Step-by-Step Company Formation in Türkiye in 2026

Türkiye continues to strengthen its position as a strategic investment hub bridging Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. With a liberal foreign investment regime, competitive costs, and a dynamic domestic market, company formation in Türkiye remains an attractive option for international entrepreneurs and corporations in 2026.

As Akkas CPA & Turkish Accounting Firm, a full-service company formation and corporate governance firm based in Istanbul and serving international clients since 2017, we provide this step-by-step guide to help investors clearly understand the legal, procedural, and strategic aspects of establishing a company in Türkiye.

Table of Contents

1. Legal Framework for Company Formation in Türkiye

Company formation in Türkiye is governed primarily by the Turkish Commercial Code (TCC), the Foreign Direct Investment Law, and secondary regulations issued by trade registries and ministries. Türkiye applies the principle of equal treatment, meaning foreign investors enjoy the same rights and obligations as Turkish nationals.

There are no minimum local shareholder requirements, and most sectors are open to 100% foreign ownership, subject to limited sector-specific regulations.

For a broader overview of the process and legal environment, see our detailed guide on company formation in Türkiye.

2. Choosing the Appropriate Company Type

Selecting the right legal structure is a critical first step and affects taxation, liability, governance, and future scalability.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

The Limited Liability Company (Limited Şirket) is the most common structure for small and medium-sized enterprises. It requires:

• Minimum one shareholder (individual or legal entity)
• Minimum capital of TRY 50,000
• Limited liability up to subscribed capital

For detailed procedures and requirements, please refer to our limited liability company formation page.

Joint-Stock Company (JSC)

The Joint-Stock Company (Anonim Şirket) is preferred for larger investments, regulated industries, and businesses planning future investment rounds or public offerings. Key features include:

• Minimum capital of TRY 250,000
• Flexible share transferability
• Strong corporate governance framework

More details are available on our joint-stock company formation guide.

3. Determining Shareholding and Capital Structure

Once the company type is selected, shareholders must define:

• Shareholding percentages
• Capital contributions (cash or in-kind)
• Voting and dividend rights

Foreign shareholders may freely repatriate profits, dividends, and liquidation proceeds, subject to tax compliance.

At this stage, it is highly advisable to draft tailored shareholder agreements to regulate internal relations, exit mechanisms, deadlock resolution, and minority protections—especially in multi-shareholder or joint venture structures.

4. Preparation of Company Formation Documents

The following documents must be prepared and notarized (and apostilled, if issued abroad):

• Articles of Association (AoA)
• Passport copies of shareholders and directors
• Signature declarations
• Power of attorney (if formation is handled remotely)
• Capital commitment statements

All documents must comply strictly with Turkish Commercial Code requirements and Trade Registry standards to avoid delays.

5. Trade Registry Registration and Legal Incorporation

Company formation becomes legally effective upon registration with the relevant Trade Registry Office. This stage includes:

• Online registration through the Central Registration System (MERSIS)
• Submission of notarized documents
• Issuance of Trade Registry Gazette announcement

Once registered, the company acquires legal personality and may commence business activities.

6. Tax Registration and Statutory Books

Following incorporation, the company must complete tax and accounting registrations:

• Tax number issuance
• VAT registration
• Certification of statutory books (journal, ledger, inventory book)

Turkish companies are subject to corporate income tax, VAT, withholding tax, and social security contributions, depending on activity.

7. Opening a Corporate Bank Account

A Turkish corporate bank account is mandatory for capital injection and daily operations. Banks typically require:

• Trade Registry documents
• Tax certificate
• Authorized signatory details
• Physical presence of directors or power of attorney

Compliance checks under Turkish and international AML regulations are increasingly strict in 2026, making professional guidance essential.

8. Corporate Governance and Compliance Obligations

Proper corporate governance is essential to maintain legal compliance and investor confidence. Ongoing obligations include:

• Annual general assembly meetings
• Board resolutions
• Financial reporting
• Appointment of auditors (where applicable)

Failure to comply may result in administrative fines, invalid resolutions, or director liability.

9. Employment, Work Permits, and Operational Setup

Foreign shareholders and directors actively involved in management generally require a work permit. The company must also:

• Register employees with the Social Security Institution
• Comply with labor law requirements
• Implement workplace policies and contracts

Early legal planning helps prevent compliance issues that could disrupt operations.

10. Exit Strategies: Liquidation, Restructuring, and Disputes

A sound incorporation strategy also considers exit scenarios. Businesses may later require:

• Voluntary or compulsory company liquidation
• Share transfers or mergers
• Legal dispute resolution and company litigation support

Planning for these possibilities from the outset significantly reduces legal and financial risks.

Summary Table: Incorporation Checklist 2026

A Structured and Secure Path to Company Formation in Türkiye

Step-by-step company formation in Türkiye is a streamlined but highly regulated process. While the system is investor-friendly, each stage—from company type selection to governance and compliance—requires precise legal execution.

With over three years of experience, Akkas CPA & Turkish Accounting Firm provides end-to-end company formation, governance, and corporate advisory services tailored to international investors operating in Türkiye.

If you are considering establishing a company in Türkiye or require strategic legal support throughout the formation and governance process, we invite you to contact Akkas CPA & Turkish Accounting Firm. Our multilingual team in Istanbul is ready to provide comprehensive, practical, and reliable legal solutions for your business investments in Türkiye.

Contact us for Company Formation in Türkiye

Establishing a company in Türkiye opens doors to tremendous business opportunities in one of the world’s most strategically positioned and economically vibrant markets. With proper planning, expert guidance, and comprehensive legal support, your company formation process can proceed smoothly and efficiently.

Contact Akkas CPA & Turkish Accounting Firm today to discuss your company formation needs in Türkiye. Our experienced legal professionals provide personalized consultations in multiple languages, helping you navigate every aspect of the formation process with confidence.

Whether you are establishing a limited liability company, joint-stock company, or exploring other business structures, our team delivers the expertise and commitment necessary to transform your business vision into reality. Reach out to our Istanbul office to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward successful business establishment in Türkiye.