Company Formation in Türkiye: Ltd. Şti. vs A.Ş. Guide
Entrepreneurs, investors and foreign-owned businesses
Short answer
Foreigners can own 100% of a limited (Ltd. Şti.) or joint-stock (A.Ş.) company in Türkiye, registered through the Trade Registry, and company partners or managers may obtain residence under certain conditions.
Türkiye allows foreign nationals and foreign companies to set up and fully own a business, with the same legal footing as Turkish founders in most sectors. Istanbul is the commercial centre, with a deep services, trading, logistics and technology market.
Which company type should I choose?
| Type | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Limited company (Ltd. Şti.) | Small and mid-sized businesses, trading, consulting | Simpler governance; the most common choice for foreign founders |
| Joint-stock company (A.Ş.) | Larger ventures, investors, planned share issues | More formal structure; higher capital expectations |
| Branch of a foreign company | Existing foreign firms expanding | Linked to the parent company |
| Sole proprietorship | Individuals with residence | Limited use for foreign founders |
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Turkish company?
Yes, in most activities. Some regulated sectors, such as certain financial, media or aviation activities, have special rules. We check your activity before you file.
How is a company registered?
A company is registered with the Trade Registry, with the articles of association signed before a notary or through the authorised system, followed by tax registration, and, where relevant, social security registration. Minimum capital depends on the company type and changes by law, so we confirm the current requirement in writing before you commit.
Can I get residence through my company?
Company partners and managers may obtain residence under certain conditions, such as capital and activity levels. A company alone does not guarantee a permit, and work in the company still follows the work permit rules, so we plan both together.
What else is needed after registration?
- A corporate bank account, which banks open after checking the founders and the activity.
- An accountant, because Turkish bookkeeping and tax filing are mandatory.
- A registered office address and, where relevant, a lease.
- Licences for regulated activities.
How long does it take and what does it cost?
Registration is often quick in practice, but the whole set-up, including the bank account and residence, depends on the authorities and banks. Fees, capital and tax rates change, so we give the current figures in writing and promise no dates.
How does DXB.IST help?
We start with a free consultation to match your activity with the right company type, then prepare the document checklist, translations, power of attorney and Trade Registry filings with licensed lawyers and accountants. We help with the bank account, office address and residence for partners and managers, and our travel desk arranges your visits, hotels and airport transfers. We are not a government body and cannot guarantee approvals or bank decisions.
Who qualifies
- Adult founders with valid passports
- A lawful business activity
- At least the number of partners the company type requires
- A registered office address
- Capital in line with the company type
- Compliance with sector licensing, if regulated
Documents you'll need
- Valid passports of all partners and translations
- Articles of association draft
- Power of attorney, if signing remotely
- Registered office or lease contract
- Proof of capital commitment
- Tax identification numbers
- Company name reservation
- Authorised signatory specimens
How it works, step by step
- 1
Consultation
We match your activity, partners and budget with the right company type.
- 2
Preparation
Names, articles of association and the office address are prepared.
- 3
Registration
The company is registered with the Trade Registry and tax office.
- 4
Bank account
A corporate account is opened, with the capital paid in as required.
- 5
Accounting and licences
An accountant is appointed and any sector licences are arranged.
- 6
Residence and work permits
Partner residence and any employee work permits are planned.
City by city
Frequently asked questions
Yes, in most activities, foreigners can own all the shares of a limited or joint-stock company.
