Starting a Business in Turkey in 2025
6 Key Updates You Need to Know for Starting a Business in Turkey in 2025
6 Key Updates You Need to Know for Starting a Business in Turkey in 2025
For entrepreneurs planning to start a company in Turkey in 2025, there are several new regulations and legal obligations that differentiate this year from previous ones. From the mandatory e-ledger implementation to occupational health and safety responsibilities, many crucial changes need to be understood. This article covers the essential updates for starting a business in Turkey in 2025.
We hope this will be helpful!
1– Mandatory E-Ledger for New Companies in Turkey in 2025
In previous years, there was no requirement for e-ledgers in Turkey. However, starting from 2025, all businesses—except those that are not keeping books under the balance sheet method—must comply with the e-ledger system.
Businesses required to keep their books under the balance sheet method, or those who voluntarily opt to do so, must join the e-ledger application starting January 1, 2025.
Important Tips for E-Ledger Compliance in Turkey:
Timely Uploading: E-ledger records must be uploaded on time. Delays can cause significant stress, especially if the system fails. New companies are on a monthly upload cycle, but you can adjust it to quarterly by emailing edefter@gelirler.gov.tr.
Accurate Record Keeping: Bank records, collections, expenses, and revenues must be accurately recorded and uploaded. It’s advisable to use audit software to review records before finalizing uploads, as once submitted, e-ledgers cannot be edited.
Tax Calculations: Ensure there are no errors or inconsistencies in your tax calculations.
Cybersecurity: Utilize cloud-based backup services to protect against cyber-attacks or hardware failures.
2– Occupational Health and Safety Obligations in Turkey are Different for 2025
If your company has even a single employee in Turkey, whether they work remotely or in the office, you are responsible for ensuring a safe working environment. Starting January 1, 2025, businesses of all types must meet occupational health and safety obligations, regardless of the industry or company type (LLC, corporation, etc.).
How to Fulfill Occupational Health and Safety Obligations in Turkey:
Outsource Services: You can hire external service providers such as OSGB (Joint Health and Safety Units) or ÇASMER (Employee Health Centers) to meet these requirements, with costs based on the number of employees.
In-House Compliance: You or an authorized manager in your company can take a 16-hour training course to fulfill these obligations, with an exam at the end. Each employee will also require 10 minutes of attention monthly for health and safety matters.
Recommendation: Outsourcing is often the more practical and cost-effective choice for most businesses in Turkey.
3– UTTS Requirement for Company Vehicles in Turkey in 2025
In 2025, if your company owns a vehicle and wants to deduct fuel expenses, the vehicle must be equipped with a UTTS device. Simply registering the vehicle as a company asset is no longer enough to deduct fuel costs from your taxes in Turkey.
4– Significant Increases in Tax Penalties and Revenue Audits in Turkey in 2025
In 2025, Turkey will see significant increases in tax penalties, as well as the reintroduction of revenue audits. For example, the penalty for procedural errors in tax filings has been increased by 16,200 TL, raising the penalty to 28,000 TL. Furthermore, if a company not registered for stamp duty enters into a contract above a specified amount, they must submit the stamp duty declaration within 15 days, or they may face penalties of up to 28,000 TL.
Additionally, businesses with discrepancies of over 20% between actual and recorded revenues will be invited to explain the inconsistencies under Turkish Tax Procedure Law Article 370.
5– New Minimum Corporate Tax in 2025 in Turkey
The new minimum corporate tax will apply for the first time in 2025 in Turkey. However, companies established in 2025 will be exempt from this tax for the first three years of operation.
6– Why Employer Costs are Higher in Turkey in 2025
In 2025, the discount for timely insurance premium payments in Turkey will decrease from 5% to 4%. This will lead to higher employer costs compared to previous years. Regular payment discounts had previously allowed businesses to save on premiums, but the reduction in this discount will increase employer costs.
Key Takeaways for 2025 in Turkey:
Starting a business in Turkey in 2025 comes with new challenges and responsibilities, such as e-ledger compliance and occupational health and safety regulations.
Penalties for tax errors and discrepancies are significantly higher, and businesses must adhere strictly to deadlines and regulations.
Outsourcing occupational health and safety responsibilities may be the most efficient choice for many businesses in Turkey.
Why Should You Work With Us in Turkey?
Without professional assistance, your business risks falling behind on crucial regulations like e-ledger compliance, tax calculations, and occupational safety responsibilities in Turkey. Don’t let your business get overwhelmed by these legal obligations—contact us today to ensure a seamless start!
Get in Touch Now! Let us help you tackle these challenges effectively. Reach out to info@ozmconsultancy.com for a consultation today!
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