For entrepreneurs seeking to establish a presence in Turkey, understanding the Company Registration in Turkey process is crucial. This guide answers frequently asked questions to simplify your business formation journey.
As of 2025, the registration process has been streamlined with digital systems, yet the legal and procedural steps remain essential. Whether you’re forming an LLC in Turkey or a Joint Stock Company, this FAQ will help you navigate the process confidently.
Company Registration in Turkey requires a set of legal and identification documents, depending on the company type and whether the founders are local or foreign. Standard documents include notarized passports, proof of address, articles of association, and power of attorney if using a consultant. Foreign nationals must also provide translated and apostilled documents. Requirements vary for LLC in Turkey and Joint Stock Company structures.
The time required for Company Registration in Turkey depends on document readiness and system efficiency. Thanks to digitalization via MERSIS, most companies can be registered within 5–7 business days.
According to 2025 updates by the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), the registration timeframe has improved due to streamlined notary and chamber coordination.
For both LLC in Turkey and Joint Stock setups, initial reservation, document approval, and trade registry filings occur sequentially.
Yes, under Turkish Commercial Law, foreigners are fully allowed to complete Company Registration in Turkey without needing a local shareholder.
The process is nearly identical, but foreign founders must provide additional documentation such as apostilled passports and address proof from their home country.
There are no nationality-based restrictions for owning 100% of an LLC in Turkey or Joint Stock Company.
Most delays happen due to incomplete documentation or bank account opening issues.
Using local consultants can reduce setup time and avoid common pitfalls.
There are multiple legal entity types available for Company Registration in Turkey, with the most common being the Limited Liability Company (LLC) and the Joint Stock Company (JSC).
According to the Turkish Commercial Code, LLCs are ideal for small-to-medium businesses, while JSCs suit larger investments and are required for stock exchange listings or issuing bonds.
Each structure has specific rules for minimum capital, governance, and shareholder responsibilities, directly impacting your business strategy in Turkey.
Foreign entrepreneurs typically choose an LLC in Turkey for flexibility and ease of management. It requires only one shareholder and has a low capital threshold of 10,000 TRY.
Joint Stock Company is suitable if you plan on scaling operations, attracting investors, or listing shares. It has stricter governance and a minimum capital of 50,000 TRY as of 2025 (per the Ministry of Trade).
It’s important to match your business goals with the appropriate legal structure for optimal regulatory and tax efficiency.
LLCs are the most popular choice for tech startups, consultancies, and trading firms.
JSCs are often used by manufacturing and financial service providers.
Company Registration in Turkey is fully integrated with MERSIS – the Central Registry System developed by the Turkish Ministry of Trade. It centralizes and digitizes all trade registry operations.
Since 2023, all new company incorporations must be filed through MERSIS. It simplifies business setup, tracks corporate changes, and provides verified documentation to government institutions.
Without a MERSIS ID, no legal entity can be registered or modified in Turkey. Company Registration in Turkey via MERSIS is mandatory for both local and foreign founders.
To initiate Company Registration in Turkey, your first step is to apply for a MERSIS number. If you’re a foreigner, this involves registering a Turkish tax ID first.
Then, using that ID, an application can be made through the MERSIS online portal. A draft of the articles of association is generated directly through the system.
Consulting a Turkish attorney or local advisor helps navigate the interface, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the language or legal terms.
Capital requirements for Company Registration in Turkey depend on the legal structure chosen. As of 2025, an LLC must have a minimum capital of 10,000 TRY, while a Joint Stock Company requires at least 50,000 TRY.
According to the Turkish Commercial Code, capital must be declared during registration but can be deposited gradually, especially for LLCs, within 24 months of incorporation.
These capital thresholds ensure companies maintain a minimum level of financial credibility while also supporting business activities.
For an LLC in Turkey, the law allows deferred capital contribution. You don’t need to deposit the entire capital upfront at the time of registration.
However, for a Joint Stock Company, at least 25% of the declared capital must be deposited before registration. The remaining amount must be paid within 24 months.
Using a Turkish bank account is mandatory for capital deposit, and the bank will issue a certificate confirming the amount received.
Yes, a valid local address is a legal requirement for Company Registration in Turkey. This address is officially recorded in the Trade Registry and used for tax, legal, and operational correspondence.
According to the 2025 updates from the Turkish Revenue Administration, this address must be in a commercial zone and verifiable by lease agreement or title deed.
Virtual office services are permitted, provided they are authorized for commercial use and properly documented in the registration file.
Yes, you can use a virtual office address for Company Registration in Turkey, especially for startups or service-based businesses without physical operations.
Ensure the provider offers a commercial lease agreement and is accepted by local tax offices and chambers of commerce.
This method is especially popular among foreign entrepreneurs establishing an LLC in Turkey without relocating immediately.
For more detailed information on legal procedures, tax obligations, and business structures, feel free to visit our Company Formation in Turkey page.
