Buying a shelf company—also known as a ready-made or pre-registered company—is an increasingly popular option for foreign investors seeking to establish a business presence in Turkey without going through the full incorporation process. These entities are already registered and dormant, allowing for faster transaction execution, banking, and licensing. However, acquiring a shelf company also comes with legal risks. That’s why working with a qualified Turkish Law Firm is essential to ensure due diligence, compliance, and seamless ownership transfer.
At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers guide foreign investors through the legal and operational process of acquiring shelf companies. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for corporate and commercial transactions, we ensure your investment is secure, compliant, and fit for purpose.
What Is a Shelf Company in Turkey?
A shelf company is a legal entity that has been incorporated and registered with the Turkish Trade Registry but has not conducted any business activity. These companies are formed in advance and “shelved” for future use by buyers who need an immediate legal presence in Turkey.
Why Buy a Shelf Company Instead of Forming a New One?
- Faster legal activation—no need to wait for incorporation process
- Immediate access to a Turkish company name and registration number
- Easier time-sensitive bidding or tender submissions
- Streamlined banking, licensing, or regulatory procedures
- Perception of maturity for older shelf companies
Our company setup team will compare shelf company and new incorporation options with you based on your objectives.
Legal Steps in Buying a Shelf Company in Turkey
- Identifying a suitable shelf company and verifying its legal status
- Conducting legal and tax due diligence on the entity
- Preparing a Share Purchase Agreement (SPA)
- Filing general assembly resolution for shareholder and director change
- Amending Articles of Association (if necessary)
- Updating tax registration and bank signature cards
- Informing SGK (social security) and chamber registry
All steps can be managed remotely under POA with full documentation.
Documents You Will Need
- Passport copy and notarized Turkish translation
- Power of Attorney (POA) for our law firm to act on your behalf
- Tax ID registration form
- Bank application documents (if account transfer required)
We ensure all paperwork complies with Turkish Commercial Code and Bar Association standards.
Legal Risks and Our Mitigation Strategies
- Undisclosed liabilities or historical debts
- Non-compliance with annual reporting or tax filings
- Invalid signature circulars or expired board resolutions
- Incomplete social security or chamber records
Our Turkish Law Firm performs deep due diligence and provides liability disclaimers during the SPA phase.
What Can You Do With a Shelf Company?
- Engage in trading, manufacturing, or service activities
- Open a corporate bank account
- Obtain import/export licenses or municipality permits
- Hire employees and register with SGK
- Apply for work and residence permits
Older shelf companies may also improve your business’s credibility during bank or tender evaluations.
Internal Resources You Should Review
- How to Establish a Company in Turkey
- Choosing the Best Turkish Law Firm for Company Acquisition
- Post-Acquisition Legal Advisory
- SPA Drafting and Risk Management
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I buy a shelf company remotely? Yes. We manage the full process through POA.
- Is a shelf company free of debt? We conduct legal due diligence and include warranties in the SPA.
- Can I change the company name? Yes. We file a general assembly decision and update Trade Registry records.
- How long does the process take? 5–10 business days with our legal support.
- Will I get a bank account immediately? It depends on the bank, but we assist with expedited applications.
Contact Our Turkish Law Firm for Shelf Company Transactions
If you’re considering buying a shelf company in Turkey, trust our legal team to perform full due diligence, transfer documentation, and corporate advisory. At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers guide investors step-by-step through the acquisition process. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for corporate transactions, we deliver fast, safe, and strategic solutions.