United Kingdom–Turkey Investment Relations
The UK–Turkey Free Trade Agreement (effective 2021) maintains preferential trade terms post-Brexit. A bilateral investment protection agreement further supports UK investors with legal safeguards. Both countries are also members of the G20, reinforcing economic cooperation.
The UK has a large and established investor community in Turkey, particularly along the Mediterranean coast and in Istanbul. British investors are active in tourism, hospitality, real estate, education, and trade sectors. The British Chamber of Commerce in Turkey provides networking and support services.
Can British Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of United Kingdom can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. British 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 British investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
UK citizens can obtain an e-Visa for Turkey for short stays up to 90 days. A work permit is required for those planning to reside in and manage their Turkish company. British investors may also be eligible for a residence permit based on company ownership.
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 British investors is the Limited Liability Company (LLC / Ltd. Şti.).
LLC (Ltd. Şti.)
- Min. 10,000 TRY capital
- 1–50 shareholders
- Simple management structure
- Best for SMEs and service businesses
Joint Stock (A.Ş.)
- Min. 50,000 TRY capital
- 1+ shareholders (no upper limit)
- 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 British Citizens
- Valid passport from United Kingdom
- 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 United Kingdom, allow additional time.