Foreign companies seeking to expand their presence in Turkey without engaging in direct commercial activity can establish a liaison office under the authorization of the Turkish Ministry of Trade. Liaison offices offer a legally recognized presence in Turkey for market research, promotion, and coordination—without generating revenue. Istanbul Law Firm, a premier Turkish Law Firm, assists global corporations in setting up liaison offices with full legal compliance. Our experienced Turkish Lawyers manage applications, draft official petitions, and coordinate with public institutions. With an English speaking lawyer in Turkey, companies avoid bureaucratic pitfalls and ensure a swift, strategic market entry. This guide explains how to open a liaison office in Turkey from legal eligibility to post-approval obligations.
1. Legal Definition and Scope of a Liaison Office in Turkey
A liaison office in Turkey is a non-commercial legal entity that enables a foreign company to operate in the country for limited purposes without registering a full branch or subsidiary. Istanbul Law Firm clarifies that such offices may only perform specified activities such as feasibility studies, promotional efforts, local market monitoring, and intercompany coordination. Our Turkish Lawyers ensure that these operations remain within the scope permitted under Turkish foreign investment regulations. Liaison offices cannot engage in any income-generating activities such as sales, services, or invoicing. With an English speaking lawyer in Turkey, international firms gain a clear understanding of what is legally allowed—and what is prohibited—under liaison permits.
Under Article 5 of the Direct Foreign Investment Law No. 4875 and its related Regulation, liaison offices must be authorized by the Ministry of Trade General Directorate of Incentive Practices and Foreign Capital. Istanbul Law Firm prepares all necessary documentation for this application process, including the foreign company’s incorporation documents, power of attorney, activity descriptions, and financial standing proof. Our Turkish Lawyers monitor the scope of requested activity to avoid rejection based on revenue-generating potential. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for corporate establishment, we support clients through every institutional touchpoint. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey provides bilingual coordination to eliminate translation errors and timeline setbacks.
Liaison offices in Turkey are legally restricted from converting into commercial branches. If a company wishes to transition to trade, a separate entity such as a limited liability company must be formed. Istanbul Law Firm advises on expansion planning and corporate restructuring once liaison activities mature. Our Turkish Lawyers ensure that foreign investors follow the correct process from non-commercial representation to market establishment. With our English speaking lawyer in Turkey, clients maintain legal clarity and operational flexibility at every step of their Turkish market strategy.
2. Eligibility and Conditions for Foreign Companies
To be eligible for opening a liaison office in Turkey, the applicant must be a legally incorporated foreign company that has been active for at least one year. Istanbul Law Firm reviews corporate documents and structures to confirm compliance with Turkish requirements. Our Turkish Lawyers check the foreign entity’s trade registry records, articles of association, and financials to ensure eligibility. With Istanbul Law Firm managing your case, all submissions to the Ministry of Trade are correctly formatted, legalized, and translated. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey assists with apostille or consular authentication of foreign documents as needed.
Applicants must also provide a detailed description of intended activities in Turkey and commit to operating without generating commercial income. Istanbul Law Firm drafts precise activity statements that align with Ministry guidelines while reflecting the company’s strategic goals. Our Turkish Lawyers highlight permitted functions such as public relations, supplier coordination, or after-sales support. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for foreign investment compliance, we help businesses align their intent with Turkish policy limitations. With our English speaking lawyer in Turkey, foreign companies present a professional and convincing case to Turkish regulators.
In addition, foreign companies must appoint a legal representative to reside in Turkey and act on behalf of the liaison office. Istanbul Law Firm prepares the appointment resolutions, power of attorney drafts, and representative declarations in full legal form. Our Turkish Lawyers also advise on tax implications, social security, and immigration matters for the representative. With support from our English speaking lawyer in Turkey, global companies can confidently manage local representation while maintaining foreign ownership and control.
3. Required Documentation and Legalization Process
Establishing a liaison office in Turkey requires a specific set of documents that must be correctly legalized and translated. Istanbul Law Firm prepares and verifies the full application dossier to meet Ministry of Trade standards. Our Turkish Lawyers collect and review incorporation certificates, articles of association, a recent activity report of the foreign parent company, a power of attorney, and a signed liaison office activity plan. With Istanbul Law Firm managing your file, all notarizations, translations, and formalities are handled efficiently. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey ensures full legal equivalency of foreign corporate documents for Turkish regulatory review.
All foreign-issued documents must be legalized either through apostille (if from a Hague Convention country) or via Turkish consular authentication. Istanbul Law Firm assists clients in identifying the correct legalization path based on jurisdiction. Our Turkish Lawyers also manage Turkish sworn translations and notary certifications for timely and correct presentation. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for international corporate filings, we eliminate the risks of rejected applications due to incomplete or improperly certified documentation. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey guides you step-by-step through the document preparation process.
Once the documents are legalized, they are compiled into an official application petition submitted to the Ministry of Trade. Istanbul Law Firm handles the entire submission process, including pre-checking files with Ministry officials. Our Turkish Lawyers maintain internal templates and formatting standards to align your application with current Ministry practices. With Istanbul Law Firm, global firms benefit from fast, compliant, and fully translated submissions prepared to institutional standards. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey provides proactive communication and document checklists for seamless coordination.
4. Ministry of Trade Application Filing and Approval Timeline
All liaison office applications are submitted to the Ministry of Trade’s Directorate General of Incentive Implementation and Foreign Capital. Istanbul Law Firm submits electronic and hard copy files and maintains direct contact with Ministry evaluators during the approval phase. Our Turkish Lawyers monitor every stage of the process, follow up on any requests for clarification, and resolve documentation issues. With Istanbul Law Firm as your legal advisor, companies benefit from a structured and streamlined filing process. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey provides bilingual updates to ensure full transparency for your corporate team abroad.
The approval process typically takes 2–4 weeks depending on documentation quality and Ministry workload. Istanbul Law Firm expedites the review by submitting fully compliant, error-free documents and proactively responding to inquiries. Our Turkish Lawyers anticipate common delays and mitigate risks through checklists and advance legal review. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for foreign entity registration, we ensure fast-track approval when conditions allow. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey coordinates internal reviews and prepares explanatory summaries for global compliance teams.
Once the liaison office is approved, the Ministry issues a certificate of registration and assigns an operating validity period, typically starting at three years. Istanbul Law Firm receives the approval certificate on your behalf and initiates local post-registration steps. Our Turkish Lawyers also advise on renewal timelines, permitted extension requests, and long-term liaison strategy. With Istanbul Law Firm, foreign companies maintain lawful presence in Turkey with clarity and control. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey stays engaged to support ongoing legal and operational needs.
5. Office Registration, Tax Number, and Local Notifications
After obtaining Ministry approval, the liaison office must complete local registrations for legal identity, tax compliance, and reporting. Istanbul Law Firm registers the liaison office at the local tax office to obtain a tax ID number, which is required for lease agreements, utility subscriptions, and employment filings. Our Turkish Lawyers ensure proper formatting of tax declarations and office location statements. With Istanbul Law Firm in charge, all post-approval procedures are legally accurate and timely. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey handles documentation in both Turkish and English for seamless communication with global headquarters.
The liaison office must also notify the relevant Social Security Institution (SGK) if it plans to hire employees. Istanbul Law Firm prepares these notices and files employee insurance entries with full regulatory compliance. Our Turkish Lawyers draft labor contracts, advise on employer obligations, and ensure non-commercial scope is preserved in HR practices. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for post-licensing compliance, Istanbul Law Firm safeguards clients from penalties and administrative risks. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey provides ongoing liaison office compliance support after setup.
Local notifications must also be made to the district municipality and other authorities depending on the office’s location. Istanbul Law Firm manages these filings, including address declarations, lease registration, and signage permissions. Our Turkish Lawyers provide end-to-end legal coordination to finalize operational setup. With Istanbul Law Firm handling your local notifications, nothing is missed and compliance is ensured. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey keeps international teams informed and aligned with Turkish regulatory expectations.
6. Permitted Activities and Operating Limitations of Liaison Offices
Liaison offices in Turkey are strictly limited in scope and cannot engage in revenue-generating activity. Istanbul Law Firm ensures that foreign companies understand and respect the operational boundaries set by the Ministry of Trade. Permitted activities include conducting market research, gathering local data, coordinating with suppliers, handling PR functions, and providing after-sales support—without charging fees. Our Turkish Lawyers advise clients on crafting operational workflows that remain within the Ministry’s defined non-commercial framework. With Istanbul Law Firm guiding compliance, companies avoid violations that could lead to permit revocation. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey translates legal limits into operational policies for your teams.
The Ministry of Trade regularly monitors the scope of liaison office operations and may request activity reports or conduct inspections. Istanbul Law Firm helps clients prepare for audits by reviewing correspondence, internal documentation, and marketing materials. Our Turkish Lawyers advise on legally permissible engagement strategies with clients, media, and business partners. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for corporate structuring, Istanbul Law Firm ensures your presence in Turkey remains compliant and risk-free. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey manages all communications with Ministry officials and local authorities during compliance checks.
Violating the non-commercial clause may lead to permit cancellation, fines, or forced transition to a limited company. Istanbul Law Firm audits client activities periodically to prevent accidental breaches, especially when liaison offices become heavily involved in strategic operations. Our Turkish Lawyers issue early warnings and propose legal restructuring when business growth requires a change in legal status. With Istanbul Law Firm, companies maintain flexibility while preserving regulatory confidence. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey works closely with headquarters to evaluate legal paths when the liaison model is no longer sufficient.
7. Employment of Foreign and Local Staff
Liaison offices in Turkey are allowed to employ both Turkish and foreign personnel, provided that their roles align with non-commercial activity. Istanbul Law Firm prepares legal employment contracts and ensures registrations are made with the Social Security Institution (SGK). Our Turkish Lawyers advise on labor law obligations, salary declarations, and work schedule frameworks suitable for liaison operations. With Istanbul Law Firm managing HR legalities, companies avoid misclassification and employment disputes. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey provides guidance on bilingual contracts and local HR compliance protocols.
Employing foreign personnel at a liaison office requires prior approval and a valid work permit under the Foreigners and International Protection Law. Istanbul Law Firm files work permit applications on behalf of foreign managers or advisors stationed at the liaison office. Our Turkish Lawyers ensure role definitions meet legal criteria and submit justifications to the Ministry of Labor. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for immigration and corporate employment law, Istanbul Law Firm ensures lawful staff onboarding. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey coordinates work visa logistics and legal documentation with your global HR team.
Employee benefits, termination rules, and payroll tax compliance must be handled according to Turkish labor law—even for liaison offices. Istanbul Law Firm offers monthly legal oversight services for payroll reports, SGK declarations, and personnel changes. Our Turkish Lawyers also provide dispute resolution support in case of labor disagreements. With Istanbul Law Firm handling your employment infrastructure, companies enjoy peace of mind with regard to staff management. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey ensures local HR processes match international standards and policies.
8. Annual Reporting, Audits, and Ministry Oversight
All liaison offices in Turkey are required to submit an annual activity report to the Ministry of Trade summarizing their operations and compliance status. Istanbul Law Firm prepares and submits these reports in line with current legal expectations. Our Turkish Lawyers compile relevant metrics, narrative explanations, and documentation to support the lawful continuation of the liaison permit. With Istanbul Law Firm, clients meet their annual obligations without procedural gaps. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey ensures that reports are translated, formatted, and aligned with corporate governance policies abroad.
The Ministry may also request periodic inspections or audits to verify that the liaison office is not engaging in trade. Istanbul Law Firm offers compliance checkups and internal reviews to prepare for such events. Our Turkish Lawyers examine correspondence logs, office lease terms, and personnel roles to ensure the operation remains strictly non-commercial. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for foreign investment compliance, Istanbul Law Firm equips clients with risk management strategies and legal safeguards. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey oversees audit response communications and defends the office’s compliance posture.
Failure to file reports or respond to audit requests can result in cancellation of the liaison office permit. Istanbul Law Firm tracks all statutory deadlines, drafts extensions when needed, and communicates proactively with the Ministry. Our Turkish Lawyers also represent clients in hearings or dispute resolutions relating to compliance status. With Istanbul Law Firm maintaining your regulatory calendar, your office remains in good legal standing year-round. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey guarantees that international teams stay informed and confident throughout each reporting cycle.
9. Liaison Office Renewal, Termination, and Conversion Options
Liaison office permits in Turkey are typically granted for a period of up to three years and must be renewed before expiration. Istanbul Law Firm manages the renewal process by preparing updated activity reports, continued justification of non-commercial operations, and compliance confirmations. Our Turkish Lawyers track expiration dates and handle filing with the Ministry of Trade. With Istanbul Law Firm overseeing renewals, foreign companies ensure uninterrupted legal presence in Turkey. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey handles Ministry correspondence, translation of supporting documents, and internal deadline monitoring.
If a foreign company wishes to end its operations in Turkey, it must formally notify the Ministry and complete tax closure procedures. Istanbul Law Firm prepares termination petitions and deregistration filings with tax offices and SGK. Our Turkish Lawyers also coordinate office lease terminations and employee exits in compliance with Turkish law. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for corporate lifecycle management, Istanbul Law Firm handles orderly dissolution of liaison offices. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey ensures clarity in all exit-related legal documents and notifications.
In cases where the liaison office evolves into commercial activity, it must be closed and replaced with a new company registration. Istanbul Law Firm helps foreign investors transition to a limited liability company or joint-stock company structure. Our Turkish Lawyers draft new incorporation documents, manage investment approvals, and complete Trade Registry filings. With Istanbul Law Firm, businesses grow from observation to operation lawfully and strategically. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey ensures international business units understand Turkish incorporation and compliance requirements.
10. Why Choose Istanbul Law Firm for Liaison Office Setup in Turkey
Istanbul Law Firm offers end-to-end legal services for establishing liaison offices in Turkey. We guide foreign companies through every legal and administrative step, from initial planning to Ministry filings and post-approval compliance. Our Turkish Lawyers have extensive experience with Ministry of Trade requirements, corporate structuring, and cross-border legal processes. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for foreign business entry, we provide clear, bilingual legal guidance and trusted execution. With an English speaking lawyer in Turkey, companies benefit from real-time updates, strategic insight, and full representation.
We are not just document processors—we are strategic advisors. Istanbul Law Firm anticipates future needs such as office renewal, expansion, hiring, or conversion to a trading entity. Our Turkish Lawyers coordinate across departments and ministries to align your Turkey presence with global business goals. Whether you are a tech startup, multinational manufacturer, or service group, we tailor the liaison office structure to your exact needs. With Istanbul Law Firm, your entry to Turkey is planned, protected, and positioned for growth. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey delivers legal clarity across every jurisdiction.
Partner with us to launch and grow your liaison office in Turkey with legal confidence, risk management, and strategic compliance support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is a liaison office in Turkey? – A non-commercial representation office for foreign companies to operate legally without trading or invoicing.
- Who approves liaison offices? – The Ministry of Trade Directorate General of Incentive Implementation and Foreign Capital.
- Can a liaison office generate income? – No. Liaison offices must operate strictly without revenue-generating activities.
- What documents are required? – Company incorporation certificate, activity report, power of attorney, and legalized translations.
- Is work permit required for foreign staff? – Yes. Foreign employees must obtain work permits approved by the Ministry of Labor.
- Can a liaison office become a company? – Not directly. It must close and the company must register a separate legal entity.
- What is the validity period of a liaison permit? – Typically 3 years, renewable upon Ministry approval and continued compliance.
- Are taxes payable by liaison offices? – They are exempt from corporate tax but must comply with payroll and local tax filings.
- Is local office registration required? – Yes. Tax office, SGK, and municipality must be notified upon approval.
- Can a liaison office have employees? – Yes, provided they are not engaged in commercial roles or sales functions.
- How long does the process take? – Usually 3–5 weeks from document preparation to Ministry approval.
- Why work with Istanbul Law Firm? – We are the best lawyer firm in Turkey for liaison office setup, with bilingual experts and strategic legal coordination.
Establish Your Liaison Office in Turkey with Legal Assurance
Istanbul Law Firm provides full legal assistance to foreign companies opening liaison offices in Turkey. Our Turkish Lawyers and English speaking lawyer in Turkey ensure strategic planning, fast approval, and long-term compliance success.