Residence Permit in Turkey Through Company Formation (2026)

Overview: How Foreign Investors Can Obtain Turkish Residence by Establishing a Company

Turkey offers foreign investors a legitimate pathway to residence through company formation and capital investment. Unlike temporary tourist permits, investor-based residence permits provide long-term stability, legal business presence, and family eligibility.

In practical terms, authorities give favorable consideration when a foreign individual establishes a Turkish company with at least USD 100,000 paid-in capital and demonstrates active economic presence.

Legal Framework for Residence Permit Through Company Ownership in Turkey

Can a Foreigner Apply for Residence in Turkey by Forming a Company?

Yes. Turkish law allows foreign nationals to apply for a residence permit on the basis of:

• Shareholding in a Turkish company

• Appointment as company director

• Capital investment

• Self-employment under a registered business

• Business operation within Turkey

Although no formal minimum capital threshold exists under statute, immigration authorities evaluate the scale and credibility of the business.

Minimum Investment Expectation: USD 100,000 Paid-In Capital

Is USD 100,000 Legally Mandatory?

There is no article in Turkish law stating that “USD 100,000 is required.”
However, based on consistent application practice, applications supported with capital at this level are:

• More credible

• Less exposed to rejection

• Treated as genuine investment

• Viewed as economic contribution

Is the Capital Frozen or Locked?

No.

The capital remains company property and may be:

• Used in commercial activity

• Spent on office rent, employees, legal services

• Transferred or allocated

• Converted into assets

The state does not confiscate or hold the funds.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Residence Permit via Company Formation

Step 1: Incorporate a Turkish Company

Most foreign investors establish a Limited Liability Company (LTD):

• Minimum legal capital: TRY 50,000

• 100% foreign ownership permitted

• Director may also be shareholder

• Virtual office acceptable

Step 2: Transfer Capital and Register Investment

• Capital is deposited into the corporate bank account

• Capital declaration document is prepared

• Banking confirmation retained

Step 3: Tax Registration and Activation

• Tax ID number

• Accounting registration

• E-invoice / e-ledger access

• Payroll framework (if applicable)

Step 4: Apply for Residence Permit

Investor applies under “short-term residence (investment purpose)” or “self-employment residence.”

Required documents include:

• Trade registry certificate

• Capital proof

• Office or lease agreement

• Business explanation letter

• Passport and biometrics

Eligible Residence Permit Types

Short-Term (Investment-Based) Residence Permit

Standard option.

Characteristics:

• Issued for 6–12 months initially

• Renewable

• Valid as long as business is active

• Requires annual compliance

Self-Employment Residence Permit

Stronger residence type:

• Higher economic burden of proof

• Long-term approval probability

• Preferred for sole operators

Processing Timeline

Can Family Members Receive Residence Through This Method?

Yes.

Once the investor obtains residence:

• Spouse and children can apply

• Family residence is issued

• Children may attend schools

• No additional investment required

Upshot

A Turkish residence permit through company formation becomes legally sustainable when the company demonstrates:

• Capital strength

• Business reality

• Operational continuity

A paid-in capital amount of USD 100,000 transforms the application from a “formal request” to a “credible investor profile.”

Professional Immigration & Corporate Advisory Support

We provide:

• Company formation

• Banking onboarding

• Capital structuring

• Residence consulting

• Tax compliance

• Family applications

We do not sell permits.
We structure lawful residence strategies.

Request your private consultation to explore your eligibility.

info@ozmconsultancy.com