Thinking About Starting a Business in Turkey?
Turkey offers access to a large domestic market, strategic international trade routes, and opportunities across multiple industries. We help you assess the right structure, navigate regulatory requirements, and establish your business with confidence.
- Business structure and foreign ownership guidance
- Banking, tax, and regulatory support
- Strategic planning for long-term business growth
Why Businesses Are Choosing Turkey
1. Strategic Access to International Markets
Turkey sits at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, giving businesses access to multiple regional markets from a single location. Companies operating in Turkey benefit from strong transport infrastructure, major international ports, and extensive trade connections. Its customs arrangements with the EU also make it an attractive base for businesses involved in manufacturing, logistics, distribution, and international trade.
2. An Accessible Environment for Foreign Investors
Turkey welcomes foreign investment and generally allows international entrepreneurs to own businesses with the same rights as local investors. Company formation is relatively straightforward, and a range of sectors remain open to overseas ownership. Combined with competitive operating costs and a large talent pool, Turkey continues to attract businesses seeking growth opportunities outside higher-cost European jurisdictions.
3. A Market Built for Long-Term Opportunity
With a population of more than 85 million people and a growing consumer economy, Turkey offers significant long-term potential. Businesses can benefit from strong domestic demand, a young workforce, and ongoing investment across industries including technology, manufacturing, tourism, renewable energy, and professional services. For many international companies, Turkey provides both immediate market access and a platform for future regional expansion.
Things to Know Before Starting a Business in Turkey
A successful business setup starts with understanding where to operate, how your industry fits the market, and how Turkey supports regional growth opportunities.
Is Turkey the Right Move for You?
A practical framework to assess whether Turkey aligns with your business objectives, industry requirements, and long-term growth plans.
Choosing the Right Business Structure in Turkey
LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
(LTD. ŞTİ.)
50,000 TRY
Minimum Share Capital
- Suitable for trading, consulting, and service businesses
- Can be established with a single shareholder
- Commonly used by foreign entrepreneurs
- Flexible management structure
- Faster setup process
JOINT STOCK COMPANY
(A.Ş.)
250,000 TRY
Minimum Share Capital
- Suitable for larger or expanding businesses
- Greater flexibility for investors and shareholders
- Strong framework for future investment
- Often chosen for long-term scaling plans
- Suitable for more complex ownership structures
What Our Turkey Business Startup Service Includes
Reviewing your objectives and advising on the most suitable business structure for your activities and growth plans.
Assistance with establishing your Turkish company and completing the required registration process.
Guidance on organising shareholder, director, and corporate documentation required for incorporation.
Support in preparing for corporate bank account opening and operational setup requirements.
Helping you understand key registration, reporting, and ongoing compliance obligations.
Ongoing guidance to support business development, expansion planning, and long-term objectives.
TURKEY BUSINESS LANDSCAPE
Access to customers across Turkey's large domestic economy and established regional trade networks.
Most sectors permit 100% foreign ownership through structures such as Ltd. Şti. and A.Ş.
Strategic location connecting Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and surrounding export markets.
Limited Liability Company (Ltd. Şti.) and Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.) remain the most frequently used structures by foreign investors.
Manufacturing, logistics, exports, technology, consulting, tourism, and international trade operations.
Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, and Antalya each offer different commercial advantages depending on your sector.
Corporate banking processes may require enhanced due diligence, beneficial ownership verification, and supporting documentation.
Tax registration, bookkeeping requirements, social security registrations, and ongoing compliance obligations should be planned early.
Incorporation alone does not create demand. Market validation, customer acquisition, and operational planning remain essential.
Future investment, shareholder changes, expansion plans, and exit strategies should be considered when selecting the initial structure.
How Lanop Works: A Structured 3-Phase Process
Phase 1 Includes
- 1Discuss your commercial objectives and reasons for entering the Turkish market
- 2Review whether Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, Antalya, or another location best supports your plans
- 3Assess ownership preferences, business activities, and expansion goals
- 4Compare available company structures and practical setup routes
- 5Outline the requirements, timeline, and key considerations before proceeding
YOU RECEIVE:
A clear market-entry strategy, recommended business structure, and a practical roadmap for establishing your presence in Turkey.
Phase 2 Includes
- 1Coordinate company formation and registration requirements
- 2Prepare and review incorporation documentation
- 3Assist with tax registration and operational setup requirements
- 4Support corporate banking preparation and related documentation
- 5Help establish the foundations needed to begin trading
YOU RECEIVE:
A legally established Turkish company with the registrations, documentation, and operational framework needed to start doing business.
Phase 3 Includes
- 1Provide guidance as your business grows and operational needs evolve
- 2Discuss expansion opportunities within Turkey and neighbouring markets
- 3Help navigate ongoing compliance and administrative requirements
- 4Support future structural or strategic decisions as circumstances change
- 5Remain available when new opportunities or challenges arise
YOU RECEIVE:
A business positioned for sustainable growth in Turkey, backed by ongoing access to experienced strategic guidance when it matters most.
WHY FOUNDERS WORK WITH LANOP ?
Turkey offers significant opportunities for international businesses, but success starts with the right setup. Lanop helps founders navigate company formation, compliance, banking, and tax requirements with confidence, ensuring a smooth entry into the Turkish market.
LANOP'S Role: Advise
Value Provided: Guidance on choosing between Ltd. Şti. and A.Ş. based on your objectives.
LANOP'S Role: Clarify
Value Provided: Understanding corporate tax, KDV registration, and compliance obligations.
LANOP'S Role: Assess
Value Provided: Evaluating Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and other commercial hubs.
LANOP'S Role: Prepare
Value Provided: Supporting documentation and account opening preparation.
LANOP'S Role: Align
Value Provided: Considering future expansion, investment, and operational needs.
FAQs:
Is Turkey a good place to start a business?
Turkey offers access to a large domestic market, a strategic location between Europe and Asia, and relatively competitive operating costs. It can be particularly attractive for businesses involved in trade, manufacturing, logistics, technology, and professional services. Whether Turkey is the right choice depends on your industry, target customers, tax considerations, and long-term growth objectives. A proper assessment before incorporation is essential.
Which city do most businesses choose?
Istanbul remains the most popular location for international businesses due to its commercial infrastructure, talent pool, and international connections. Ankara is often preferred for government-related sectors, while Izmir, Bursa, and Antalya attract businesses in manufacturing, tourism, and export industries. The best location depends on your sector, customer base, and operational requirements rather than popularity alone.
How long does it take to register a company in Turkey?
A standard Turkish company can often be established within a few days once all required documents are prepared. The overall timeline depends on shareholder arrangements, document certification, tax registration, and banking procedures. Foreign investors should allow additional time for document translation, notarisation, and compliance requirements before the company becomes fully operational.
What is the most common company structure in Turkey?
The Limited Liability Company (Ltd. Şti.) is the most commonly used structure for foreign investors. It offers limited liability protection and a relatively straightforward setup process. Larger businesses or companies planning future investment rounds may choose a Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.). The right structure depends on ownership, funding plans, and future business objectives.
Can I run a Turkish company remotely?
Yes, many foreign investors manage Turkish companies while living abroad. However, local compliance obligations, banking requirements, and certain administrative processes may require support within Turkey. Depending on your business activities, appointing local representatives, accountants, or advisors can help ensure smooth operations and ongoing regulatory compliance.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Turkish company?
Yes. Turkey generally allows foreign investors to own 100% of a company without requiring a local shareholder. Foreign-owned businesses receive many of the same rights and protections as domestic companies. Certain regulated industries may have additional requirements, but most sectors are open to full foreign ownership and investment.
Do I need to live in Turkey to own a company?
No. Foreign nationals can establish and own Turkish companies without becoming Turkish residents. However, residency may be beneficial if you plan to manage operations locally or spend significant time in the country. Ownership and residency are separate matters, and many international entrepreneurs successfully operate Turkish companies from abroad.
Can my UK company own a Turkish company?
Yes. A UK limited company can generally own shares in a Turkish company, including full ownership in many cases. This structure is often used by businesses expanding into new markets while maintaining an existing corporate presence in the UK. Professional advice is recommended to address tax, reporting, and cross-border compliance considerations.
Can I add business partners after incorporation?
Yes. Turkish companies can generally admit new shareholders after formation, subject to corporate procedures and shareholder agreements. Bringing in investors or business partners may require amendments to company records and registrations. Planning ownership arrangements early can help avoid future disputes and simplify business growth.
Is my personal liability limited?
In most cases, yes. Shareholders of a limited liability company are generally protected from personal responsibility for company debts beyond their capital contribution. However, directors and managers may still have obligations under Turkish law. Maintaining proper compliance and corporate governance is important to preserve these liability protections.
What taxes does a Turkish company pay?
Turkish companies are generally subject to corporate taxation, VAT obligations, payroll taxes, and social security contributions where applicable. The exact tax burden depends on the nature of the business, industry, and revenue sources. Tax rules can change over time, making ongoing professional advice important for maintaining compliance and identifying available incentives.
Do I need a Turkish accountant?
Yes. Most businesses operating in Turkey require local accounting support to manage bookkeeping, tax filings, payroll obligations, and regulatory reporting. Turkish accounting requirements can be detailed, and maintaining accurate records is essential. Working with experienced local professionals helps reduce compliance risks and administrative burdens.
Do I need a business bank account in Turkey?
A local business bank account is generally required for company operations, tax payments, payroll, and commercial transactions. Opening an account may involve shareholder verification, corporate documentation, and compliance checks. Banking requirements vary between institutions, so preparing documentation in advance can help streamline the process.
Does Turkey have tax treaties with the UK?
Yes. Turkey and the United Kingdom have a double taxation agreement designed to reduce the risk of the same income being taxed twice. The treaty helps clarify taxing rights between both countries and may provide relief in certain situations. Proper structuring remains important to ensure treaty benefits are applied correctly.
What ongoing compliance requirements should I expect?
Turkish companies must maintain accounting records, submit tax filings, update corporate information when required, and comply with employment and regulatory obligations. Depending on the business sector, additional licences or permits may also apply. Regular compliance reviews help businesses avoid penalties and maintain smooth operations as they grow.
