Australia–Turkey Investment Relations
Australia and Turkey have a bilateral investment promotion and protection agreement. Both countries are members of the G20 and OECD, providing a stable framework for investment. Turkey and Australia also maintain diplomatic relations supporting business development.
Australian investors in Turkey are active primarily in mining, energy, agriculture, and professional services sectors. Turkey's growing economy and strategic location attract Australian entrepreneurs. The Australian-Turkish Business Council supports bilateral trade and investment development.
Can Australian Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of Australia can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Australian nationals receive equal treatment under the Turkish Commercial Code, with the same rights and obligations as Turkish-owned companies.
There are no sector restrictions specific to Australian investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Australian citizens can obtain an e-Visa for Turkey online for business stays up to 90 days. Work permits require a separate application to the Ministry of Labour after company formation. Australian investors with qualifying investments may be eligible for a Turkish residence permit.
Foreign shareholders who do not intend to work or reside in Turkey do not need a work permit or residence permit to own a company. However, if you plan to actively manage your Turkish company from Turkey, a work permit is legally required.
Recommended Company Type
The most common structure among Australian investors is the Limited Liability Company (LLC / Ltd. Şti.).
LLC (Ltd. Şti.)
- Min. 50,000 TRY capital
- 1–50 shareholders
- Simple management structure
- Best for SMEs and service businesses
Joint Stock (A.Ş.)
- Min. 250,000 TRY capital
- 1+ (no limit) shareholders
- Board of directors required
- Best for large-scale or IPO-track businesses
Branch Office
- No separate legal entity
- No minimum capital
- Extension of parent company
- Best for companies testing the market
Requirements for Australian Citizens
- Valid passport from Australia
- Turkish tax identification number (vergi numarası)
- Registered business address in Turkey
- Notarized Articles of Association (in Turkish)
- Minimum share capital deposit at a Turkish bank
- Power of attorney (if forming remotely without visiting Turkey)
Formation Process
- Consultation — Choose your company type, define business activities, and plan your structure
- MERSIS Pre-Registration — Enter company details in Turkey's central registry system
- Articles of Association — Draft, notarize, and sign (or via power of attorney)
- Bank Account & Capital Deposit — Open a Turkish bank account and deposit at least 25% of capital
- Trade Registry — File with the local Trade Registry Office
- Tax & Social Security — Register with the tax office and SGK
- Work Permits — Apply if foreign managers or employees will be based in Turkey
The process typically takes 5–10 business days once all documents are prepared. If documents need apostille or consular legalization from Australia, allow additional time.