Company Formation
"What are the steps to establish a company in Turkey?"
Quick Answer
Company formation in Turkey typically requires selecting the company type (most commonly Ltd. or A.Ş.), preparing the articles of association and corporate resolutions, and completing Trade Registry registration, after which the company gains legal personality. Post-registration steps commonly include tax office procedures, signature/corporate records, and—where applicable—capital payment mechanics under the relevant rules.
Key Aspects Under Turkish Law
Company formation under Turkish law primarily depends on the chosen vehicle (Ltd. or A.Ş. are most common) and requires compliant articles of association, corporate approvals, and Trade Registry registration. The incorporation file typically also determines who can represent the company, how signatures will be used, and how capital commitments will be handled under the applicable rules.
Key Points to Remember
- Turkish Commercial Code No. 6102 provides the primary legal framework
- Trade Registry registration is the step that generally establishes the company’s legal personality and makes the incorporation publicly effective
- If shareholders/directors are foreign, documentation formalities (notarization/apostille/translation) and signatory setup often drive the critical path
- Choosing between Ltd., A.Ş., branch, or liaison office should be driven by governance, liability, capital structure, and operational needs
- Proper documentation and corporate formalities are essential
Practical Considerations for Businesses
When dealing with company formation in Turkey, businesses should consider engaging qualified legal counsel familiar with both Turkish law and international business practices. This ensures compliance with local requirements while meeting global standards.
In practice, incorporation usually hinges on documentation quality and signatory readiness: a clear company structure, verified address details, properly drafted articles, and correct signatory/representation setup. Common delays arise from incomplete foreign documents (apostille/consular legalization, sworn translations), unclear shareholder/manager information, or misaligned signature rules—so aligning these items before filing helps prevent Trade Registry rework.
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