Starting a business in Turkey can offer foreign investors significant opportunities, especially when combined with the ability to live and work legally through a residence permit. However, successfully managing this process requires more than just paperwork—it requires strategic planning, legal precision, and experienced coordination. That’s why many global entrepreneurs rely on a professional Turkish Law Firm to manage company formation and residence procedures simultaneously.
At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our team of English Speaking Turkish Lawyers has assisted hundreds of clients in setting up companies while obtaining their Turkish residence permits. This guide outlines how a full-service Turkish Law Firm supports the process, avoids common pitfalls, and ensures legal compliance throughout your business journey in Turkey.
Benefits of Starting a Company in Turkey as a Foreigner
- 100% foreign ownership allowed in Limited and Joint Stock Companies
- No minimum Turkish partner required
- Gateway to Turkish and EU markets
- Eligibility for work and residence permits
- Potential eligibility for Turkish citizenship by investment
With the right structure and legal backing, your company can support multiple visas, tax optimization, and regional expansion across Türkiye and beyond.
Step-by-Step Support from a Turkish Law Firm
Working with a trusted Turkish Law Firm ensures that each legal and administrative step is taken in the correct order and format. We provide:
- Legal consultation on the right company type and capital structure
- Drafting articles of association and registering with the Trade Registry
- Obtaining a tax number and registering with tax authorities
- Opening corporate bank accounts (see how)
- Assigning legal address and obtaining work permit compatibility
- Preparing and filing residence permit applications
Every document is reviewed by a licensed attorney and filed according to current laws.
Residence Permit Eligibility Through Company Formation
Foreigners who establish companies in Turkey may apply for a short-term residence permit based on commercial activity. This permit is typically valid for 1 year and can be renewed. Our residence permit guide provides more information.
The criteria evaluated include:
- Legitimate business operation and capital injection
- Commercial activity (contracts, invoices, office presence)
- Compliance with local employment and tax law
- Proof of address and financial sustainability
Our Turkish Law Firm helps structure your company to meet these requirements and ensure strong file approval rates.
Remote Company Formation and Immigration Support
If you cannot travel to Turkey, we can handle the entire process with a power of attorney. From registering your company to applying for your residence permit, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers represent you at every step.
This remote approach has helped clients from over 20 countries launch their Turkish operations and secure residence without stepping foot into the country—especially during visa delays or travel restrictions.
Legal Risk Management and Ongoing Compliance
Setting up a company is only the beginning. A qualified Turkish Law Firm ensures ongoing compliance with:
- Monthly tax filings and social security reporting
- Employment contracts and HR policies
- Regulatory compliance with investment rules
- Business licensing and industry-specific requirements
We work closely with accountants, certified public consultants, and immigration offices to ensure your business remains compliant and your residence is never at risk.
Internal Resources You May Find Useful
- Company Formation in Turkey: Legal Guide
- Buying Property in Turkey as a Foreigner
- Turkish Citizenship by Investment Explained
- Residence Permit Process in Turkey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I apply for a residence permit with a new company? Yes, as long as your company is active and capitalized, and you can demonstrate commercial intention.
- Do I have to hire Turkish employees? Not initially. But if applying for a work permit later, employment of Turkish nationals is required.
- Is the company required to be in Istanbul? No. You can form a company anywhere in Turkey—Ankara, Antalya, İzmir, etc.
- Do I have to rent an office? Yes. A legal business address is mandatory for registration and immigration approval.
- Can a Turkish Law Firm manage all of this remotely? Absolutely. Our team handles POA-based company setup, tax coordination, immigration filings, and reporting.
Contact Our Corporate and Immigration Lawyers in Turkey
If you’re considering establishing a business in Turkey and want to obtain residence at the same time, ER&GUN&ER Law Firm is your trusted legal partner. Our experienced Turkish Law Firm supports foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and families with end-to-end legal services—no matter where you are in the world. Let our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers help you get started today.