Turkey offers foreign entrepreneurs direct access to a large domestic market and a strategic base between Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia. Company registration in Turkey is open to foreign investors on the same terms as Turkish citizens, and the process can usually be completed within a few weeks once your documents are ready.
Bigist Invest helps international investors start a business in Turkey from the first decision to the first invoice: choosing the right company type, preparing documents, completing registration and setting up tax, bank and accounting obligations.
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Can Foreigners Own 100% of a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Under Turkey's Foreign Direct Investment Law, foreign individuals and foreign companies can establish a company in Turkey and hold 100% of its shares. There is no requirement to have a Turkish partner, and foreign investors are treated on equal terms with local investors. Certain regulated sectors, such as banking, insurance, energy or education, have additional licensing rules.
Company Types in Turkey Compared
Most foreign investors choose between a limited liability company and a joint stock company. Foreign companies that only want a local presence can also open a branch or a liaison office.
| Company type | Shareholders | Minimum capital | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Limited Company (Ltd. Şti.) | 1 to 50 | TRY 50,000 | Small and medium-sized businesses, trading, services, consultancy |
| Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.) | 1 or more | TRY 250,000 | Larger investments, multiple investors, future share transfers |
| Branch Office | Owned by the foreign parent | No separate capital requirement | Foreign companies carrying out commercial activity in Turkey |
| Liaison Office | Owned by the foreign parent | Requires ministry approval | Market research and representation only, no commercial income |
For most of our clients, a limited company is the simplest and most cost-effective structure. A joint stock company is usually preferred when several investors are involved or when shares may be sold later.
How to Register a Company in Turkey: Step by Step
- Choose the company type and name. We check name availability and agree the business activities, capital and management structure with you.
- Obtain a Turkish tax number. Each foreign shareholder and manager needs a Turkish tax identification number, which can be obtained quickly at a tax office or through a representative.
- Prepare and legalise documents. Foreign documents are translated into Turkish and notarised, and, where required, apostilled or certified by a Turkish consulate.
- Draft the articles of association. The articles are prepared through MERSIS, the Central Registry System, and signed by the shareholders.
- Deposit the capital where required. Depending on the company type, part of the capital may need to be deposited in a Turkish bank before registration.
- Register with the Trade Registry Office. The company is registered with the local trade registry and the registration is announced in the Turkish Trade Registry Gazette.
- Complete tax office and social security registrations. The tax office verifies the business address, and the company is registered with the Social Security Institution (SGK) before hiring staff.
- Set up banking and accounting. A corporate bank account is opened, statutory books are certified, and a licensed accountant (mali müşavir) is appointed to handle ongoing filings.
Once documents are ready, registration typically takes one to three weeks. The timeline depends on how quickly foreign documents can be legalised and on the workload of the local trade registry.
Documents Required for Company Formation in Turkey
For individual foreign shareholders
- Passport copy, translated into Turkish and notarised
- Turkish tax identification number
- Passport-size photographs
- Address details, and a power of attorney if a representative will act for you
For corporate foreign shareholders
- Certificate of incorporation or good standing of the parent company
- Board resolution approving the investment in Turkey and appointing representatives
- Articles of association of the parent company where requested
- All documents apostilled or consulate-certified, then translated into Turkish and notarised
You will also need a registered business address in Turkey. This can be an office, a shared office or, for some activities, a virtual office.
Costs of Setting Up a Company in Turkey
The total cost of company formation depends on the company type, the capital, the number of shareholders and how many foreign documents need to be legalised. Typical cost items include:
- Notary, translation and apostille fees
- Trade registry and gazette announcement fees
- Fees calculated on the company capital
- Professional service fees for registration and accounting setup
- Ongoing monthly accounting fees after registration
Because official fees are updated regularly, we provide a written cost breakdown for your specific case before you start.
After Registration: Ongoing Obligations
Every company in Turkey must keep statutory books, file regular tax returns and comply with social security rules. Key obligations include:
- Corporate tax, filed annually, with advance tax payments during the year
- VAT returns, usually filed monthly
- Withholding tax and social security declarations for employees
- Electronic invoicing and record-keeping, depending on company size and activity
These filings are handled by a licensed accountant. We help you set up this relationship from day one so your company stays compliant.
Residence and Work Permits Through Your Company
Owning or managing a company in Turkey can support an application for a residence permit or a work permit. Shareholders and managers who will work in the company may apply for a work permit, which is assessed against criteria such as company capital, turnover and Turkish employment. Shareholders who will not work in the company can consider other options, such as a short-term residence permit.
For investors who also want long-term status for their family, we explain how a company can be combined with Turkish citizenship by investment or a family residence permit.
Setting Up a Company Remotely
You do not need to stay in Turkey throughout the process. With a power of attorney issued at a Turkish consulate or a notary in Turkey, our team can complete most steps on your behalf, from tax registration to trade registry filings. Some steps, such as opening a corporate bank account, may require your presence or a video verification depending on the bank.
Our Company Setup Service in Turkey
Bigist Invest supports foreign investors through every stage of setting up a business in Turkey:
- Advice on the most suitable company structure for your goals
- Tax number applications and document preparation
- Translation, notarisation and legalisation coordination
- Trade registry, tax office and social security registration
- Corporate bank account and accounting setup
- Guidance on residence and work permit options
- Market research, feasibility studies and investment planning for new ventures
If you are also considering property, we can combine your business plans with our property investment in Turkey and property management services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does company registration in Turkey take?
Once all documents are ready, registration usually takes one to three weeks. Legalising foreign documents can add extra time, so we recommend starting this step early.
Can a foreigner open a company in Turkey alone?
Yes. Both limited companies and joint stock companies can be established with a single shareholder, and that shareholder can be a foreign individual or company.
Do I need to live in Turkey to start a business?
No. Most of the process can be completed through a power of attorney. You may need to be present for some banking steps.
What is the minimum capital for a company in Turkey?
The minimum capital is TRY 50,000 for a limited company and TRY 250,000 for a joint stock company. Higher capital may be advisable if you plan to apply for work permits.
Do I need an accountant after registration?
Yes. Turkish companies must keep statutory books and file regular tax returns, which are prepared by a licensed accountant.
Does setting up a company give me a residence permit?
A company does not grant residence automatically, but it can support a residence or work permit application, subject to the criteria set by the authorities.
Which company type should I choose?
Most foreign entrepreneurs start with a limited company because it is simpler and has a lower capital requirement. A joint stock company suits larger projects or businesses with several investors.
Start Your Business in Turkey with Bigist Invest
Tell us about your business idea and we will recommend the right structure, explain the steps and provide a clear cost breakdown before you commit.
Get a free company setup consultation →
Last updated: October 2026. Official requirements and fees can change; we confirm the current rules for your case before you start.