The 2026 Guide to Foreign Company Registration in Turkey

Setting up a company in Turkey offers foreign investors a strategic gateway connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. With its large consumer market, logistics advantages, and growth opportunities across manufacturing, technology, real estate, and logistics, Turkey is an attractive destination for international business owners.

Thanks to digital systems like the Central Registry Recording System (MERSIS) and the Trade Registry Directorate, the company formation process is now highly manageable – especially with professional support. GlobalBridge Turkey provides end‑to‑end assistance, including trademark registration, virtual office services, investment incentive pre‑assessment, open‑source company analysis, commercial product sourcing, and legal follow‑up via power of attorney.

Why Do Foreign Investors Choose Turkey for Company Formation?
In most sectors, Turkey allows 100% foreign ownership – no local partner is required. The country offers a competitive corporate tax rate and various incentives for qualified investments, creating a business‑friendly environment.
The most popular company types among foreign investors are:
Limited Liability Company (Ltd. Şti.) – Ideal for small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) and most foreign investors.
Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.) – Suitable for larger operations or those planning to raise capital.
Capital structure and management requirements differ by company type. GlobalBridge Turkey helps you choose the right structure with sector analysis and transparent advice.
Step‑by‑Step Guide to Company Formation in Turkey

Step 1: Determine Company Type and Business Activities
Decide whether to form an Ltd. Şti. or A.Ş., and define your business activities using the correct NACE codes. These codes determine sector‑specific regulations and potential incentives. GlobalBridge Turkey provides open‑source sector analysis to help you select the optimal structure.

Step 2: Reserve Your Company Name via MERSIS
Check and reserve your proposed trade name through the MERSIS online system. The name must comply with the Turkish Commercial Code and not conflict with existing registrations. This step issues a company application reference number.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Foreign investors typically need:
Passport copy – Notarised and translated into Turkish by a sworn translator (apostille may be required depending on your country).
Articles of Association – Prepared in Turkish, detailing partnership structure, capital, and management.
Power of Attorney – If you will not be physically present in Turkey, this authorises a representative to act on your behalf.
All foreign documents must be translated by a sworn translator and notarised.

Step 4: Notary Procedures and Signature Circular
The Articles of Association and the Signature Circular (İmza Sirküleri) must be approved before a notary. This step has standard, transparent fees.

Step 5: Deposit the Minimum Capital
Deposit the legally required minimum capital (50,000 TL for Ltd. Şti., 250,000 TL for A.Ş.) through a Turkish bank. The deposit receipt is required for registration.

Step 6: Apply to the Trade Registry Directorate
Submit all documents to the Trade Registry via MERSIS. Once approved, your company gains legal personality, receives a Trade Registry number, and is announced in the Trade Registry Gazette.

Step 7: Post‑Registration Procedures
After registration, complete the following:
Tax office registration – Obtain your tax plate (Vergi Levhası).
SGK registration – Register your workplace and any employees with the Social Security Institution.
Corporate bank account – Open a multi‑currency business account.
Electronic signature and company stamp – Required for certain transactions.
Basic registration typically takes 5‑10 business days. Including document collection and translation, the total process may take 2‑4 weeks.
Key Documents for Foreign Investors
Notarised and translated passport
Power of attorney (if applicable)
Articles of Association
Capital deposit receipt
Signature Circular
GlobalBridge Turkey manages these steps seamlessly with local partners, minimising delays.
Common Challenges and Solutions in Company Formation
Foreign investors sometimes face delays due to missing documents, incorrect NACE codes, or language barriers. Professional guidance significantly reduces these risks. Additionally, if you plan to live in Turkey and manage operations, you should plan your work permit application after company formation.
GlobalBridge Turkey follows The Bridge Protocol™ – a structured approach comprising Discovery & Planning, Documentation, Execution, Integration, and Ongoing Support. We also integrate trademark registration, virtual office, investment incentive research, and power of attorney follow‑up into your package from the start.
Integration with Other Services
Many investors combine company formation with:
Trademark registration – Protect your brand.
Virtual office solutions – Low‑cost professional address.
Residence or work permit applications – Legalise your stay.
Legal and tax consulting – Optimise your structure.
This integrated approach reduces administrative burden and speeds up market entry.
Next Steps for Foreign Investors
Registering a company in Turkey as a foreigner is an accessible and efficient process when approached systematically. With proper planning and professional guidance, you can ensure legal compliance while building a foundation for long‑term success.
The information in this article is for general informational purposes only. The company formation process may vary based on your individual circumstances. We recommend confirming current legislation, capital requirements, and procedures with our professional advisors. GlobalBridge Turkey acts with a responsible approach and cares that every investor takes the right steps for their specific situation.

📞 Book a Free Consultation – Request a personalised roadmap for your investment in Turkey.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal, financial, or investment advice. While we strive to maintain high standards of accuracy and “Radical Transparency,” regulations and market conditions in Turkey may change frequently.
We strongly recommend consulting with our professional advisors or legal experts before taking any formal action or committing to an investment. GlobalBridge Turkey and its partners cannot be held liable for any decisions made or actions taken based on the content of this article.

Last updated: April 13, 2026