Do I Need a Turkish Partner to Open a Company in Turkey?

  • July 5, 2025
  • Posted by: admin
  • Category: Blog
No Comments

 

Introduction

One of the most frequently asked questions by international entrepreneurs is: “Do I need a Turkish partner to open a company in Turkey?” The answer to this question is essential for planning a successful investment strategy. Whether you’re establishing a startup, setting up a branch, or relocating your operations to a promising market, knowing your legal rights and obligations in advance helps avoid costly delays.

In this comprehensive guide, we will examine whether you need a Turkish partner to open a company in Turkey , explore the company structures available, outline the steps of the registration process, and provide practical insights into operating as a foreign business owner.

This guide also touches upon essential legal services, translation services in Turkey, the role of notaries in Turkey, and how to use a power of attorney in Turkey. It includes relevant links to official government resources and institutions such as the Ministry of Trade and Istanbul Chamber of Commerce.

1. Can a Foreigner Open a Company in Turkey Without a Turkish Partner?

Legal Perspective

The short answer is: Yes, a foreigner can open a company in Turkey without a Turkish partner. Turkish Commercial Law allows 100% foreign ownership for Limited Liability Companies (LLC) and Joint Stock Companies (JSC). You do not need a Turkish citizen or resident partner to meet legal requirements.

The law ensures that foreign investors enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as local investors. This makes Turkey an attractive destination for business expansion, especially for entrepreneurs from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Relevant Legal Framework:

2. Company Structures Available for Foreign Investors

There are several company types available under Turkish law. The two most common are:

a. Limited Liability Company (LLC)

  • Minimum 1 shareholder (can be foreign)
  • Minimum capital: 50,000 TRY
  • Suitable for SMEs

b. Joint Stock Company (JSC)

  • Minimum 1 shareholder (can be foreign)
  • Minimum capital: 250,000 TRY
  • Suitable for larger enterprises or if IPO is planned

In both cases, there is no requirement to have a Turkish partner.

3. Advantages of 100% Foreign Ownership

  • Full Control: You make all decisions as the sole shareholder.
  • Profit Repatriation: Profits can be legally transferred abroad.
  • No Mandatory Local Partnership: Avoids complexities in decision-making and profit sharing.

4. Role of Turkish Partner (When Chosen Voluntarily)

Although not legally required, some foreign investors prefer to include a Turkish partner for practical reasons:

  • Local market knowledge
  • Business development and networking
  • Faster bureaucracy navigation

However, this is purely optional.

5. Step-by-Step Process to Open a Company in Turkey Without a Turkish Partner

  1. Prepare Required Documents
  2. Get Documents Translated and Notarized (via notaries in Turkey)
  3. Appoint a Local Representative (Optional)
  4. Register at MERSIS (https://mersis.gtb.gov.tr)
  5. Deposit Capital in a Bank
  6. Apply for Tax ID and Social Security Number
  7. Register with the Trade Registry Office
  8. Obtain Operating License if Needed
  9. Notify the Tax Office

This process is similar for both local and foreign investors. Please visit our main page www.fo-consultancy.com for all details and kindly contact us through e-mail or whatsapp.

6. Important Legal Support Services

a. English Speaking Lawyer in Turkey

It is strongly recommended to work with an English speaking lawyer in Turkey who understands both local laws and international business standards.

b. Power of Attorney in Turkey

If you’re not physically present in Turkey, you can issue a power of attorney in Turkey to allow your lawyer or consultant to act on your behalf.

c. Translation Services in Turkey

All foreign documents must be translated into Turkish by a sworn translator. Therefore, reliable translation services in Turkey are essential.

7. Do You Need a Physical Office Address?

Yes. You must have a registered address in Turkey. Virtual offices in Turkey or shared workspaces are accepted for many business types.

8. Banking and Financial Considerations

Foreigners can open corporate bank accounts in Turkey without a local partner. However, banks may require:

  • A Turkish tax ID number
  • A company registration certificate
  • KYC documents of shareholders

For more details, read our article for complete guide for bank account opening in Turkey.

9. Taxation and Labor Law Obligations

As a business owner, you must comply with:

Understanding Labor Law in Turkey is crucial if you plan to hire local or foreign employees.

10. When Might a Turkish Partner Be Advantageous?

Although not mandatory, you may consider a Turkish partner for:

  • Government tenders
  • Industry-specific licenses
  • Access to certain grants or incentives

11. Common Misconceptions

  • Misconception: A Turkish partner is always required
    • Truth: Not required by law
  • Misconception: You can’t send money abroad
    • Truth: Profit repatriation is legal with proper documentation

12. Useful Resources

Conclusion

To summarize, you do not need a Turkish partner to open a company in Turkey. While including a local partner can have strategic advantages, it is not a legal obligation. Turkey’s investor-friendly legal structure allows foreigners to own 100% of a business, choose their company type, and control operations independently.

Whether you are exploring company formation in Turkey, considering opening a company in Turkey remotely, or seeking help from an English Speaking Lawyer in Turkey, knowing your options is the first step toward success.

With the support of professionals, legal tools like a power of attorney in Turkey, trusted notaries in Turkey, and dependable translation services in Turkey, establishing your business in Turkey can be a smooth and rewarding experience.

For foreign investors aiming for long-term stability and growth, Turkey remains a promising hub for innovation, logistics, tourism, and manufacturing.

 



Leave a Reply