im thinking of teaching in istanbul next year. can anyone advise me on what paperwrok i need for a work permit? and is it possible to get work without it? i have read on the internet from various sources that it is....?

how difficult is it?

ps. i am from england and have degree and a tefl.

It's usual to get a job (or at least the offer of one) before applying for the work permit. A reputable employer will then process the paperwork for you and in most cases cover the costs.

I worked in Izmir for 15 years and that was the case for me and other teachers I know.

You can compare others' experiences and join the discussions on these two websites:

http://eltworld.net/forums/viewforum.php?f=20
http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewforum.php?f=22

It has sometimes been suggested that you need to apply from your home country but I've never found that to be the case. They will need original certificates for both your degree and TEFL cert., the process can take a while and is fairly tedious but works.

Good Luck!

If you are teaching at a state school you def. have to have your work permit. It is advisable to get your work permit to work here anywhere but I know tons and tons of foreigners who work here without it at private schools, language schools, private lessons, and other places. I worked for 4 years without a permit but now I don't need it as I am married and am applying for citizenship. To get your work permit you should have a contract from a school first then apply at the nearest Turkish Embassy in your area. It is very expensive and most good schools will pay and arrange everything for you.