Collecting unpaid debts in a foreign jurisdiction can be challenging. For foreign companies collecting debt in Turkey, understanding the local legal enforcement mechanisms is essential. At ER&GUN&ER Turkish Law Firm, we assist international businesses in resolving payment disputes, enforcing judgments, and recovering receivables through proper legal channels.
Is Debt Collection Legal in Turkey for Foreign Companies?
Yes. Turkish law allows foreign entities to pursue commercial debt collection through courts or enforcement offices. Our English-speaking lawyers in Turkey represent foreign clients throughout every stage of the enforcement process.
Step-by-Step: How to Collect a Debt in Turkey
- 1. Send a formal demand letter (ihtarname) via your Turkish lawyer
- 2. File a claim with the Execution Office (İcra Müdürlüğü)
- 3. If the debtor objects, initiate litigation in Commercial Court
- 4. Upon judgment, initiate asset seizure (haciz)
- 5. Enforce via lien, garnishment, or property auction
Fast-Track Enforcement: What If There’s a Foreign Invoice?
If you have a signed contract or commercial invoice, you may initiate direct enforcement proceedings in Turkey without filing a full lawsuit. Your Turkish law firm can translate and notarize documents for court submission.
Common Debt Recovery Scenarios for Foreign Companies
- Unpaid invoices by Turkish suppliers or distributors
- Franchise and licensing payment defaults
- Breach of contract in import/export transactions
- Outstanding service fees or consulting payments
Why Work With an English-Speaking Turkish Lawyer?
Our English-speaking lawyers in Turkey guide clients from demand to enforcement, providing legal clarity and procedural efficiency. With experience in international business litigation, we ensure your rights are protected under both Turkish and international law.
Costs of Debt Collection in Turkey
- Legal service fees (fixed or percentage-based)
- Court and enforcement office fees
- Notarization and translation costs (for foreign documents)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can a foreign company collect debt in Turkey without a local branch? Yes. Our law firm represents foreign companies directly under power of attorney.
- What documents are needed for debt recovery? Invoices, contracts, emails, or bank statements can all support your case.
- Can I enforce a foreign court judgment in Turkey? Yes, through the process of recognition and enforcement (tanıma ve tenfiz).
- How long does debt collection take in Turkey? Simple enforcement cases can conclude in 2–6 months. Court litigation may take longer depending on the dispute.
- Is it worth pursuing small debts? We assess costs vs. recovery potential and advise accordingly. We handle cases starting from €2,000 upwards.
- Do you offer full-service legal support? Yes. As a full-service Turkish law firm, we manage the process end-to-end including translations, filings, hearings, and enforcement actions.
- Can you act immediately on urgent enforcement cases? Absolutely. We offer expedited services for time-sensitive debt recovery matters.
- Why ER&GUN&ER? We are among the best law firms in Turkey with a strong record in international commercial disputes and enforcement law.
Don’t let unpaid invoices disrupt your operations. Contact ER&GUN&ER Law Firm to pursue your debt collection case with a skilled Turkish lawyer—fluent in legal enforcement and international commercial law.
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