For foreign investors · Antalya, Turkey
Company formation and accounting in Turkey for foreign investors
Foreign investors in Turkey are treated equally with local investors and may set up their own company. The process still includes steps that are unfamiliar to many: document legalisation, tax registration, capital payment, bank account and the filing obligations that start on day one. HALDAN manages this from incorporation through to monthly accounting.
Halil Haldan, Certified Public Accountant (SMMM, Turkey) · Registration no.: 4820 · Antalya
Short answer
Can foreigners set up a company in Turkey?
Yes. Law No. 4875 on Foreign Direct Investment gives foreign investors the same treatment as local investors. Foreign individuals or companies may establish a limited company (Ltd. Şti.) or a joint stock company (A.Ş.) in Turkey. Since 1 January 2024 the minimum capital is TRY 50,000 for a limited company and TRY 250,000 for a joint stock company. Tax registration and obligations such as e-ledgers start with incorporation.
Guides and services for foreigners in Turkey
- 01Company formationLimited or joint stock company, documents, apostille, trade registry and tax registration, step by step.Read the guide
- 02Setup costsWhat a company setup in Turkey costs: capital, competition authority fee, registry, notary, translation.Read the guide
- 03Taxes for company owners25% corporate tax, 10% domestic minimum tax, 15% dividend withholding and tax treaties.Read the guide
- 04Rental income taxOwn property in Turkey but live abroad? Exemption, filing and payment rules for 2026.Read the guide
- 05Moving to TurkeyNew residents from 2026: 20-year income tax exemption on foreign income (Article 20/D).Read the guide
- 06About Halil HaldanCertified public accountant (SMMM) in Antalya, member of the Antalya Chamber, registration no. 4820.Read the guide
Minimum share capital (Presidential Decree No. 7887, from 1 January 2024)
| Company type | Minimum capital |
|---|---|
| Limited company (Ltd. Şti.) | TRY 50,000 |
| Joint stock company (A.Ş.) | TRY 250,000 |
| Non-public joint stock company in the registered capital system (initial capital) | TRY 500,000 |
Existing companies below these amounts are deemed dissolved unless they increase their capital by 31 December 2026 (Turkish Commercial Code, Provisional Article 15). In joint stock companies at least one quarter of the cash capital is paid before registration.
How we work
- 01Initial callWe listen to your investment plan, shareholder structure and intended activity.
- 02StructuringWe set out the company type, capital and document list in writing.
- 03IncorporationWe coordinate documents, trade registry, tax office and bank steps.
- 04Ongoing serviceAfter incorporation we handle bookkeeping, tax returns and payroll.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner set up a company in Turkey alone?
Yes. Both limited and joint stock companies can be formed with a single shareholder. The foreign individual needs a certified translation of their identity document and a Turkish tax identification number.
Do I need a residence permit to own a company in Turkey?
As a rule, being a shareholder does not require a residence permit. Working in the company or living in Turkey is subject to separate work and residence permits, which must be assessed separately.
Should I choose a limited or a joint stock company?
For small and medium-sized activities, a limited company offers lower capital and a simpler structure. If you need easier share transfers, plan to bring in investors or want a more corporate structure, a joint stock company may suit better. The choice should follow your business plan.
How long does company formation take?
It mainly depends on how long the legalisation and translation of your foreign documents take. Once the documents are ready, registration and tax steps can be completed quickly; we share a concrete timeline after reviewing your documents.
Official sources (in Turkish)
- 014875 sayılı Doğrudan Yabancı Yatırımlar KanunuMevzuat Bilgi Sistemi · Son kontrol: 27 Eylül 2026
- 02Anonim ve Limited Şirketlerde Asgari Sermaye Tutarları (7887 sayılı CBK, RG sayı 32380)T.C. Ticaret Bakanlığı İç Ticaret Genel Müdürlüğü · Son kontrol: 27 Eylül 2026
- 03TTK Geçici 15. madde (7511 sayılı Kanun, RG 29.05.2024) — TOBB'un 14.08.2026 tarihli ve 11694 sayılı yazısı üzerine yapılan duyuru (madde metni dahil)Denizli Ticaret Odası / TOBB · Son kontrol: 27 Eylül 2026
- 04Establishing a BusinessT.C. Cumhurbaşkanlığı Yatırım Ofisi · Son kontrol: 27 Eylül 2026
This page is based on our Turkish content, which is checked against official Turkish sources. If there is any difference, the Turkish legislation prevails. General information only. Laws and practice change; get professional advice on your specific situation before acting.
Initial consultation
Planning a company or investment in Turkey?
Share your plan and shareholder structure. We will outline the company type, capital, documents and timeline that fit your case. Consultations in Turkish and English.
+90 505 480 3751 · smmmhalilhaldan@gmail.com