How to Form a Limited Company in Turkey? 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

This is the quick-answer version: if you want the fast overview of forming a Limited Şirket (LTD) in Turkey -- what it is, the minimum capital, and roughly how the process flows -- start here. For a full step-by-step walkthrough with the complete document checklist, tax registration details, and post-incorporation obligations, see our complete LTD formation guide.

What Is a Limited Şirket?

A Limited Şirket is Turkey's equivalent of an LLC -- the most common structure for small and medium foreign-owned businesses, requiring at least one shareholder (individual or corporate, resident or foreign) and offering liability limited to the capital contributed. It contrasts with an Anonim Şirket (AŞ), which suits larger operations, has higher capital requirements, and can access public capital markets.

Minimum Capital in 2026

Following capital-requirement reforms effective January 1, 2024, the minimum capital for a Limited Şirket is 50,000 Turkish Lira. Existing companies that were below this threshold have until December 31, 2026 to bring their registered capital up to the new minimum or risk dissolution -- if you already own an older LTD with lower capital, this deadline is relevant to you this year, not just to new incorporations.

The Process in Brief

1. Reserve the company name via MERSİS (the central trade registry system) and draft the articles of association.
2. Deposit the capital and obtain the required bank letter.
3. Notarize signatures and register with the local Trade Registry Office (Ticaret Sicili).
4. Register for tax (vergi levha) and obtain your tax identification number.
5. Register employees with SGK if you plan to hire staff, and complete any sector-specific licensing.

When a Simple Overview Isn't Enough

This overview covers the shape of the process, but real incorporations involve notary appointments, translated and apostilled documents for foreign shareholders, a registered accountant, and decisions about share structure that are easy to get wrong without guidance. For a document-by-document walkthrough and cost breakdown, contact us or read our complete step-by-step guide.

Capital requirements and registration procedures are set by Turkish commercial law and are periodically revised; confirm current figures before budgeting for incorporation.