Company Formation in Turkey for Chinese Citizens

China–Turkey Investment Relations

China and Turkey signed a bilateral investment treaty in 2015, which replaced an earlier 1990 agreement, 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 invested in Turkey's energy, infrastructure, logistics, telecommunications, and e-commerce sectors — Alibaba acquired a majority stake in Trendyol in 2018 — and, more recently, reportedly in electric-vehicle, battery, and smartphone manufacturing. Turkish government data put Chinese investment at roughly $4 billion, while other sources cite lower figures. Turkey's position along the Belt and Road corridor makes it a strategic hub for Chinese businesses targeting European and Middle Eastern markets.

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 with ordinary passports have been visa-exempt for tourism and transit stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period since 2 January 2026, under a presidential decree; older guides that describe an e-Visa or sticker visa are out of date. The exemption does not cover work or long-term residence, and whether a business trip such as signing company documents falls within it should be confirmed with a Turkish consulate before you travel. Work permits follow the Ministry of Labour process after company formation.

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.

Preparing Your Documents in China

China joined the Apostille Convention in 2023, which simplified use of Chinese documents abroad: a Chinese notary certificate can now be apostilled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a local foreign affairs office, replacing consular legalization. Documents are then translated into Turkish by a sworn translator. Confirm with your formation agent that the notary certificate and apostille are the versions Turkish authorities currently expect.

Moving Capital from China to Turkey

Overseas direct investment by Chinese companies is subject to filing or approval with the NDRC and MOFCOM (or their local branches), plus foreign-exchange registration through banks under SAFE rules. The annual personal foreign-exchange quota is not a route for overseas direct investment, so most investors work through a company structure. Plan the approvals early, because they can add weeks to the timeline.

Home-Country Tax and Reporting for Chinese Investors

Chinese tax residents are taxed on worldwide income, and China has controlled-foreign-company rules aimed at undistributed profits kept in low-tax jurisdictions. The China–Turkey double taxation agreement covers withholding on dividends, interest and royalties. Because outbound structures also affect your registrations with Chinese authorities, align your tax and approvals advice before you choose the shareholding structure.

Recommended Company Type

Most foreign investors choose the Limited Liability Company (LLC / Ltd. Şti.): about 91% of the foreign-partner companies established in Turkey in 2019 were LLCs, according to TOBB figures. Compare the three options below.

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

1. Consultation — Choose your company type, define business activities, and plan your structure
2. MERSIS Pre-Registration — Enter company details in Turkey's central registry system
3. Articles of Association — Draft, notarize, and sign (or via power of attorney)
4. Bank Account & Capital Deposit — Open a Turkish bank account and deposit at least 25% of capital
5. Trade Registry — File with the local Trade Registry Office
6. Tax & Social Security — Register with the tax office and SGK
7. 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.