Company Registration in Turkey: Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners (2026)

Turkey serves as a strategic bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, offering immense opportunities for international business. For foreign investors, company registration in Turkey is a transparent and streamlined process, provided that the legal procedures are executed correctly under the guidance of a qualified Turkish lawyer.

While the Turkish legal system encourages Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), navigating the regulations, tax laws, and the MERSIS system requires professional expertise. This guide covers everything you need to know about company formation in Turkey, from required documents to registration costs.

Can Foreigners Register a Company in Turkey?

Yes. Under the Turkish Foreign Direct Investment Law, foreign investors are subject to the “equal treatment” principle. This means you have the same rights and obligations as local investors.

You can register a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership without needing a Turkish partner. Whether you are looking to establish a new entity or open a foreign company branch in Turkey, the legal framework is supportive of global entrepreneurs. Additionally, for those seeking to relocate their entire operations, moving a foreign company to Turkey is also a viable legal option.

How to Register a Company in Turkey? (5 Steps)

If you are researching steps to establish a company in Turkey, the process generally takes 3 to 5 working days. Below is the updated workflow for 2026.

1. Determine the Company Type

The most common entity types for foreigners are:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Requires a minimum capital of 50,000 TRY. It is the most preferred model for small to medium-sized businesses.
• Joint Stock Company (JSC): Requires a minimum capital of 250,000 TRY. Ideal for larger operations and those seeking to go public.

2. MERSIS Registration and Articles of Association

The MERSIS (Central Registry Record System) is the central database for all economic activities managed by the Ministry of Trade.

• Your lawyer will create a MERSIS registration on your behalf.
• The Articles of Association are prepared and uploaded to the system.
• A potential tax number for foreigners is obtained for shareholders.

3. Signing and Notarization

Shareholders must sign the Articles of Association. This can be done at the Trade Registry Office or a Turkish Notary. If the shareholders are abroad, a Power of Attorney (PoA) is required to complete the process remotely.

4. Capital Deposit and Competition Authority Fee

• For JSCs, at least 25% of the capital must be blocked in a bank account before registration.
• 0.04% of the capital must be paid to the Competition Authority deposit account.

5. Final Registration and Tax Verification

Once the documents are submitted to the Trade Registry Office, the company is officially established. The final step involves:

• Publication in the Turkish Trade Registry Gazette.
• Registration with the local Tax Office.
• Social Security Institution (SGK) notification.

Required Documents for Company Formation

To proceed with the registration, specific documentation is essential. Detailed guidance can be found in our article on documents for company registration in Turkey. Key requirements include:

• Passport Copies: Notarized and translated into Turkish.
• Tax ID Number: Obtained from the Turkish tax office.
• Biometric Photos: For company partners.
• Proof of Address: For the company headquarters.
• Power of Attorney: If a lawyer is handling the process.

Post-Registration: What’s Next?

After successfully registering your company, there are several strategic steps to consider:

• Work Permits: As a foreign shareholder, you may need a work permit for company partners to actively manage your business in Turkey.
• Citizenship by Investment: If your capital investment or property purchase meets the criteria (min. $400,000 for real estate), you might be eligible for Turkish Citizenship by Investment.
• Real Estate: Many investors choose to buy property in Turkey to use as a home office or for investment purposes.

FAQ: Company Registration in Turkey

Ready to Start Your Business in Turkey? Navigating local regulations requires precision. MFY Legal provides end-to-end support for company registration, ensuring a legally compliant and fast market entry.

Contact Us Now to schedule a consultation for your company formation.