With over three decades of experience since 1992, Akkas & Associates Law Firm has guided countless foreign investors through the Turkish company registration process. Our English-speaking lawyers will walk you through everything you need to know about establishing your business in Turkey in 2025.
Turkey stands out in 2025 as a premier destination for entrepreneurs, thanks to its dynamic position linking Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The government’s pro-business initiatives, modern infrastructure, tax benefits, and vast market potential make Turkey exceptionally attractive for both local and foreign investors.
Business registration in Turkey is streamlined and accessible, especially for those seeking to leverage its customs union with the EU and gain access to a large domestic market of over 85 million inhabitants.
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As Akkas & Associates Law Firm, a top-notch full-service law firm located in Istanbul, we have been providing exceptional legal services since 1992. Our deep understanding of Turkish commercial law positions us perfectly to guide foreign investors through the intricacies of Turkish company registration.
The Allure of Turkish Business in 2025
The year 2025 continues to showcase Turkey as a vibrant hub for investment. Its young, skilled workforce, coupled with a growing consumer market, presents significant opportunities. Furthermore, the Turkish government actively encourages foreign direct investment through various incentives and a continually improving regulatory environment.
Establishing a company here means tapping into a bridge between East and West, offering unparalleled access to diverse markets.

Choosing Your Business Structure: Key Company Types
The first crucial step in Turkish company registration is selecting the appropriate legal entity. The Turkish Commercial Code (TCC) provides several options, each with distinct advantages and requirements. For foreign investors, the most common choices are:
- Limited Liability Company (Limited Şirket – Ltd. Şti.): This is the most popular choice for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) due to its simplicity and flexibility. It requires a minimum of one shareholder (individual or legal entity) and a minimum capital of TRY 50,000 as of 2025. Shareholder liability is limited to their subscribed capital.
- Joint Stock Company (Anonim Şirket – A.Ş.): Ideal for larger ventures, public offerings, or businesses seeking significant investment. A Joint Stock Company requires a minimum of one shareholder and a minimum capital of TRY 250,000 as of 2025, with at least 25% paid up front. This structure offers greater prestige and is subject to more rigorous corporate governance rules.
- Branch Office/Liaison Office: While not independent legal entities, these options allow foreign companies to establish a presence in Turkey. A liaison office is typically for market research or representation and cannot engage in commercial activities, whereas a branch office can conduct business.
Understanding these structures is paramount. Our team at Akkas & Associates can help you determine the most suitable option for your specific business goals and operational needs. You can learn more about specific company types on our dedicated page: Limited Liability Company Formation in Turkey.
The Streamlined Process: 5 Essential Steps
Registering a company in Turkey involves a series of structured steps designed to be efficient, especially with expert legal guidance.
- Preparation of Documents and Shareholder Information: This initial phase involves gathering all necessary personal and corporate documents from shareholders and directors. For foreign individuals, notarized and apostilled passport copies are essential. For foreign legal entities, certificates of activity, resolutions, and details of authorized signatories are required. Obtaining Turkish tax identification numbers for all foreign partners and directors is a prerequisite.
- Drafting and Notarization of Articles of Association: The Articles of Association are the foundational legal document for your company. They define the company’s purpose, capital structure, management, and internal governance rules. This document must be meticulously drafted and then notarized in Turkey.
- Deposit of Minimum Capital and Registration with Trade Registry: Depending on your chosen company type, the required minimum capital must be deposited into a temporary company bank account. Following this, the meticulously prepared documents, including the notarized Articles of Association and proof of capital deposit, are submitted to the relevant Trade Registry Office. This step officially recognizes your company as a legal entity.
- Obtaining Tax Registration and Social Security Numbers: Once registered with the Trade Registry, your company will be registered with the tax authorities to obtain its tax identification number. If you plan to hire employees, registration with the Social Security Institution (SGK) is also mandatory.
- Acquiring Necessary Permits and Licenses: Depending on your industry and specific business activities, additional permits and licenses may be required from various governmental bodies. This can range from operational licenses to specific sector-based approvals. Diligent research and application are crucial at this stage.
Why Expert Legal Counsel is Indispensable
Navigating the Turkish legal landscape, while increasingly streamlined, still requires a nuanced understanding of local regulations, language, and bureaucratic procedures. A minor oversight can lead to significant delays or complications. This is where Akkas & Associates Law Firm proves invaluable.
Our experienced company formation lawyers at Akkas & Associates have assisted numerous foreign clients from around the globe in successfully establishing their businesses in Istanbul. We offer comprehensive support, from initial consultation and company type selection to drafting all necessary documents, facilitating notarizations, managing Trade Registry applications, and guiding you through tax and social security registrations.
Our services extend to providing company address services and assisting with corporate governance post-registration. For further details on our comprehensive corporate law services, please visit: Turkish Corporate Law & Governance.
Advantages of Company Registration in Turkey
Beyond the legal necessities, registering a company in Turkey offers numerous compelling advantages:
- Strategic Geographic Location: Turkey serves as a natural bridge, connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa, offering unique logistical and market access benefits.
- Favorable Investment Climate: The Turkish government consistently implements policies to attract and support foreign investment, including various tax incentives and a stable banking system. You can explore relevant investment insights from official sources like the Investment Office of the Presidency of the Republic of Turkey.
- Dynamic and Growing Economy: Turkey boasts one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, presenting a robust domestic market and increasing regional influence.
- Young and Skilled Workforce: A large and increasingly educated workforce provides a strong human capital base for businesses.
- Access to Regional Markets: Free trade agreements and customs unions provide preferential access to a vast consumer base across different continents. Further information can be found on the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Turkey website.
FAQs on Turkish Company Registration
Q1: How long does it typically take to register a company in Turkey? A1: With all documents prepared correctly and with professional legal assistance, the core registration process for a limited liability company or joint stock company can often be completed within 3 to 7 business days. However, the overall timeline can vary based on document apostille/notarization from your home country and any specific permits required.
Q2: Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Turkey? A2: Yes, foreign individuals and legal entities can own 100% of a limited liability company (Ltd. Şti.) or a joint stock company (A.Ş.) in Turkey. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership in most sectors.
Q3: Are there any specific tax benefits for foreign-owned companies in Turkey? A3: Turkey offers various tax advantages and incentives, including competitive corporate tax rates and potential exemptions or reductions, especially for investments in certain regions or sectors. Double taxation treaties also minimize tax burdens for international investors. Consulting with tax specialists is recommended.
Q4: What is the minimum capital requirement for a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Turkey in 2025? A4: As of 2025, the minimum capital requirement for a Limited Liability Company (Ltd. Şti.) in Turkey is TRY 50,000. This capital does not need to be fully paid upfront; it can be paid within two years from the date of registration, in up to four installments.
Q5: Do I need to be physically present in Turkey to register a company? A5: While it is possible to conduct much of the process remotely through a power of attorney granted to a trusted legal representative, certain steps, like opening a personal tax ID number for shareholders, might be faster if done in person. However, our firm can manage the entire process on your behalf, minimizing the need for your physical presence.
Q6: What ongoing compliance obligations do Turkish companies have? A6: After registration, companies must adhere to ongoing compliance requirements, including maintaining accurate accounting records, fulfilling tax obligations (corporate income tax, VAT, etc.), adhering to labor laws, and submitting regular filings to the Trade Registry and tax authorities.
Reach us for a Turkish Company Registration
Turkish company registration offers tremendous opportunities for international entrepreneurs seeking to expand into dynamic emerging markets. With proper guidance, strategic planning, and professional legal support, establishing your business in Turkey can be a straightforward and rewarding process.
The Turkish market continues to evolve, presenting new opportunities for innovative businesses across all sectors. From technology startups to manufacturing enterprises, Turkey welcomes foreign investment and provides the infrastructure necessary for business success.
Ready to begin your Turkish company registration journey? Contact Akkas & Associates Law Firm today for expert legal guidance and comprehensive support throughout the entire registration process. Our experienced team has been helping international clients successfully establish their Turkish businesses since 1992, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and strategic advantage in this dynamic market.
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