Company Registration in Turkey for Foreginers
Can a foreigner register a company in Turkey?
Yes. Foreign individuals and foreign companies can establish and own a company in Turkey. In most sectors, there is no requirement to have a Turkish shareholder or partner, and the company can generally be 100% foreign-owned.
Register your company in Turkey with practical legal support, clear guidance and a streamlined process. FO Consultancy assists foreign investors with company formation in Turkey, bank account opening, trade registry procedures, tax registration and post-incorporation guidance.
Why work with us?
- Remote-friendly process for foreign shareholders
- Support for LLC and joint stock company registration in Turkey
- Guidance in English throughout the process
- Assistance with tax number, registry application, and post-registration steps
Free initial consultation. Send your request through the form below and we will review your case.
Can You Start a Company in Turkey as a Foreigner?
Answer a few quick questions and see which company setup may be suitable for your situation.
What Is the Price for Company Registration in Turkey?
The price for company registration in Turkey depends on the type of company, number of shareholders, required legal services, translations, notarization, and other registration expenses.
For foreign investors, our company registration service in Turkey starts from €1,850 for a standard company with one shareholder. For a detailed breakdown of company formation costs, please see the tables below.
MOST PREFERRED
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The Price of LLC Formation in Turkey for Single Shareholder
A popular option for foreign investors who want to open a company in Turkey with a simple and efficient corporate structure.
- Single shareholder setup
- Suitable for many foreign-owned businesses
- Professional incorporation coordination
CORPORATE OPTION
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The Price for JSC Formation in Turkey for Single Shareholder
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A strong alternative for investors seeking a joint stock company in Turkey for broader corporate planning and structure.
- Single shareholder structure
- More formal company model
- Managed registration assistance
OPERATIONAL SUPPORT
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Price for Bank Account Opening in Turkey
Assistance for opening a corporate bank account in Turkey as part of your business setup and post-incorporation process.
- Corporate account opening support
- Useful for foreign investors
- Integrated with company setup workflow
Additional Services
| Service | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Each Additional Shareholder | €193 + VAT | Optional |
| Legal Entity Shareholder | €193 + VAT | Optional |
| Tax Opening | Free of Charge | Notary expenses are paid directly by the client. No mark-up is added. |
| Virtual Office | €236 + VAT | For 6 months. Not required if the client already has its own office. |
Important Information
- The listed service fees apply where the required documents are notarized or apostilled by the client.
- If notarization or translation support is additionally needed, those costs are borne directly by the client.
- FO Consultancy does not add any mark-up to notary or translation expenses.
- All prices above are exclusive of VAT.
Beyond Advisory: A Strategic Partnership Approach
At FO Consultancy, we go beyond traditional advisory services. For carefully selected, high-potential investment projects, we may offer flexible collaboration models — including advisory, operational support and, in certain cases, strategic partnership or co-investment.
This approach allows us to align our interests with our clients, optimize resource allocation and contribute directly to the long-term success of the investment.
If your project meets the right criteria, we don’t just advise — we grow with you.
Essential Topics For Your Business Journey
Explore key guides and resources to help you successfully register and grow your company in Turkey.
Company Formation Basics
All you need to know about starting a company in Turkey.
Types of Companies
Compare LLCs, joint stock companies and other structures.
Shareholders & Directors
Understand ownership, shareholders and director requirements.
Bank Account Opening
Banking solutions and requirements for foreign investors.
Office & Virtual Office
Find the right office solution for your company in Turkey.
Tax & Accounting
Understand taxes, VAT, accounting and ongoing obligations.
How To Register A Company In Turkey In 2026
The company registration process in Turkey can be completed efficiently when the shareholder structure, company type, documents and registered address are prepared correctly from the beginning. For foreign investors, the process generally follows the steps below.
Choose the Company Type
Determine whether a limited liability company, joint stock company or another structure is suitable for the investment, ownership model and long-term business plans.
Determine Shareholders & Capital
Confirm the shareholders, ownership percentages, management structure and the capital amount to be registered for the company.
Prepare the Documents
Prepare the required shareholder, identification, address and corporate documents, together with any necessary translations, apostilles or notarizations.
Prepare the Articles of Association
The company’s articles of association are prepared through the MERSİS system and structured according to the shareholders, management and intended business activities.
Trade Registry Application
The incorporation documents are submitted to the relevant Trade Registry and the company is registered after the application is reviewed and approved.
Complete Post-Registration Steps
After registration, the company completes the necessary tax, signature, banking, accounting and other operational procedures required to begin business activities.
What Is The Minimum Capital Requirements in Turkey for Company Registration?(2026)
The minimum share capital required for company registration in Turkey depends on the type of company. The current minimum capital requirements applicable in 2026 are:
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Minimum share capital for a limited liability company.
Joint Stock Company (JSC)
Minimum share capital for a joint stock company.
Registered Capital System
Minimum initial capital for non-public JSCs using the registered capital system.
These minimum capital thresholds were introduced in 2024 and continue to apply in 2026. The applicable capital and payment procedure may vary depending on the company structure.
What Documents Are Required to Register a Company in Turkey?
The required documents depend on whether the shareholder is a foreign individual or a foreign legal entity. The main documentation for each structure is summarized below.
Individual Foreign Shareholder
- Passport documentation
- Power of attorney, where the incorporation is handled through a representative
- Shareholder address information
- Potential tax identification number
Foreign Legal Entity Shareholder
- Certificate of incorporation or equivalent company registration document
- Current document showing the foreign company’s authorized representatives
- Corporate resolution regarding the establishment of the Turkish company
- Power of attorney for the incorporation process, where applicable
- Identification documents of the relevant authorized representatives
Documents issued outside Turkey may need to be apostilled or certified
through the relevant Turkish consular procedures and translated into Turkish,
depending on the country of issuance and the document.
Can I Register a Company in Turkey Without Coming to Turkey?
In many cases, foreign investors can complete the company registration process in Turkey without being physically present in the country. The incorporation process may be carried out through an authorized representative using a properly prepared power of attorney.
The shareholder documents and power of attorney must be prepared in the appropriate form for use in Turkey. Depending on the country where the documents are issued, apostille, Turkish consular certification, notarization or Turkish translation may be required.
Prepare the Documents Abroad
The shareholder prepares the passport, corporate documents where applicable, and the required power of attorney.
Send the Documents to Turkey
The documents are delivered for the incorporation process after the necessary certification and translation procedures are completed.
Registration Is Coordinated Locally
The authorized representative can coordinate the MERSİS and Trade Registry procedures required to establish the company.
Do I Need a Turkish Partner or Director to Register a Company in Turkey?
In general, no. Foreign investors can establish and own companies in Turkey without having a Turkish shareholder. A company may generally be 100% foreign-owned, subject to restrictions that may apply to certain regulated activities or sectors.
Turkish Shareholder
A Turkish shareholder is generally not required. A foreign individual or foreign legal entity may establish a company in Turkey and hold
100% of its shares.
Turkish Director or Manager
Turkish citizenship is generally not required for the management of an LLC or JSC. Foreign nationals may take management roles, subject to the applicable corporate, immigration and work permit rules.
requirements. The proposed business activity should therefore be reviewed before incorporation.
How Long Does It Take to Register a Company in Turkey?
When the required documents are properly prepared, company registration in Turkey can generally be completed within a few business days.
The overall timeline depends mainly on the shareholder structure, preparation of foreign documents and the relevant Trade Registry procedures.
01 — Document Preparation
Passport, corporate documents and powers of attorney are prepared, together with any required apostille, certification and Turkish translation.
02 — MERSİS & Trade Registry
The incorporation documents are prepared through MERSİS and the registration procedure is completed before the relevant Trade Registry.
03 — Post-Registration Procedures
After incorporation, additional procedures such as tax formalities, signature authorization and corporate bank account opening can be coordinated.
Missing or incorrectly prepared documents, apostille and translation requirements, complex shareholder structures and additional regulatory approvals may increase the time required to complete the process.
Do I Need an Office to Register a Company in Turkey?
Every company registered in Turkey must have a registered address.
However, this does not necessarily mean that a foreign investor must rent a traditional physical office before establishing the company.
Physical Office
A conventional office may be used as the company’s registered address where the business requires dedicated premises or an operational workplace.
Virtual Office
A suitable virtual office arrangement may provide a registered business address and can be a practical option for foreign investors who do not
initially require dedicated office premises.
Home Office
Depending on the circumstances, a residential address may also be used as the registered address of a company. The suitability of the address
should be assessed according to the intended business activity and applicable requirements.
requirements. A virtual or residential address may therefore not be suitable for every business activity.
Requirements After Company Registration in Turkey
Registering the company with the Trade Registry is an important milestone, but certain procedures must still be completed before and during business operations. The requirements depend on the company structure and activity, but generally include the following:
01 — Tax Registration
The company’s tax registration must be completed and the necessary tax procedures coordinated with the relevant tax authority.
02 — Signature Authorization
The individuals authorized to represent the company complete the applicable signature procedures so that they can act on behalf of the company.
03 — Accounting & Tax Compliance
Companies must maintain their accounting records and comply with ongoing tax filing, bookkeeping and other statutory financial obligations.
04 — Corporate Bank Account
A corporate bank account can be opened for the company’s payments, collections and other financial transactions. Banks apply their own documentation, KYC and compliance procedures.
05 — Licences & Sector-Specific Requirements
Depending on the company’s business activity, additional licences, permits, registrations or regulatory approvals may be required before operations begin.
Residence and Work Permits for Foreign Company Owners in Turkey
Establishing or owning a company in Turkey and obtaining the right to reside or work in Turkey are separate legal matters. Foreign shareholders should therefore consider their immigration and work authorization requirements separately from the company registration process.
Residence Permit
Registering or owning a company in Turkey does not automatically grant a foreign shareholder a residence permit. If the shareholder intends to reside in Turkey, the appropriate residence or immigration status must be considered separately according to the individual’s circumstances.
Work Permit
Owning shares in a Turkish company does not by itself provide an unrestricted right to work in Turkey. Whether a foreign shareholder, manager or director requires a work permit depends on the person’s role, activities and the applicable work permit rules.
Company Formation in Turkish Free Zones
Foreign investors may also establish or operate businesses in Turkey’s free zones. These are specially designated areas where certain customs, tax and operational advantages may be available to qualifying businesses.
Operating in a free zone is different from ordinary company registration in Turkey. Businesses generally need to obtain an Operating Licence and satisfy the requirements applicable to the proposed activity and the relevant free zone.
Who May Operate in a Free Zone?
Both Turkish and foreign investors may carry out qualifying activities in Turkish free zones, subject to obtaining the necessary operating licence and other applicable approvals.
Additional Approval Is Required
Incorporating a company does not by itself authorize the company to operate in a free zone. The operating licence and free-zone procedures must be completed separately.
Which Business Structure Should a Foreigner Choose in Turkey?
There is no single business structure that is suitable for every foreign investor in Turkey. The right choice depends on whether you are starting a new business, expanding an existing foreign company, planning to manufacture for export, or simply establishing a presence in the Turkish market.
For most foreign entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized businesses, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most commonly preferred structure. A Joint Stock Company (JSC) may be more suitable for larger investments, businesses with more complex ownership structures, or companies planning to attract investors. An existing foreign company may alternatively establish a Branch Office in Turkey rather than incorporating a separate subsidiary.
Investors whose main objective is export-oriented manufacturing or international trade should also consider whether operating in a Turkish Free Zone would be advantageous. Free zones offer a special regulatory environment and may provide significant customs and tax advantages for qualifying activities, particularly export-oriented production.
If a foreign company does not intend to conduct commercial activities in Turkey but wants a local presence for purposes such as market research, representation, coordination or following business opportunities, a Liaison Office may be a more appropriate solution.
For individuals planning a very small business or independent activity, a Sole Proprietorship may also be worth considering. However, foreign nationals should evaluate their residence and work authorization status before choosing this structure, as establishing a business and having the legal right to work in Turkey are separate matters.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
An LLC is the most commonly preferred company type for foreign entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized businesses in Turkey. It can be established with a single shareholder and offers a relatively flexible management structure.
- Minimum capital: TRY 50,000
- Can be established with one shareholder
- 100% foreign ownership is generally possible
- Suitable for many small and medium-sized businesses
Liaison Office
A liaison office can be suitable for a foreign company that wants to establish a presence in Turkey without carrying out commercial activities. It is commonly used for representation, market research, coordination and developing business relationships in Turkey.
- Established by an existing foreign company
- Cannot generally conduct commercial activities in Turkey
- Suitable for market research and representation
- Requires authorization from the relevant authority
Joint Stock Company (JSC)
A JSC may be more suitable for larger investments, businesses with more complex ownership structures, or companies planning to attract investors and transfer shares more flexibly as they grow.
- Minimum capital: TRY 250,000
- Can be established with one shareholder
- 100% foreign ownership is generally possible
- Suitable for larger or investment-oriented businesses
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship may be suitable for foreign individuals planning a small-scale or independent business activity in Turkey. It generally has a simpler structure than establishing an LLC or JSC, but the individual’s immigration and work authorization status must also be considered.
- Suitable for small-scale individual activities
- Simpler structure than an LLC or JSC
- No separate corporate legal personality
- Residence and work authorization should be assessed
Branch Office
A branch office can be suitable for an existing foreign company that wants to establish a business presence in Turkey without incorporating a separate subsidiary. The branch operates as an extension of its foreign parent company.
- Established by an existing foreign company
- Not a separate legal entity from the parent company
- Operates under the parent company’s corporate structure
- Suitable for companies seeking a direct presence in Turkey
Company in a Turkish Free Zone
Operating in a Turkish Free Zone may be particularly attractive for investors planning export-oriented manufacturing or certain international trade activities. Qualifying businesses may benefit from special customs, tax and operational advantages.
- Particularly relevant for export-oriented manufacturing
- Special customs and tax advantages may apply
- Foreign investors may operate in Turkish free zones
- A separate Free Zone Operating Licence is generally required
How Do I Start a Company in Turkey for My Industry?
The basic company registration process in Turkey is similar for most businesses, but the requirements can change significantly depending on your industry and planned activities.
Some businesses can begin operating after completing the standard incorporation and tax procedures, while regulated industries may require additional licences, permits, registrations or approvals. Explore our industry-specific guides below to understand the requirements that may apply to your business in Turkey.
How to Start a Manufacturing Company in Turkey?
Foreign investors can establish manufacturing companies in Turkey for domestic production or export activities. The appropriate structure depends on the investment size, production activity and licensing requirements.
FAQ on Establishing a Company in Turkey
What is company formation in Turkey?
How Can I register a Company in Turkey ?
In our web site, blog posts and videos you can find plenty of information on company registration in Turkey. We can divide our steps in to three sections, (i) trade registry in Turkey (ii) signature circular issuance and (iii) bank account opening in Turkey.
At first we require some information from you, these are as follows;
- Passport of the shareholders
- Business objective of the company
- Capital to be allocated for company registration in Turkey
- Business objective of the company
Also, we help you to obtain potential tax number in Turkey. With those information, we apply company registration in Turkey appointment at Istanbul trade registry. We accompany you with our sworn translator at trade registry. After your company is registered we meet with you at notary public to issue “signature circular”. It is a legal document that shows the signature specimen of the company. Finally, we assist you to open a commercial bank account .
Can Foreigners Open A Company In Turkey?
The shortest and simplest answer to this question is yes. According to the FDI law of Turkey, there remains no difference between a Turkish citizen and a foreigner when it comes to investing in the country. For further details please read our post, Can Foreigners Open A Company In Turkey?
Is company formation in Turkey possible without a Turkish shareholder?
Yes, it is not necessary to have a Turkish shareholder for company formation in Turkey. For further details please read our article, Can I Open a Company in Turkey Without Turkish Partner?
Is Online Company Registration in Turkey is Possible ?
How many shareholders do I need for Company Formation in Turkey?
Company registration in Turkey with a single shareholder is possible. Then, the sole shareholder of the company will automatically be a director.
How Long Does it Take to Register a Company in Turkey ?
If you co-operate with us efficiently the company registraion in Turkey including with bank account opening will be completed in 2-3 business days. Please read our article for further deteails, “How Long Does It Take To Register A Company In Turkey ?”
Are there any limits on the number of shareholders ?
For limited liability company formation in Turkey, the number of shareholders shall not exceed 50.
However, there is no legal consequence when a company exceeds such threshold.
How Much Does it Cost to Register a Company in Turkey ?
Are there any regional or local differences in the company registration in Turkey process across different provinces or municipalities in Turkey?
In Turkey, the company registration process is primarily governed by national laws and regulations, so the fundamental steps for registering a company are consistent across the country. However, there might be some variations or additional requirements depending on the specific province or municipality where the company intends to establish its headquarters or conduct business.
These variations could include differences in administrative procedures, local licensing requirements, zoning regulations, and specific industry regulations that may apply at the local level. Additionally, some provinces or municipalities may have their own economic development agencies or chambers of commerce that offer support services or incentives for businesses, which could impact the registration process.
Therefore, while the core steps of company registration remain largely uniform across Turkey, it’s advisable for investors to research and consult with local authorities or legal advisors in the specific region where they plan to operate to ensure compliance with any local regulations or procedures that may affect the registration process.
Can a Legal Entity be a shareholder for the Company in Turkey ?
Yes a legal entity can be a shareholder for Company Registration in Turkey procedures. Therefore, your company in your country can establish a company in Turkey. Please click to learn more for company establishment in Turkey with legal entity shareholder.
How much capital do I need for company formation in Turkey ?
You need at least 50.000-TL (from 01.01.2023) capital for company formation in Turkey. However, you do not need to deposit amount in advance. For more information please read our article on company’s capital in Turkey.
Can I Establish a Company in Turkey in any type ?
Please review the types of companies in Turkey
Can I Establish a Joint stock company in Turkey?
Yes you can open a joint stock company in Turkey as a foreigner. In Turkey such company type name is Anonim Sirket. Please read our article for more information.
For Company Registration in Turkey do I need to physically be in Turkey ?
No, we can complete the process on your behalf through the power of attorney provided by you. However, after the company formation in Turkey, the presence of an authorized signatory is necessary for some procedures. For furher information please read Should I Come to Turkey for Company Registration ?
Do I need to rent an office for company formation in Turkey?
Yes, however, you can establish a company in a virtual office with very reasonable fees to rent. In order to have deep analyse you can read our article. Please read ; Virtual Office In Turkey And Other Alternatives For Opening A Company in Turkey
For company registration in Turkey how much should I pay for the virtual office?
How much does it cost to register a company in Turkey?
The answer of this question can be answered based on the scope service to be acquired. Additionally, there are both government expenses and service fees for company registration in Turkey. Rather than indicating specific cost, the correct comparison should be made. The below are the items for the cost.
- Company Registration Service Fee
- Company Registration Official Expenses
- Notarization Fee
- Translation Fee
- Virtual Office Fee
- Bank Account Opening Service Fee
- Signature Circular Issuance Fee
The above elements are the items for the cost of company registration in Turkey. Please be assured from your service provider which items in the package which are not.
Do I need to have a work permit or resident permit for company formation in Turkey?
Can I automatically get a residence permit when I open a company in Turkey?
No, company registration in Turkey and residence permit are completely separate process. Please read for details can I get a resident permit when I open a company in Turkey.
Do I need an accountant when I open a company in Turkey?
Yes, after you establish a company in Turkey, you need to have a certified accountant. Please read our blog post for the further details. Do I need an accountant in Turkey.
Do I need a lawyer for company registration in Turkey ?
How much Tax will I pay after company registration in Turkey
For corporate income tax to be paid after company regitration in Turkey please read our post corporate income tax in Turkey.
Can I open a company in Turkey as “Sole Proprietorship”?
Are there any restrictions on the items to be defined in Article of Associations?
How can I choose the trade name of a LLC in Turkey?
The business objective (such as food, textile etc) and the type of company (LLC) are the mandatory elements of the trade name of the company in Turkey. By complying with these mandatory elements, the shareholders can freely determine the trade name during company formation in Turkey. Additionally, the mandatory elements should be in Turkish language. On the other hand, the initial name can be in foreign language. Also, such name should not be registered in Turkey before. For further information please read “Determining a trade name in Turkey”
Can I change the name of the company after regitration ?
Can I open an e-commerce company in Turkey ?
Do I need a customs broker in Turkey ?
How can I notarize my required documents for company registration in Turkey ?
Do I need a Tax Number in Turkey?
Is it Possible to Request Company Formation in Turkey Expenses from the Company?
Can I open a Trading Company in Turkey?
Can I Get Work Permit After Company Registration in Turkey?
Yes, you can. However, there are some conditions, please read our articl Work Permit in Turkey?
Do I Need an Export License in Turkey ?
How Can I close my company in Turkey ?
Can I Register My Trademark in Turkey
Are there any advantages for start-up companies in Turkey
Are there any government incentives for opening a company in Turkey
How can I find a nominee director in Turkey?
Is Nominee Directorship in Turkey is possible for company registration in Turkey?
In Turkey there no nominee concept. There is single type of director. This director will be responsible for the liabilities for arising from the law. For further information please read Nominee director in Turkey.
Can I Open A Branch Office in Turkey
What is A Subsidiary in Turkey?
How Can I Choose the Nace Code in Turkey?
Need Professional Support for Company Registration in Turkey?
FO Consultancy assists foreign investors with company formation, legal structuring, bank account opening, tax registration and post-incorporation procedures in Turkey.
Do I need to renew my company in Turkey every year ?
No, you do not renew your company as long as you fulfil your obligations and your company is active.
Do I need to come to Turkey for bank Account opening ?
Eventhough by the law with Power of Attorney you can open a bank Account, in some cases banks wish to see the client physically. So please consult us.
When Can I get my resident permit after I establish the company in Turkey ?
Company formation does not autamatically grant you a resident permit, it is separete process.
Hello we are from Pakistan and wish to form a LLC company for general trading based on 2 partners, and 3 employees, in turkey. And we are planning to visit turkey in march. I wanted to know the detailed procedure of cost of establishing the company, trade license fees, business visa, your consultancy fees, ownership issues, and time involved. As we would be coming on visit visa and gotta plan it all along so lagging doesn’t occur. Also tell me will our visa would be converted and how long will it be taking?
Hello Mr. Hussain. Thank you very much for reaching us for company formation in Turkey. We will be happy to answer all your questions through an online meeting. Please reach us.