Foreign nationals often need to open a bank account in Turkey to manage property purchases, residency processes, business operations, or investment portfolios. However, the banking system in Turkey can be complex—especially for non-residents without tax numbers or physical presence. Fortunately, it is legally possible to open a bank account through a Turkish Law Firm using a notarized power of attorney (POA).
At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers guide foreign clients through every step of the remote account opening process. This guide outlines the legal requirements, POA structure, banking compliance rules, and practical strategies for account activation.
Why Open a Bank Account Through a Turkish Law Firm?
Using a Turkish Law Firm to open a bank account provides multiple advantages:
- No need for physical presence in Turkey
- Professional document preparation and translation
- Pre-established relationships with local banks
- Faster processing and legal assurance
- Compliance with Turkish banking and anti-money laundering (AML) rules
Many Turkish banks are cautious when dealing with foreigners directly, especially in cases involving international transactions or investment funds. Representation by a licensed law firm increases your credibility and simplifies internal approval processes.
Which Banks Allow POA-Based Account Opening?
Most large Turkish banks accept account openings via POA, including:
- Ziraat Bankası
- Garanti BBVA
- İş Bankası
- Yapı Kredi
- Akbank
- HSBC Turkey
However, policies vary between branches. Our Turkish Law Firm communicates with bank compliance units in advance to confirm acceptance of foreign-issued POAs and documents.
What Is Included in the Power of Attorney?
The POA must specifically authorize your lawyer to open a bank account on your behalf. It should include:
- Authorization to apply for a tax number
- Authorization to represent you before selected banks
- Permission to sign bank forms and contracts
- Authority to declare fund source and purpose
- Right to receive debit cards, bank letters (optional)
The POA must be either:
- Notarized and apostilled in your home country
- Signed at a Turkish consulate abroad
- Signed in Turkey with a sworn translator
Required Documents for Bank Account Opening
- Valid passport
- Tax Identification Number (obtained by lawyer)
- Proof of address (utility bill or lease agreement)
- Legalized power of attorney
- Optional: residence permit copy, company documents, etc.
Some banks request source of funds explanations for larger transfers. Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers assist in preparing supporting statements and currency exchange reports.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Once the POA is received and verified, the entire process usually takes between 3 to 7 business days. Account activation can be expedited for urgent transactions such as real estate purchases, corporate share transfers, or investment citizenship payments.
Can the Bank Account Be Used Internationally?
Yes. Foreign clients can use Turkish bank accounts for:
- SEPA and SWIFT international transfers
- Real estate payments in TL or foreign currency
- Paying taxes and utility bills
- Receiving rental income or dividends
Many banks issue online banking access with English interface and allow remote management once the account is active.
Real Case Examples
- 🇬🇧 A UK citizen opened an account via POA to purchase real estate in Antalya. Funds transferred from HSBC UK. Transaction closed in 5 days.
- 🇩🇪 A German client used our Turkish Law Firm to open multiple accounts under a family trust. Tax declaration filed by our partner accountants.
- 🇷🇺 A Russian investor opened a company and bank account remotely. POA issued in Dubai, notarized and apostilled—accepted by Ziraat Bankası.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is it legal to open a bank account through a lawyer in Turkey? Yes. Turkish law permits representation via POA for banking, and most banks accept it.
- Can I use my foreign passport only? Yes. But address proof and tax ID are also required.
- Do all banks allow foreign POAs? Not all. We check acceptance policies before initiating the process.
- Can I use the account for investment citizenship? Yes. It is required for $400,000 property transfers or capital deposits.
- Do I have to come to Turkey at any point? No. The process can be completed entirely through a Turkish Law Firm.
Contact Our Turkish Banking Lawyers
At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our team of English Speaking Turkish Lawyers has extensive experience in assisting foreign nationals and companies with banking procedures in Turkey. Whether you are buying property, applying for residence, or managing cross-border assets, our Turkish Law Firm ensures secure and compliant account opening through POA representation. Contact us today to start the process with confidence.