🇹🇷 HOW TO ESTABLISH A COMPANY IN TURKEY

A Step-by-Step Explanation in Simple English

🧩 Starting a Business in Turkey

Establishing a company is one of the most important ways to do business legally and in an organized manner in Turkey. The Republic of Turkey grants the right to establish a company not only to Turkish citizens but also to foreigners. Moreover, this process is now much easier and faster than it used to be.

In the past, starting a company meant running between different government offices with piles of paperwork. Today, nearly the entire process can be started and completed online, often in less than an hour. All steps are managed through a digital system called MERSİS (Central Registry System).

🏢 Common Types of Companies in Turkey

There are several company types available to choose from in Turkey. The most common are:

• Limited Liability Company (Ltd. Şti.)

• Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.)

• General and Limited Partnerships

• Cooperatives

📌 Requirements to Start a Company in Turkey

In order to legally establish a company in Turkey, certain requirements must be fulfilled. While some details may vary depending on the type of company, the core steps are generally the same:

🔹 1. Choose the Right Type of Company

The company type should match the nature of the business activity.

• For example, a Limited Company may be suitable for a small enterprise,

• A Joint Stock Company may be better for larger businesses or those seeking outside investors.

🔹 2. Decide on the Shareholders and Managers

• A company can be established by just one person.

• Shareholders can be individuals (real persons) or other legal entities (such as another company).

• The person(s) responsible for managing the company must be appointed as “authorized representatives.”

🔹 3. Get a Tax Number

• Turkish citizens use their national ID numbers.

• Foreign nationals must first visit a tax office and obtain a tax number.

🔹 4. Decide on the Capital Amount

• The minimum capital required is:

  • ₺10,000 for a limited liability company

  • ₺50,000 for a joint stock company

• This amount shows the size and credibility of your company.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Actions to Establish a Company

Below are the actions required to set up a company, explained clearly and in the correct order. By following these steps, anyone can legally become a company owner in a short time.

✅ 1. Register on the MERSİS System

• Go to: https://mersis.gtb.gov.tr

• Create a free user account

• Start creating your company’s Articles of Association (official company contract) on the system

✅ 2. Prepare and Approve the Articles of Association

• The MERSİS system will guide you step by step

• Enter the company name, address, business activity, shareholders, etc.

• Once completed, the document must be signed by all founders

• Then the signatures must be notarized or approved by the Trade Registry Office

✅ 3. Submit Signature Declarations for Company Managers

• Those who will sign on behalf of the company (managers, directors) must personally go to the trade registry and sign a form confirming their authorization

✅ 4. Make Capital & Competition Authority Payments

• A portion of the capital must be deposited in a bank account opened for the company

  • Example: At least 25% of the capital for a joint stock company must be deposited before registration

• A Competition Authority fee must also be paid

  • This is 0.04% of the total capital

  • It can be paid directly at the trade registry office

✅ 5. Apply to the Trade Registry Office

• Once all documents are ready, you apply to the Trade Registry Office

• If everything is complete, your company will be officially registered

• Your commercial books will also be approved and handed over to you

✅ 6. Post-Registration Steps

• Get your Tax Registration Certificate from the local tax office

• Register with the Social Security Institution (SGK)

  • If you will employ workers, declare your workplace

• Work with a printing house to prepare invoices, delivery notes, and other official forms

🎯 Final Thoughts

Starting a company in Turkey is now easier, faster, and more accessible than ever. Thanks to the government’s digital systems, all steps can be managed from a single platform. As long as your documents are ready, your company can be established in just a few hours.

Whether you are a Turkish citizen or a foreign entrepreneur, the process of company formation in Turkey is equal, transparent, and well-structured for everyone. This makes it easier to bring your business ideas to life and start operating legally. Contact us to discuss the details and let us help you!