Turkey permits 100% foreign-owned companies, making it an ideal base for international businesses. With a young, skilled workforce, strategic location, and competitive costs, Istanbul has become a major hub for companies serving Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
Company Types
Limited Liability Company (Ltd. Şti.): Minimum 50,000 TL capital, 1-50 shareholders, most popular for SMEs. Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.): Minimum 250,000 TL, suitable for larger investments. Branch Office: No separate legal entity, parent company liability.
The formation process takes 3-7 business days and includes articles of association preparation, trade registry application, tax office registration, social security registration, and bank account opening.
Tax and Legal Considerations
Corporate tax rate is 25%. VAT ranges from 1-20%. Withholding tax on dividends: 15% (may be reduced by tax treaties). Free trade zones offer tax incentives for export-oriented businesses.
Foreign employees require work permits, obtainable through the company. A Turkish tax identification number is mandatory for all directors and shareholders.
Our Services
We provide end-to-end company formation including legal structure advisory, document preparation, registration with all relevant authorities, bank account opening assistance, and ongoing compliance support.
Post-formation services include annual compliance filings, employment contracts, commercial agreements, and dispute resolution.
+90 531 500 03 76 | WhatsApp | info@sadarethukuk.com
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for this?
While not always legally required, professional legal representation significantly reduces risks, prevents costly mistakes, and ensures full compliance with Turkish law.
How long does the process take?
Timelines vary depending on case complexity. Simple matters may take weeks, while complex cases can require months. We provide realistic time estimates during initial consultation.
What are the costs involved?
Costs depend on the specific service and case complexity. We provide transparent fee structures during the initial consultation with no hidden charges.
Can this be handled remotely from abroad?
Many legal processes in Turkey can be managed remotely using a notarized power of attorney. However, some steps may require physical presence. We advise on the optimal approach for each case.
What documents do I need?
Document requirements vary by case type. Generally, you'll need a valid passport, relevant certificates (apostilled and translated), and case-specific documents. We provide a complete checklist during consultation.