China–Turkey Investment Relations
China and Turkey have a bilateral investment treaty and maintain strong economic cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Several major Chinese infrastructure and energy projects are active in Turkey, and both countries have expressed commitment to expanding trade and investment ties.
Chinese companies have made significant investments in Turkey's energy, infrastructure, telecommunications, and e-commerce sectors. Turkey's position along the Belt and Road corridor makes it a strategic hub for Chinese businesses targeting European and Middle Eastern markets. Chinese investments are primarily concentrated in Istanbul and the industrial zones around Kocaeli and Ankara.
Can Chinese Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of China can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Chinese 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 Chinese investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Chinese citizens need a visa or e-Visa to enter Turkey. Business visas are available for investment and trade activities. Work permit applications follow the standard Ministry of Labour process and typically take 4–8 weeks.
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 Chinese investors is the Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.).
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 Chinese Citizens
- Valid passport from China
- 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 China, allow additional time.