Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Company in Turkey in 2025

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step required to legally establish and operate a company in Turkey. Whether you are a first-time investor or an experienced entrepreneur, this roadmap will help you navigate the process efficiently.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

Your first decision is selecting the right legal entity. Review the available types of companies in Turkey and choose the one that best aligns with your business model, capital, and growth plans. For most foreign investors, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the recommended starting point.

Step 2: Reserve Your Company Name

Check the availability of your desired company name through the Central Registry System (MERSİS). The name must be unique and comply with Turkish naming regulations. You can check availability and submit your application online.

Step 3: Prepare the Articles of Association

Draft your Articles of Association with the help of a legal professional. This document defines the company's purpose, share structure, management, and decision-making processes. Good legal advice for company setup at this stage sets the foundation for smooth future operations.

Step 4: Notarization and Trade Registry

Sign the Articles of Association before a Turkish notary. Then register your company with the local Trade Registry Office (Ticaret Sicili Müdürlüğü). Registration typically takes 1–3 business days. You will receive your company registration certificate.

Step 5: Tax Registration

Register your company with the local tax office to obtain a tax identification number (Vergi Kimlik Numarası). This is required for VAT (KDV) in Turkey registration and all tax filings. Engage a

Step 6: Social Security Registration

Register the company and all employees with the Social Security Institution (SGK). This is mandatory from the moment you hire your first employee. Penalties for late registration are significant.

Step 7: Open a Business Bank Account

Open a Turkish bank account in the company's name. Most banks require company registration documents, tax certificates, and shareholder ID documents. For LLCs, the minimum capital (10,000 TRY) must be deposited before registration.

Step 8: Protect Your Brand

Apply for trademark registration in Turkey through Türkpatent as soon as your company is registered. Early registration prevents others from copying your brand and creates a stronger IP portfolio for future investors.

Step 9: Obtain Required Permits and Licenses

Depending on your business sector, you may need additional permits. If you plan to hire foreign staff, apply for work permit for foreigners in parallel with your business setup. For products, don't forget to register

Step 10: Begin Operations

With all registrations complete, you can begin commercial operations. Review your annual budget for ongoing compliance costs and consider how to reducing tax costs through available government incentive programs.

Conclusion

Following these 10 steps systematically will ensure a smooth company setup experience in Turkey. For sector-specific guidance or if you are a foreign national, read our detailed guide on setting up a company as a foreigner.