Which Professions Are Prohibited for Foreigners in Turkey?
Which Professions Are Prohibited for Foreign Citizens in Turkey?
If you are planning to move to Turkey or already live here with a residence permit or foreign citizenship, it’s important to know that not all professions are open to foreigners. Certain types of work are legally prohibited for foreign nationals, even if they hold a residence permit, permanent residence, or a work visa.
⚖️ Legal Basis for Restrictions
These limitations are regulated by Turkish laws and secondary legislation, primarily the Law on Work Permits of Foreigners (No. 4817), as well as various sector-specific regulations.
The purpose of these restrictions is to protect state interests, national security, the healthcare system, and the judicial system.
🚫 Professions Prohibited for Foreigners in Turkey
Below is a list of key professions in which foreign citizens are not allowed to work in Turkey:
🏛 Government and Legal Professions
- Civil servant (all levels)
- Judge
- Lawyer
- Prosecutor
- Notary
These professions require Turkish citizenship and are directly related to state authority, the justice system, and national interests.
🩺 Medical and Veterinary Professions
- Dentist
- Veterinarian
- Pharmacist
Important: Even if a foreign diploma is recognized in Turkey, it does not grant the right to work in these professions. Employment in private clinics is also prohibited without Turkish citizenship.
🌐 Other Restricted Professions
- Licensed tourist guide (including certified tour guides, regardless of language skills or historical knowledge)
- Customs broker
- Private security officer
These roles are connected to national security, border control, tourism regulation, and protection of facilities, and are reserved exclusively for Turkish citizens.
ℹ️ Where Can Foreigners Work in Turkey?
Despite these restrictions, there are many sectors where foreigners can legally work in Turkey, including:
- Education (language schools, universities)
- Tourism and hospitality
- IT and remote work
- Construction and architecture
- Marketing, design, and communications
- Investment and real estate
- Private business and entrepreneurship
In most cases, the following are required: A work visa or work permit (çalışma izni), an employment contract, and a relevant diploma or professional qualification.
Understanding these regulations is crucial for legal employment. Always verify the current legal requirements before seeking employment, as laws can be updated. Compliance ensures a smooth professional experience in Turkey.
