How to Register Your Business in Turkey

Turkey is an attractive hub for foreign investors thanks to its open economy, customs union, geostrategic location and young workforce. Company registration is relatively fast: with preparations in place you can have an active company within 7–14 business days.

1. Choose the Right Company Type

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

• The most common form — ideal for foreign founders
• Single shareholder is enough (individual or legal entity)
• Minimum capital: 50,000 TRY
• Shareholders liable only up to their capital share

Joint Stock Company (JSC)

• For IPOs and large-scale projects
• Minimum capital: 250,000 TRY
• Board of directors required
• Share transfers are easier

Branch or Liaison Office

• Turkey representation of a foreign parent
• A liaison office cannot trade directly
• A branch can trade and is tied to the parent

2. Required Documents

1. Passport translation and apostille (for foreign founders)
2. Turkish tax ID number
3. Temporary account at a Turkish bank (for capital)
4. Articles of association (per company type)
5. Address proof (lease or title deed)
6. Signature declaration / circular

3. Online Registration via MERSIS

All registration begins on the Central Registry System (MERSIS). The articles of association are approved and transmitted to the trade registry. With fewer notarial steps required, the process is quicker.

4. Trade Registry and Official Gazette

Upon registration, the company is announced in the Trade Registry Gazette. This is when the company is legally born.

5. Tax & Social Security Openings

Tax office inspection, e-invoice/e-ledger transition and social security employer registration are completed. Your accountant manages this process.

6. Bank Account, e-Signature & Capital Lock-up

A commercial bank account is opened. Capital must be paid in within 24 months. e-signature is mandatory for invoicing and official communication.

7. Sector-Specific Permits

Food, pharma, education, healthcare, transport, tourism require extra operational licenses. General trade and consultancy do not.

Costs (2026 average)

• Notary and fees: 5,000-10,000 TRY
• MERSIS and registry fees: 3,000-5,000 TRY
• Legal/accountant fees: 15,000-30,000 TRY
• Total: ~25,000-50,000 TRY (~$700-1,500)

Investment Incentives

The regional incentive system covers 6 regions. In underdeveloped zones, VAT/customs exemption, tax reduction, social security support, interest support and land allocation are provided.

Find details on our Business Investment page. Work with our team that manages the process A-to-Z on your behalf.