Steps to Establish a Company in Turkey | Registration Process Guide

Company Establishment in Turkey | An Overview

Thanks to the Central Registration System (MERSİS), the process of establishing a company in Turkey is fast, transparent, and open to both local and foreign investors. In fact, if documents are prepared correctly, the registration can be completed in as little as one day at the Trade Registry Directorate.

This guide explains the key steps of company formation under Turkish law.

Step 1: Draft the Company Agreement on MERSİS

• Start by creating a free MERSİS account (https://mersis.gtb.gov.tr).
• Draft the Articles of Association (for Joint Stock Companies) or the Company Contract (for Limited Companies) in Turkish.
• Add shareholders with:
  • ID number (for Turkish citizens),
  • Passport number + tax number (for foreign shareholders).

Learn about company types: Types of Companies in Turkey.

Step 2: Obtain a Tax Number for Foreign Shareholders

Foreign individuals or entities must first obtain a Turkish tax number from the tax office before they can be added to MERSİS. This step is mandatory for both shareholders and directors.

Step 3: Certification of Signatures

Founders and authorised representatives must certify their signatures. This can be done:

• Directly at the Trade Registry Directorate where the company will be registered (for Ltd. Şti. and cooperatives).
• Or via any Turkish notary public, using the electronic tracking number from MERSİS.

Step 4: Deposit the Competition Authority Fee

• 0.04% of the company’s capital must be paid as a Competition Authority fee.
• This is usually handled directly at the Trade Registry Directorate together with other establishment steps.

Step 5: Deposit Minimum Capital (for A.Ş. only)

For Joint Stock Companies:

• At least 25% of the subscribed capital must be deposited into a bank account opened in the company’s name before registration.
• The remaining balance must be paid within 24 months.

For Limited Companies: the capital may be paid in full within 24 months after registration.

Step 6: Apply to the Trade Registry Directorate

Submit the prepared documents to the Trade Registry Directorate. These typically include:

• Approved company contract or articles,
• Signature declarations,
• Proof of fee payments,
• Bank receipt for capital deposit (if required).

Upon approval:

• The company is officially registered,
• Commercial books are issued and approved,
• The company receives its potential tax number automatically from MERSİS.

Full checklist: Documents for Company Registration in Turkey.

Step 7: Post-Registration Formalities

• Register with the Tax Office and Social Security Institution (SGK).
• Open a bank account in the company’s name.
• Obtain necessary business licences depending on the activity sector.

Establishment Timeline

• MERSİS drafting: 1 day
• Tax number & signature certification: 1–2 days
• Registry application & approval: Same day (if documents are complete)

In total, a company can be fully established within 1 week or less.

Why Legal Assistance is Essential

Although the process is streamlined, details such as drafting the articles, determining liability, and ensuring compliance with Turkish corporate law can be complex. MFY Legal provides comprehensive assistance from document drafting to post-registration compliance.

Contact us today to establish your company in Turkey with ease and legal security.