Online Company Registration in Turkey 2025: A Complete Guide
Turkey has streamlined its business registration process in recent years, making it easier for both domestic and foreign entrepreneurs to establish companies online. As of 2025, you can register your company in Turkey remotely, without having to be physically present, thanks to the MERSIS (Central Trade Registry System) platform, which enables online company registration. In this guide, we'll walk you through the online company registration process in Turkey, the documents required, and the steps to follow.
Why Register a Company Online in Turkey?
Convenience: You can complete the entire process remotely, saving time and travel costs.
Efficiency: The MERSIS platform simplifies company name registration, document submission, and communication with government authorities.
Cost Savings: By reducing paperwork and office visits, the online registration process reduces administrative costs.
Transparency: The system provides real-time updates on your application status, ensuring transparency throughout the process.
Steps to Register a Company Online in Turkey in 2025
1. Access the MERSIS System
The MERSIS (Merkezi Sicil Kayıt Sistemi) platform is the official digital trade registry system in Turkey. It allows for the online submission of documents and management of company registration processes.
Go to the MERSIS portal at mersis.gov.tr and create a user account.
For foreign users, it is advisable to use a local representative or consultant to handle the process as the system operates in Turkish.
2. Choose Your Company Type
Turkey offers several types of legal entities. You must select the one that best fits your business needs:
Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most common type, requiring a minimum capital of TRY 50,000 and one shareholder.
Joint-Stock Company (JSC): Suitable for larger businesses with a minimum capital of TRY 250,000.
Branch Office: A subsidiary of a foreign company.
Liaison Office: For non-commercial activities, such as market research.
3. Reserve and Register Your Company Name
Through the MERSIS system, you can check the availability of your desired company name and reserve it for use. It is crucial to ensure that the name complies with Turkish commercial laws and does not conflict with existing registered names.
- Tip: Choose a unique and legally compliant name. Avoid words that imply government affiliation or use of restricted terms.
4. Prepare and Submit Your Articles of Association
The Articles of Association must be prepared in accordance with Turkish law. This document outlines the company's structure, operations, and management.
5. Complete the Digital Signature
Turkey’s online system requires a digital signature for secure document submission. If you are a foreign investor or do not have a Turkish digital signature, you can appoint a local legal representative to complete the process on your behalf.
- Apply for a digital signature at e-Government (e-Devlet) or through authorized service providers in Turkey.
6. Deposit the Minimum Capital
After preparing the Articles of Association, you will need to open a Turkish bank account and deposit the minimum required share capital:
TRY 50,000 for a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
TRY 250,000 for a Joint-Stock Company (JSC).
The bank will issue a certificate confirming the capital deposit, which must be submitted to MERSIS.
7. Submit Required Documents to MERSIS
Along with the Articles of Association and capital deposit confirmation, you must upload other necessary documents to MERSIS:
Passport copies of the shareholders.
Proof of address for shareholders.
Tax identification numbers for all shareholders (foreign investors must apply for a Turkish tax ID).
Board of Directors' details (for JSCs).
8. Obtain Tax Identification Number
Once your company is registered, you will automatically be assigned a Tax Identification Number by the Turkish Revenue Administration. This number is required for tax filings, invoicing, and other business transactions.
9. Register with the Social Security Institution (SGK)
After your company has been established, you must register with the Social Security Institution (SGK) to cover employee payroll taxes and social contributions. This can also be done online.
10. Set Up Electronic Books (e-Defter) and E-Invoicing (e-Fatura)
Companies in Turkey are required to maintain electronic records for accounting and invoicing:
Key Benefits of Online Company Registration in Turkey
Time-Saving: The MERSIS system drastically reduces the time needed to register a company by digitizing most steps.
Flexibility: You can complete all the required steps from anywhere in the world without traveling to Turkey.
Transparency: You can track your application status in real-time, ensuring that no steps are missed or delayed.
Cost-Efficiency: By cutting down on paperwork and in-person visits to government offices, the online process can significantly lower costs.
Required Documents for Online Company Registration
Here is a list of documents you will need to upload during the online company registration process in Turkey:
| Document | Details |
| Articles of Association | Notarized and compliant with Turkish commercial law. |
| Shareholder Information | Copies of passports and proof of addresses. |
| Tax Identification Number | For each shareholder (can be obtained online). |
| Bank Certificate | Proof of capital deposit in a Turkish bank. |
| Digital Signatures | Required for secure document submission. |
| Trade Registry Registration Form | Available on the MERSIS system. |
Taxation and Incentives for Companies in Turkey (2025)
Turkey offers numerous tax incentives and a favorable business climate for both local and foreign entrepreneurs. Here’s a quick overview of the applicable taxes:
Corporate Tax: 25%
VAT (Value Added Tax): 20% standard rate, with reduced rates of 1% and 8% for certain goods and services.
Withholding Tax: 15% on dividends paid to foreign shareholders (subject to international tax treaties).
Businesses located in Free Trade Zones or Technoparks can benefit from substantial tax reductions and exemptions, such as corporate tax exemptions and VAT-free imports.
Final Thoughts: Why Register Your Company Online in Turkey?
Turkey offers a unique mix of opportunities for foreign investors and entrepreneurs, with a growing economy and favorable government policies. Registering a company online in 2025 allows you to take advantage of a streamlined, time-saving process, enabling you to quickly tap into the Turkish market.
By leveraging the MERSIS platform, entrepreneurs can save time and avoid the complexities of in-person visits to government offices. Whether you're a small startup or an established business expanding internationally, Turkey’s online registration system simplifies the process and opens the door to countless opportunities.
Ready to establish your company in Turkey? Contact us today for personalized guidance, and let us help you every step of the way!
info@ozmconsultancy.com
Özmen CPA
