Foreign companies often want to explore the Turkish market, establish a local presence, and maintain business communication—without immediately committing to a fully registered subsidiary. In these situations, opening a liaison office in Turkey is a strategic, low-risk solution. However, because liaison offices must follow strict legal and regulatory rules, working with a qualified Turkish Law Firm is critical to ensure smooth registration and lawful operations.
At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers help international businesses establish and manage liaison offices across Turkey. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for corporate structuring and investment, we assist clients from initial application to operational compliance and permit renewals.
What Is a Liaison Office in Turkey?
A liaison office—also known as a representative office—allows a foreign company to maintain a physical presence in Turkey for non-commercial purposes. The office may conduct market research, promotional activities, communication, and supplier coordination—but cannot generate income or issue invoices in Turkey.
The key features of liaison offices include:
- No trade activity or profit-making allowed
- Must be fully funded from abroad
- Permits issued by the Ministry of Industry and Technology
- Can hire limited staff for permitted functions
Our company formation guide explains how liaison offices differ from limited or joint-stock companies.
Legal Services Offered by Our Turkish Law Firm
- Application file preparation and submission
- Translation and notarization of corporate documents
- POA-based representation before authorities
- Lease contract review and office registration
- Social security and tax file coordination
- Annual reporting compliance and permit renewals
All services are provided in English and Turkish, under the direct supervision of licensed lawyers.
Documents Required to Open a Liaison Office
- Certificate of Incorporation of the foreign company
- Board Resolution to open a liaison office in Turkey
- Activity report and work plan for the next 3 years
- Power of Attorney issued to the Turkish representative
- Notarized and apostilled corporate documents
We prepare, translate, notarize, and file all documents under POA—minimizing your time and administrative burden.
Permitted Activities for Liaison Offices
- Market research and feasibility studies
- Communication and coordination with headquarters
- Supplier or quality control services
- Information collection and sector reporting
- Pre-investment planning and promotion
Our international trade legal team also advises liaison offices on compliance with customs and data protection regulations.
What Liaison Offices Cannot Do
- Engage in manufacturing, import, or export activities
- Sign contracts generating income in Turkey
- Issue commercial invoices
- Employ staff for profit-generating work
Violating these rules may result in permit cancellation and legal liability. Our Turkish Law Firm ensures operational compliance through regular review and audit support.
Application and Approval Timeline
The liaison office permit is issued by the Ministry of Industry and Technology within 3–5 weeks. Once obtained, we proceed with:
- Local address registration with tax office
- Social security registration (if hiring staff)
- Bank account opening under POA
- Initial annual report preparation
Permits are issued for up to 3 years and may be renewed with activity justification. See our banking services for more.
Internal Resources You Should Review
- Company Formation vs Liaison Office
- Ongoing Legal Support for Foreign Companies
- Choosing the Right Law Firm for Your Office
- Joint Ventures and Representation Strategies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is a liaison office the same as a branch? No. Liaison offices cannot engage in commercial activity.
- Can I convert my liaison office to a company? Yes. We assist with transformation procedures.
- Can a foreign company sign a lease? Yes. We review lease contracts and register them properly.
- Do I need to be in Turkey? No. Our Turkish Law Firm manages the process under POA.
- How often do I have to report to the Ministry? Annually. We prepare and file the necessary reports for you.
Contact Our Turkish Law Firm for Liaison Office Setup
Establishing a liaison office in Turkey is a smart way to enter the market without full commercial risk. At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers help international businesses manage the entire setup process from start to finish. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for corporate entry strategies, we ensure full legal compliance and fast-track results.