bayraktar-logo
English-speaking lawyers100% foreign ownershipSet up remotely by power of attorney

100% foreign ownership, remote incorporation and end-to-end legal support

Bayraktar Attorneys sets up Turkish companies for foreign entrepreneurs, investors and international groups. We advise on the right structure, prepare every document, register the company and handle the tax and social security steps, all in English.

You do not need a Turkish partner, and in most cases you do not need to travel. We can complete the whole process for you under a power of attorney.

Key Takeaways

Planning to start a business in Turkey?

Talk to an English-speaking corporate lawyer today. The first consultation is free and there is no obligation.

How We Help Foreign Entrepreneurs

Starting a business in a country whose language and rules are new to you is rarely simple. Our corporate team works with foreign founders every day and manages the formation from the first decision to the day you can trade.

We take care of the whole process, so nothing is missed:

  • Choosing the right company type and share structure
  • Company name reservation on the MERSIS system
  • Drafting the articles of association and shareholder documents
  • Notarization, capital deposit and Trade Registry registration
  • Tax office and social security (SGK) registration
  • Company bank account, e-signature and e-notification address
  • Ongoing accounting, compliance and, where needed, work permits

Choosing the Right Company Type

The structure you choose affects capital, liability, how shares are transferred and how you are taxed. We help you pick the one that fits your plans.

Limited Liability Company (Limited Şirket)

The most popular choice for small and medium businesses. It can be formed with a single shareholder, and the shareholders are liable only up to the capital they commit. The minimum capital is currently 50,000 TRY. Share transfers are made before a notary and registered.

Joint Stock Company (Anonim Şirket)

Suited to larger operations, businesses that plan to raise investment, or activities such as banking and insurance. The minimum capital is currently 250,000 TRY. Shares can be transferred more freely, and the structure is favoured by investors. Certain sectors can only operate as a joint stock company.

Branch and Liaison Office

A foreign company can also enter Turkey through a branch, which trades under the parent, or a liaison (representative) office, which may carry out market research and coordination but not commercial activity. We advise which route suits your goals.

Requirements and Documents

The exact paperwork depends on whether the shareholders are individuals or companies, and whether they are in Turkey or abroad. In general you will need:

  • A Turkish tax number for each shareholder and director (we obtain this for you)
  • Passport copies, notarized and, if issued abroad, apostilled
  • The articles of association, prepared and filed on MERSIS
  • A registered address for the company in Turkey
  • The company capital and, for a joint stock company, any required blocked portion
  • A power of attorney if you would like us to complete the steps without you travelling

Taxes and Ongoing Obligations

A Turkish company is subject to corporate income tax, currently at a headline rate of around 25%, together with VAT on most goods and services. After formation the company must keep proper books, issue e-invoices where required, and file monthly and annual returns.

We set up your accounting from day one and keep you compliant, so you can focus on the business. If your activity qualifies, we also advise on VAT exemption and other incentives.

Work and Residence for Founders and Staff

A Turkish company can support a work permit for its foreign directors and employees, which in turn provides a basis for residence. We coordinate the company formation with your immigration plans, including work permits for employers and, where relevant, residence permits.

Our Process (Step by Step)

  1. Free Consultation and Structure Planning

    We learn your plans, recommend the right company type and share structure, and set out the costs and timeline.

  2. Name Reservation and Documents

    We reserve the company name on MERSIS and prepare the articles of association, powers of attorney and supporting papers.

  3. Notarization and Capital

    We arrange notarization and translations, obtain tax numbers, and handle the capital requirements for your chosen structure.

  4. Trade Registry Registration

    We register the company with the Trade Registry and complete the tax office and social security filings.

  5. Bank Account and Activation

    We open the company bank account, set up the e-signature and e-notification address, and hand over a ready-to-trade company.

Why Choose Bayraktar Attorneys

Foreigner-focused

We work daily with foreign founders and international groups, entirely in English.

End-to-end and remote

From structure to bank account, we can complete everything under a power of attorney.

Transparent pricing

A clear, fixed quote after your free consultation, with no hidden charges.

Beyond formation

Accounting, tax, contracts and work permits, all from one team.

Atty. Nevzat Oğulcan Bayraktar

Founding Attorney · Istanbul Bar Association. View profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

Free Consultation

Book Your Free 15-Minute Consultation Now! Speak Directly With Our Expert Lawyers to Find Clear Answers and Immediate Guidance.

Ready to start your company in Turkey?

Confidential, English-speaking corporate support from formation to trading.

This page provides general information about company formation in Turkey and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, please contact Bayraktar Attorneys for a consultation.