This article provides information about how to start a business in Turkey as a foreign investor in 2026. Explore this information and reach out to our Turkish lawyers for legal services throughout the incorporation stages of a company in Turkey.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Types of companies available in Turkey |
– limited liability company, – joint stock company, – commercial partnership, – sole proprietorship, etc. |
|
The most popular business structure in Turkey |
Limited liability company (LTD) |
|
Minimum share capital for a Turkish LLC |
TRY 50,000 |
| Registration formalities for an LLC in Turkey |
– registration of the business address, – preparation of Articles of Association, – opening a bank account, – tax registration, – application for special licenses and permits |
| Local representative required (YES/NO) |
Yes |
| Local company management |
It can be local or foreign, depending on the business projects. |
| Company domiciliation available |
We can help foreign businessmen domiciliate their companies in Turkey. |
| Hiring staff |
Immigration matters should be observed in the case of foreign workers. |
| Corporate tax rate in Turkey |
20% |
| VAT registration in Turkey |
Companies with commercial activities in Turkey must be registered for VAT. Our local experts can provide assistance. |
| Can I open a company in Turkey's free zones? |
Yes, you can set up a company in industrial free zones, IT development zones, or other free zones and benefit from a dedicated tax system. |
| Support for trademark registration (YES/NO) |
Yes |
| We represent clients with a power of attorney (YES/NO) |
Yes |
| Other services you can benefit from when opening a company in Turkey |
– tax advice and planning, – accounting services, – legal advice for immigration issues |
| Why choose our Turkish law firm |
– experienced team of lawyers, – dedicated legal services at affordable prices, – personalized offers |
Table of Contents
Who can start businesses in Turkey?
Both local and foreign entrepreneurs, whether natural persons or business entities.
What types of companies are available in Turkey?
- Limited liability company (LTD),
- Joint stock company (AS),
- Commandite company,
- Collective company,
- General & limited partnership,
- Sole proprietorship,
- Branch & subsidiary, etc.
Where is the business registration done in Turkey?
At the Trade Registry Directorate (Ticaret Sicili Müdürlüğü) of the Chamber of Commerce in Turkey. MERSIS is the Central Registry System in Turkey that allows online incorporation.
What is the legislation on starting companies in Turkey?
- Turkish Commercial Code (TCC) No. 6102,
- Foreign Direct Investment Law No. 4875.
What is the most popular business structure in Turkey?
The limited liability company known in Turkey as Limited Şirket – Ltd. Şti.
What is the minimum share capital for an LLC in Turkey?
TRY 50,000.
Here is an infographic explaining the main steps for setting up a business in Turkey:
What are the steps in opening an LLC in Turkey?
- register a business address/office for your company in Turkey,
- prepare the Articles and Memorandum of Association,
- open a local bank account,
- register for taxation and obtain the Tax Identification Number (TIN),
- obtain a business license in Turkey,
- deposit 25% of the minimum capital required.
Can I open a business in Turkey without traveling here?
Yes, our Turkish lawyers can represent customers with a Power of Attorney.
How can I register a sole trader in Turkey?
With the Turkish Chamber of Commerce, in about 30 days. A TIN must be obtained first, alongside the residence permit in Turkey.
IMPORTANT! Opening a sole proprietorship in Turkey requires hiring an accounting specialist to handle the tax registration with the local office.
Our lawyers invite you to watch a video about the company incorporation process in Turkey:
What are the requirements for opening a joint stock company in Turkey?
- deposit at least 35% of TRY 250,000 (minimum share capital),
- draft and notarize the Articles of Association,
- register for taxation,
- provide notarized signatures,
- apply through MERSIS.
How can I establish a branch in Turkey?
Simple! With the legal support of our Turkish lawyers. You will need to provide us with a specific declaration from the parent company stating that a branch will be established in Turkey.
What is the time frame for registering a business in Turkey?
It takes around 2 weeks to start a business in Turkey.
What legal services do you provide for starting a business in Turkey?
- drafting & submitting company documents,
- legal representation in front of Turkish authorities for registration,
- tax advice & compliance,
- immigration matters for staff and/or company relocation to Turkey,
- accounting & HR, etc.
Can I start a business in Turkey with a virtual office?
Yes, check here for information.
Do I need a Turkish partner to start a business in Turkey in 2026?
No!
Are startups available in Turkey? If yes, what are the requirements?
Yes, startups can be registered by anyone interested in developing activities in Turkey. The registration formalities are the ones for LLCs explained above.
What is the corporate income tax for companies in Turkey?
25% rate. Lower rates apply under specific conditions.
What are the costs for business registration in Turkey?
- TRY 10,000 – TRY 15,000 covering the expenses for book certification, gazette announcement, and service charges,
- TRY 28,000 – TRY 35,000 for notary services,
- TRY 500 – TRY 800 for company stamp, etc.
Contact our lawyers in Turkey and find out all the details for starting a business here in 2026.