Starting a Business in Turkey: Company Types and What You Need to Know

Turkey is increasingly becoming a hub for entrepreneurs and international investors. With its strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, a growing economy, and investor-friendly policies, establishing a company in Turkey can be a smart move. However, before starting your business, it’s crucial to understand the different company types and the legal framework.

Why Start a Company in Turkey?

Turkey offers several advantages for entrepreneurs:

• Strategic Location: Turkey connects Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, making it ideal for trade.
• Growing Economy: With a diverse economy, Turkey provides opportunities in manufacturing, technology, tourism, and export.
• Favorable Incentives: The government provides tax incentives, export support, and investment incentives for startups and foreign investors.

Types of Companies in Turkey

When setting up a business in Turkey, you mainly have three types of companies to choose from:

1. Sole Proprietorship (Şahıs Şirketi)

• Overview: Owned and managed by a single individual.
• Advantages: Simple setup, minimal capital requirement, full control.
• Considerations: The owner is personally liable for all debts and obligations.

2. Limited Liability Company (Limited Şirket)

• Overview: Owned by one or more shareholders with limited liability.
• Advantages: Liability is limited to the capital invested, flexible management, suitable for SMEs.
• Capital Requirement: Minimum capital of 10,000 TRY.
• Considerations: Requires registration with the Turkish Trade Registry, and accounting obligations are stricter than a sole proprietorship.

3. Joint Stock Company (Anonim Şirket)

• Overview: Can be publicly or privately held, with shares traded or privately owned.
• Advantages: Limited liability, suitable for large-scale businesses, easier to raise capital.
• Capital Requirement: Minimum capital of 50,000 TRY.
• Considerations: More complex setup and higher regulatory requirements, including formal accounting and auditing.

Steps to Establish a Company in Turkey

1. Decide the Company Type: Choose the structure that suits your business goals.
2. Reserve a Company Name: Check the Trade Registry to ensure the name is unique.
3. Prepare the Articles of Association: Outline the company’s purpose, capital, and management.
4. Open a Bank Account and Deposit Capital: Required for Limited and Joint Stock Companies.
5. Register with the Trade Registry: Obtain your company registration certificate.
6. Tax Registration and Social Security: Register with the tax office and social security institutions.

Why a Local Address Matters

For all company types in Turkey, a registered office address is mandatory. Many startups and SMEs use virtual offices as a cost-effective solution, which provide an official business address, mail handling, and legal compliance without renting a physical office.

Final Thoughts

Starting a business in Turkey is a promising opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking growth and international expansion. By understanding the company types and legal requirements, you can make informed decisions and set your business up for success.

Adınız Soyadınız*

Adınız

Soyadınız

GSM İletişim numaranız*

Website URL*

E-Posta Adresiniz*

Mesajınız*

Şirketinizin Adı

Mevcut bir şirketiniz var ise adını yazabilirsiniz

Mali Müşavirinizin Adı Soyadı ve GSM Numarası

KVKK Onayı*

KVKK aydınlatma metnini okudum onaylıyorum

Lütfen Doğrulama Kodunu Giriniz.*

Gönder