Switzerland–Turkey Investment Relations
Switzerland and Turkey have a bilateral investment protection agreement and a Free Trade Agreement (signed 1992 under EFTA-Turkey FTA framework). Switzerland is a significant source of FDI into Turkey. Bilateral trade between Switzerland and Turkey exceeds CHF 5 billion annually.
Swiss companies are active in Turkey's pharmaceutical, financial services, food processing, and watchmaking sectors. Major Swiss corporations including Nestlé, Novartis, and ABB have established operations in Turkey. Turkey's pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity attracts Swiss healthcare companies. The Swiss-Turkish Chamber of Commerce provides support to Swiss businesses.
Can Swiss Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of Switzerland can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Swiss 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 Swiss investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Swiss citizens do not need a visa for Turkey for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Work permits must be applied for through the Ministry of Labour after company formation. The Turquoise Card may be available for highly qualified Swiss professionals and investors.
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 Swiss 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 Swiss Citizens
- Valid passport from Switzerland
- 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 Switzerland, allow additional time.