatically expires.
For more information, you can also visit Orta East Technical University’s work permits page.
What to Wonder About Student Work Permit in Turkey
One of the most confusing issues for students who want to work while studying in Turkey is the relationship between work permits and residence permits. Also, working hours and restrictions are another issue that students are curious about.
Relationship between Student Residence Permit and Work Permit
When you come to Turkey as a student, you get a student residence permit. However, this permit does not automatically grant you a work permit. So even if you have a student residence permit, you have to apply for a separate work permit.
Legal Working Hours and Restrictions in Turkey
Students studying at undergraduate or associate degree level in Turkey are not allowed to work for the first year. After completing the first year, you can work a maximum of 24 hours per week. For postgraduate (master’s and doctoral) students, this rule is more flexible; it is usually possible to work from the beginning of the program. But in any case, you must observe the legal working hours, otherwise your work permit may be canceled.
Best Job Opportunities for Students in Turkey
Job opportunities for students who want to work while studying in Turkey are generally concentrated in the part-time and service sectors. Let’s take a look at which sectors are popular and which jobs you can easily work in.
Language Schools and Private Lessons
Particularly if you are good at English or your native language, you have a good chance of working as an assistant or tutor in language courses. This field usually provides students with flexible weekly working hours and hourly wages can be slightly better than in other sectors (around 6-7 USD/hour).
Cafe, Restaurant and Tourism Sector
In tourist cities such as Istanbul and Antalya, it is quite common to work as a waiter or receptionist in cafes, restaurants and hotels. It is much easier to find a job during the tourism season, especially in summer. Hourly rates usually range around 4-5 USD.
Step into the Dream of Studying and Working in Turkey!
Earning with a work permit while studying as a student in Turkey can provide you with unique experiences. Of course, it is very important to know the legal processes and take the right steps. By following the step-by-step process we explain in this article, you can live both your education and work experience in Turkey to the fullest.
If you still have any questions or need support during the application process, we at RoadtoStudy
are here for you! Start the application process now and make your dream of studying and working in Turkey a reality!