How to Open a Company in Turkey as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)
How to Open a Company in Turkey as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)
How to Open a Company in Turkey as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)
Meta Title:
Meta Description:
Slug: /
Why Foreigners Choose Turkey for Business?
Turkey’s unique location, dynamic market, and foreign investor–friendly regulations make it a prime spot for entrepreneurs. Whether you are a digital nomad, a SaaS founder, or a traditional manufacturer, the Turkish Commercial Code allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors.
👉 Pro Tip: Compared to many EU countries, the incorporation process in Turkey is faster (5–7 business days) and less expensive.
How to Start a Business in Turkey as a Foreigner?
Foreign investors have the same rights as Turkish nationals. The process generally includes:
Choose the Legal Form – Most foreigners establish a Limited Liability Company (Ltd. Şti.) with TRY 50,000 minimum capital.
Prepare the Articles of Association (AoA) – Outlining shareholders, capital, and management.
Register with MERSIS – Turkey’s digital trade registry platform.
Notarize Documents & Signatures – Passport translations are mandatory.
Register at the Trade Registry Office – Company becomes legally operational.
Obtain Tax Number & VAT Registration – Essential for invoices and banking.
Open a Bank Account – Corporate account required for transactions.
📌 CTA: Contact Özmen Consultancy for a personalized roadmap. We handle the paperwork while you focus on growth.
How to Start a Small Business in Turkey as a Foreigner?
Starting small doesn’t mean skipping formalities. For micro-entrepreneurs (e-commerce, freelancers, software exporters):
LLC vs Sole Proprietorship: LLC is safer, protecting personal assets. Sole proprietorships require residency permits.
Incentives for Small Exporters: Up to 80% tax exemption for software exports and digital services.
Low Compliance Costs: A one-shareholder LLC is cost-effective and scalable.
👉 Pro Tip: Begin lean, with minimum capital, then scale up as your revenues grow.
📌 CTA: Book a 15-minute consultation with our CPA team to see which structure fits your case.
How to Open a Bank Account in Turkey for Foreigners?
Foreign-owned companies must have a corporate account. Requirements include:
Trade Registry Gazette
Tax certificate
Shareholder passports & notarized signatures
Proof of registered office address
Challenges:
Many banks require in-person presence.
AML/MASAK compliance checks can delay approvals.
👉 Pro Tip: Working with a local CPA/law firm helps navigate compliance quickly.
📌 CTA: We liaise directly with major Turkish banks to accelerate your account opening.
How to Open a Company in Turkey?
Even if you’re not a foreigner, the general process includes:
Reserve company name and draft AoA.
Register with Trade Registry.
Publish in the Official Gazette.
Register with the Tax Office & Social Security (if hiring).
Open a corporate bank account.
Average timeline: 5–7 business days.
📌 CTA: Request our free Turkey Company Formation Checklist (PDF).
Opening a Company in Turkey for Foreigners: Incentives & Restrictions
Turkey actively supports Foreign Direct Investment (FDI):
Tax Incentives: Investment Incentive Certificates (VAT exemption, customs duty exemption).
Techno-parks: Zero corporate tax on software & R&D activities.
Double Tax Treaties: Signed with 80+ countries.
⚠️ Restricted sectors: Aviation, energy, media, and defense may require special approvals.
📌 CTA: Get a compliance risk assessment with our experts before committing capital.
How to Start a Business in Turkey (Local & Foreign Perspective)
The process is nearly identical for locals and foreigners. The difference is translation & notarization for foreign documents.
Interestingly, foreign-owned companies often enjoy greater credibility with international partners and banks.
📌 CTA: Download our free guide Doing Business in Turkey 2025 for updated tax thresholds, incentives, and compliance rules.
FAQ – Opening a Company in Turkey
Q1. Can I open a company without living in Turkey?
Yes. You can authorize a lawyer or CPA with Power of Attorney.
Q2. How long does it take?
Typically 5–7 working days.
Q3. What is the minimum share capital?
TRY 50,000 for an LLC. Only 25% is required upfront.
Q4. Do I need a Turkish partner?
No. 100% foreign ownership is allowed in most sectors.
Q5. What are the ongoing monthly costs?
Accounting & compliance: approx. EUR 350–600/month.
Final Thoughts
Turkey offers one of the most accessible and profitable jurisdictions for company formation. With the right structure and professional guidance, you can be operational within a week.
👉 Reach us: Contact Ozm-Consultancy today for a turnkey company formation package—including trade registry, tax registration, and corporate bank account setup.
