Pakistan–Turkey Investment Relations
Pakistan and Turkey have a bilateral investment protection agreement and a Framework Agreement on Economic and Commercial Cooperation. Both countries are members of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Bilateral trade has been growing, with both countries aiming to increase trade volumes significantly.
Pakistani investment in Turkey has been growing, particularly in textiles, pharmaceuticals, and trading sectors. Turkey and Pakistan share strong historical and cultural ties through the OIC and ECO frameworks. The Pakistan-Turkey Business Council promotes bilateral trade and investment. Pakistani investors benefit from Turkey's position as a manufacturing and trade hub.
Can Pakistani Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of Pakistan can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Pakistani 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 Pakistani investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Pakistani citizens need a visa or e-Visa to enter Turkey. Business visas are available for investment-related activities. Work permits require a separate application through the Ministry of Labour after company registration.
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 Pakistani 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 Pakistani Citizens
- Valid passport from Pakistan
- 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 Pakistan, allow additional time.