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SERVICES
Company Formation in Turkey
We provide fast and legal company formation services for domestic and international investors looking to start a business in Turkey. Whether you’re a limited liability company, a joint stock company, a branch, or a liaison office, we handle all processes on your behalf.
Services:
- Establishing limited and joint-stock companies
- Opening foreign investment companies
- Share transfer and capital increase transactions
- Trade registry, notary, and banking processes
- Address and title changes
Service Processes
AAA aims to provide the best service by combining traditional accounting rigor with modern technology.
Turkey has rapidly evolved into a powerhouse for international business, serving as a critical hub that connects the industrial prowess of Europe with the emerging markets of Asia. Turkey offers a young, tech-savvy, and highly efficient workforce, as well as a liberal investment climate that treats foreign entrepreneurs exactly like local citizens.
However, entering a new market always brings a mix of excitement and anxiety about bureaucracy. Whether you are looking to manufacture goods or export services, establishing a presence is necessary to monitor the market and navigate local legal challenges and taxes. 3A SMMM is ready to be your strategic partner with its expert team.
Choosing the Right Legal Entity: Setting Up a Business in Turkey
When establishing a business in Turkey, the first decision you will face is structural. For most foreign investors, the choice narrows down to two primary corporate structures: limited liability company (LLC) and joint-stock company.
Establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Turkey
The LLC is the most popular business structure for small to medium-sized enterprises entering the Turkish market. Known as “Limited Company (Limited Şirket)” in Turkey, LLCs are favored for their flexibility. You can incorporate an LLC with a single shareholder, who can be an individual or a foreign corporate entity. The entry barrier for LLCs in Turkey is relatively low, requiring only a small amount of capital. This capital protects your personal assets from corporate debts, making it a safe vehicle for new ventures. Additionally, Turkish LLCs have a straightforward management structure that often requires just one director, who does not need to be a Turkish resident.
Establishing a Joint-Stock Company (JSC) in Turkey
A joint-stock company (Anonim Şirket) is the best option for those planning large-scale capital investments, public offerings, or complex structures with many shareholders. While an LLC in Turkey is personal and close-knit, a JSC in Turkey is perfectly designed for institutional management. In a JSC, governance is clearly divided between the Board of Directors and the General Assembly of shareholders. This structure is often mandatory for companies operating in regulated sectors, such as banking and energy. It is also preferred by global headquarters that want a more formal corporate governance style for their Turkish subsidiary.
Alternative Structures: Establishing a Branch or Liaison Office in Turkey
When forming a company in Turkey, remember that incorporating a new company isn’t the only way to enter the market. Depending on your business goals, you may prefer a structure that remains legally tied to your parent company abroad. There are multiple other options you may consider.
- Branch Office – A branch office in Turkey is not a separate entity; it is an extension of the parent company. It has its own capital and can engage in commercial activities, such as issuing invoices and generating profit. However, if you have a branch office in Turkey, the parent company abroad is fully liable for the branch’s debts. This structure is often chosen by companies that want to operate in Turkey while maintaining a unified global brand and legal identity.
- Liaison Office – If your goal is strictly noncommercial, establishing a liaison office in Turkey is ideal. A liaison office is prohibited from issuing invoices or generating revenue. This entity’s sole purpose is to conduct market research, oversee local suppliers, and promote the parent company’s brand. This is a cost-effective way to test the waters before committing to a full commercial operation.
Step-by-Step Process of Company Registration in Turkey
Once you have selected your entity, the registration process moves quickly. Turkey has centralized its commercial registry into a digital, highly advanced system called MERSIS, which has streamlined a formerly paper-heavy process.
- Document preparation: First, you will need notarized and translated copies of passports for individual shareholders or apostilled corporate documents for foreign parent companies.
- MERSIS entry: The second step is to draft the Articles of Association and enter them into the MERSIS system.
- Tax ID: The entity obtains a potential tax identification number from the tax office.
- Competition Authority Fee: A small portion of your capital (0.04%) is paid to the Competition Authority as a mandatory fee.
- Trade registry: The last step is for the founders to sign the Articles of Association at the Trade Registry Office, officially registering the company.
After registering the company, visit a notary to issue a signature circular. This document proves who has the authority to sign on behalf of the company.
Company Formation Cost in Turkey and Timeline
Turkey has a significant advantage when it comes to speed. If your documents are ready, you can register a standard company in as little as five to seven business days.
The cost of registering a company in Turkey is generally more affordable than in the EU. You will mostly need to budget for notary fees, sworn translations, trade registry fees, and the capital deposit. 3A SMMM will support you throughout the process to ensure a smooth and straightforward experience.
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Accounting and Financial Reporting Services
AAA CPA Services meticulously manages all of your company's accounting processes.
Tax Consulting and Compliance Services
AAA CPA Services prepares your VAT, withholding tax, provisional tax, corporate tax and all other returns accurately, on time and in compliance with the legislation.
Payroll and Human Resources Services
AAA CPA Services makes complete salary calculations, social security and tax deductions, and submits your legal notifications on time.
Company Establishment and Restructuring Services
We provide fast and legal company establishment services for local and foreign investors who want to start a business in Turkey.
International Tax and Double Taxation Consultancy
AAA CPA Services provides international tax consulting to multinational corporations to optimize their tax liabilities.
Technology and Automation Supported Financial Solutions
We manage your accounting processes faster and more accurately with our technology-focused solutions.
Critical Steps: How to Open a Bank Account in Turkey for Foreigners
Although registering a company in Turkey is quick and simple, opening a bank account for foreigners often requires more paperwork. Turkish banks are strictly regulated and must comply with global anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) rules.
Banks in Turkey will require your company’s tax plate, registry gazette, and signature circular. They may also ask for proof of address for foreign shareholders and detailed explanations of the intended business activity.
It is highly advisable to work with a consultant who has existing relationships with branch managers, as going to a random branch often results in rejection or excessive delays.
Company Formation for Foreigners in Turkey FAQS
Can a 100% foreign-owned company be established in Turkey?
Yes, foreign investors have the same legal rights as Turkish citizens. They can own 100 percent of a company without a local partner.
How long does it take to register a company?
The official registration process typically takes between five and seven business days if all documents are prepared correctly.
What is the minimum capital for an LLC in Turkey?
The minimum capital requirement for establishing a limited liability company (LLC) in Turkey is currently 50,000 TL.
Do I need to be physically present in Turkey to start a company?
No, you can appoint a local lawyer or accountant as your Power of Attorney to handle the entire registration process on your behalf.
What is the difference between a Branch and a Liaison Office?
A branch office can engage in commercial activities and generate revenue, whereas a liaison office is solely for market representation and cannot generate revenue.