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Setting Up a Company in Türkiye as a Foreigner

Savun Law & Consultancy · Updated 29 October 2026

Setting Up a Company in Türkiye as a Foreigner

Foreign investors may set up companies and carry on business in Türkiye under certain conditions. Setting up a company is also linked to work permit and citizenship processes. This article explains company formation by foreigners for information purposes.

🏢 General Framework

Türkiye largely grants direct foreign investment the same conditions as domestic investors. Foreign individuals or legal entities can set up a company in the proper manner. Where the conditions are met, setting up a company may also affect the work permit and citizenship by investment processes. The rules need to be followed carefully.

Note: When foreigners set up a company, it is important to plan work permit and tax obligations from the outset.

📋 The Formation Process

Choosing the company type, preparing the articles of association, trade registry formalities and tax registration are the main stages. For foreign partners and managers, additional documents and certification formalities may come into play. The process may vary depending on the capital and the field of activity. It matters that the formalities are carried out properly.

⚖️ Points to Note

Depending on the activity, a foreigner who sets up a company may need to obtain a work permit. Tax and social security obligations also need to be planned from the outset. An incomplete or faulty formation can lead to loss of rights later. Each investment is assessed under its own circumstances.

📌 Related Topics

The topic is connected with the work permit and citizenship by investment.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can a foreigner set up a company in Türkiye?

Yes; foreign individuals or legal entities can set up a company in the proper manner.

Does setting up a company affect citizenship?

Where the conditions are met, it may affect the citizenship by investment process.

Does a company owner need a work permit?

Depending on the activity, a work permit may be required.

For detailed information and legal support, you can contact Savun Law & Consultancy.

The information in this article is provided for general information purposes and may change in line with current legislation. Every case is unique; nothing here is a promise of any outcome. Savun Law & Consultancy cannot be held responsible for any use of this information.

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This page is an English adaptation of our Turkish article Yabancıların Türkiye'de Şirket Kurması.

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