Practice area
Company Formation for Foreign Investors
Support for foreign investors in Türkiye, from choosing the type of company to registration with the trade registry and beyond.
Scope
Foreign investors may generally set up a company in Türkiye on the same terms as domestic investors. Under the Turkish Commercial Code No. 6102, the limited company and the joint stock company are the most common forms, and the choice should reflect the shareholding structure and the nature of the business. Our firm assists investors from preparing the incorporation documents to registration and subsequent corporate matters.
- Choosing the type of company and the shareholding structure
- Drafting the articles of association and incorporation documents
- Tax identification numbers and legalisation of documents for foreign shareholders
- Registration with the trade registry and opening a bank account
- Setting up branches, liaison offices and subsidiaries
- Share transfers, capital increases and general assembly matters
Process
How it generally works
- Initial meeting and planning
The business activity, shareholding structure and capital plan are reviewed to identify the appropriate type of company.
- Preparing documents
Foreign shareholders’ documents are prepared with an apostille and a notarised translation, and tax identification numbers are obtained.
- Articles and registration
The articles of association are drawn up, the application is filed with the trade registry office and registration is completed.
- Post-incorporation steps
Registration with the tax office, the bank account and the required notifications are followed up.
- Ongoing corporate matters
We continue to advise on general assemblies, share transfers and contractual needs.
- Passports of individual foreign shareholders with apostilled translations
- Certificate of good standing and authority documents for corporate shareholders
- Turkish tax identification number
- Lease or title deed for the registered office
- Specimen signature declarations of authorised signatories
- Bank document evidencing payment of capital
- Power of attorney
Questions
Lawyers working in this area
- Av. Tarık Soylubey · TR EN DE
- Av. Selma Haddadoğlu · TR EN AR
Can a foreign individual set up a company in Türkiye alone?
Limited and joint stock companies may be formed with a single shareholder, and foreign nationality is not in itself an obstacle. Some business activities, however, require additional permits or licences. It is therefore important to define the scope of activity correctly from the outset.
Does forming a company give a right to a residence permit?
Being a shareholder does not in itself give a right to a residence permit; residence and work permits are granted on separate applications assessed by the relevant authorities. A director or employee of the company may be able to apply for a work permit. The conditions depend on the individual’s circumstances.
Is it necessary to travel to Türkiye to incorporate?
Much of the incorporation process can be completed without travelling, under a properly executed power of attorney. Some steps, such as opening a bank account, may require attendance in person depending on the bank’s practice. The timetable is planned with these steps in mind.
This content is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.