Turkey continues to draw international interest thanks to its stable land-registry infrastructure, dynamic rental markets in major cities (Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya), and a maturing legal framework for cross-border transactions. That said, foreign parties must meet documentary prerequisites, navigate location and ownership limits, run tight due diligence on title/encumbrances, and follow special valuation and payment rules that apply to foreign-involved transactions and—where relevant—the Turkish citizenship by investment route.
Below, we set out the essentials and the pitfalls—so you can invest (or exit) with confidence.
Yes—subject to certain statutory restrictions.
Core limits include location restrictions (no purchases in military or security zones) and ownership caps (per-person hectare limits nation-wide and percentage limits within a district).
In this context, foreigners cannot acquire property in military or security zones, one person may hold at most thirty hectares nationwide with a limited possibility of increase by decree, and in any district foreign ownership of private land may not exceed ten percent, and these checks are performed at the start of the transaction before any payment while a competent lawyer verifies the parcel’s eligibility including quotas with the Land Registry, the Cadastre, and the relevant local authorities.
Since 2019, a real estate valuation report from a licensed appraisal company has been mandatory for foreign-involved sales (buyers or sellers). For citizenship-linked purchases, the appraiser must be SPK-licensed (Capital Markets Board of Turkey). Do not bypass this step: the Tapu (title office) expects the report at transfer, and citizenship filings scrutinize valuations closely.
In 2025, the importance of this valuation has amplified due to market volatility and anti-inflation measures. The report not only sets a fair market value but also serves as a benchmark for tax calculations, preventing under-declaration disputes with the Revenue Administration. Appraisers now incorporate more data points, including recent comparable sales and economic forecasts, to ensure accuracy.
If your acquisition is also aimed at obtaining Turkish nationality, current rules provide an exceptional path to citizenship for a real estate purchase of at least USD 400,000 with a three-year no-sale undertaking annotated on the title. For citizenship cases, payments must be traceable via bank transfer with proper receipts.
For those not pursuing full citizenship, 2025 introduces clearer pathways to residency via property ownership. Under Article 31 of the Foreigners and International Protection Law, purchasing a property with a cadastral value set by the migration authorities (As of the date of this article at least $200,000) qualifies for a short-term residence permit, renewable annually. Benefits extend to spouses, children under 25, and dependent parents (with two-year permits). This is ideal for retirees or digital nomads seeking extended stays without the higher citizenship investment.
THE END-TO-END WORKFLOW (BUYER SIDE)
Step 1: Document readiness and tax number
Start with identity and compliance basics. Prepare valid passports (with notarized translations if the Land Registry requests them). Obtain a Turkish Tax Number for each buyer—your counsel can coordinate this quickly. Keep proof of address and basic KYC documents on hand, as banks and appraisers may request them.
Step 2: Financial setup & currency
Set up clean, traceable payment rails before you sign. Your lawyer will confirm acceptable banking channels and the transfer evidence the Tapu Office expects. If you are pursuing citizenship by investment, ensure you will have stamped/signed bank transfer receipts; cash payments do not qualify for the program.
Step 3: Property due diligence (DD)
Treat diligence as your risk filter. Before any deposit, your lawyer should verify the title deed (owner, parcel/lot, independent section if a flat, and annotations), screen encumbrances (mortgages, seizures, usufructs, project restrictions, pending litigations, construction servitudes), and check zoning/occupancy (lawful construction and the presence of an occupancy permit—iskan). Usage and management issues (co-op rules, HOA/aidat, any reserved developer rights) should be mapped, and the location’s eligibility confirmed (not in military or security zones and no district-quota issues). Red flags include off-plan units without robust developer guarantees, properties lacking occupancy permits, annotations limiting private use (e.g., tourism-residence restrictions), and seller-side tax or arrest liens.
Step 4: Valuation (compulsory)
Anchor the price with a compliant appraisal. Order a valuation report from a licensed firm; if you are seeking citizenship, make sure the appraiser is SPK-licensed. Confirm that the appraised value matches or exceeds your contractual price where program thresholds apply.
Step 5: Contracting and deposits
Let the contract reflect the deal you actually intend to close. Use a bilingual sale agreement that sets a clear payment schedule, delivery and fixtures, default and rescission rights, and—when needed—escrow or bank-letter mechanics. For project or staged purchases, build in milestones and penalties. If you cannot attend in person, issue a Power of Attorney to your lawyer (notarized and apostilled if executed abroad), and have counsel localize the Turkish formalities.
Step 6: Payment and Döviz Alım Belgesi (where applicable)
Pay through traceable banking channels and retain proof. Coordinate the bank transfer in the correct currency flow and keep official receipts. For citizenship cases, make sure the transfer evidence fully aligns with program checks and that documentation is preserved with the application file.
Step 7: Closing at the Tapu Office
Arrive with a complete, consistent file. If you do not speak Turkish, attend with a sworn interpreter. Submit the valuation report, tax numbers, photographs, any utility-related insurance numbers, and bank receipts (for citizenship purchases). After the final checks and fee payments, the officer issues the new title deed.
Step 8: Post-completion
Stabilize the asset and stay compliant. Transfer electricity, water, and gas accounts to your name. Obtain or update compulsory earthquake insurance (DASK), which is typically required for utility activation. Register for annual property tax and, if you plan to let the property, withhold and declare rental income tax in line with Turkish requirements.
Step 1: Start clean and prove it.
Confirm that the title is clean—no hidden liens, seizures, usufructs, pending lawsuits, or restrictive annotations. Have your counsel run a fresh registry extract and, if applicable, condominium/management confirmations so buyers can rely on the file without surprises.
Step 2: Provide a compliant valuation when the counterparty is foreign.
If the buyer is a foreign person or entity, a valuation report is mandatory for the transaction. Commission it from a licensed appraisal company (and SPK-licensed if the deal will be used for a citizenship application). Make sure the report will still be valid on the intended closing date.
Step 3: Align the payment trail with Tapu (and, if relevant, citizenship) requirements.
Agree early on banking channels and the evidence you will deliver (stamped transfer receipts, SWIFT messages, etc.). For citizenship-linked deals, ensure that every payment is traceable and that the deed will carry any required annotations (e.g., no-sale undertaking).
Step 4: Prepare habitation and technical documentation.
Collect occupancy permit (iskan), zoning/plan approvals, and any building/energy documents the buyer or registry may request. Clarify what fixtures and installations transfer with the property, and have building management dues (aidat) status ready to disclose.
Step 5: Get your taxes in order.
Coordinate tax compliance ahead of signing—capital gains timing, possible VAT exemptions, and any municipal dues. Align the declared sale value with the valuation and your tax reporting to avoid reconciliation issues post-closing.
While parties can contractually allocate most items, expect the following common cost components:
1) Under-declared sale price—align every figure. Never understate the purchase price. Keep the contract price, bank transfer receipts, and valuation perfectly consistent. Use escrow or bank letters to evidence the full amount. Under-declaration can trigger tax penalties and invalidate citizenship filings.
2) Unclear encumbrances—surface everything before money moves. Order a fresh Land Registry (Tapu) extract and review all annotations: mortgages, seizures, liens, usufructs, project-based restrictions, litigation notices, construction servitudes. Obtain payoff letters where needed and arrange for releases to be registered at closing.
3) Non-eligible location—pre-clear zones and quotas. Confirm the property is outside military/security zones and that district-level foreign ownership quotas are not exceeded. Get written confirmations early and include a walk-away clause if eligibility checks fail.
4) Developer risk (off-plan)—treat it like project finance. Require robust guarantees (e.g., bank guarantee/insurance), milestone-based payments into escrow, independent progress certificates, long-stop dates, and default remedies/penalties. Verify permits, occupancy trajectory, and the developer’s solvency; review any performance bonds.
5) Mismatched documentation—reconcile the file before Tapu. Ensure names, parcel/lot IDs, independent section numbers, and floor plans match across the Tapu records, municipal files, and valuation report. Fix discrepancies with updated plans or registry corrections before the closing window to avoid delays or refusal.
Q1: Can foreigners buy property in Turkey in 2025?
A- Yes, foreigners can purchase real estate in Turkey, subject to restrictions like no buys in military zones, a 30-hectare nationwide cap per person, and a 10% foreign ownership limit per district. A lawyer verifies eligibility early via the Land Registry and local authorities.
Q2: What is required for Turkish citizenship by real estate investment?
A- A minimum USD 400,000 purchase with a three-year no-sale commitment, traceable bank payments, and an SPK-licensed valuation report. This optional path grants citizenship upon compliance.
Q3: What are the key steps for foreigners buying property in Turkey?
A- Essential steps include obtaining a tax number, due diligence on title and encumbrances, mandatory valuation, bilingual contracting, bank payments, Tapu closing, and post-completion tasks like utility transfers and earthquake insurance.
Q4: What costs are involved in Turkish real estate transactions for foreigners?
A- Typical costs include a 4% title deed fee, valuation and notary fees, bank charges, legal fees, and taxes like annual property tax or capital gains. Parties can allocate these contractually.
Q5: How can foreigners avoid common risks when buying property in Turkey?
A- Mitigate risks by aligning all prices and documents, conducting thorough due diligence, pre-clearing locations and quotas, securing developer guarantees for off-plan buys, and reconciling files before closing.
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This article will help individuals, families, and investors in navigating the complexities of Turkey’s inheritance law, highlight the importance of strategic planning for equitable estate distribution, and explain the legal framework and individual rights in Turkish succession matters.
Inheritance in Turkey is primarily governed by the Turkish Civil Code, which regulates succession rights, estate distribution, and obligations of heirs. Unlike some common-law systems, Turkish law mandates reserved shares for close relatives, ensuring that certain heirs cannot be entirely disinherited.
The cornerstone of Heritage Law in Turkey is the principle of forced heirship. Children, spouses, and in some cases parents, have a legal right to a reserved portion of the estate, regardless of the deceased’s will.
Foreigners owning property or assets in Turkey are also subject to Turkish inheritance law. This makes it vital for international families and investors to obtain professional legal support.
The first step in navigating the complexities of Turkey’s inheritance law is determining the legal heirs. Turkish law divides heirs into groups:
First group: children and descendants.
Second group: parents and their descendants.
Third group: grandparents and extended family.
The surviving spouse always has a share, which varies depending on which group of heirs they inherit alongside.
While individuals can draft wills, the principle of forced heirship limits testamentary freedom. Legal advice is crucial to ensure wills are enforceable under Turkish law.
Without proactive measures, succession disputes can arise. Strategic planning for equitable estate distribution ensures that heirs receive fair shares while respecting legal requirements.
Drafting valid wills.
Preparing prenuptial agreements.
Structuring property ownership.
Setting up family companies or for asset management.
For families with international ties, estate planning should consider tax implications, dual inheritance regimes, and enforcement of foreign wills in Turkey.
Children are the primary heirs and cannot be entirely excluded due to forced heirship.
Spouses are entitled to a portion of the estate, often alongside children or other relatives.
If there are no children, parents and their descendants inherit alongside the spouse.
While the law restricts complete freedom, individuals retain the right to distribute the non-reserved portion of their estate through a will.
Disputes among heirs regarding valuation of property.
Cross-border inheritance issues when assets exist both in Turkey and abroad.
Debt liability, as heirs may also inherit the deceased’s debts.
Taxation and registration requirements during estate transfer.
Professional guidance ensures these challenges are resolved effectively.
Working with an experienced lawyer is crucial in succession matters. An English speaking lawyer in Turkey helps:
Draft wills that comply with Turkish law.
Represent heirs in disputes.
Manage cross-border estate transfers.
Provide legal strategies for fair distribution of assets.
Law firms like Ongur & Partners offer specialized services in contract law, litigation, and heritage law in Turkey, ensuring that clients receive both legal clarity and peace of mind.
Understanding heritage law in Turkey is essential for families and investors who want to secure their estates and protect heirs’ rights. By navigating the complexities of Turkey’s inheritance law with professional support, individuals can engage in strategic planning for equitable estate distribution and ensure compliance with the legal framework and individual rights in Turkish succession matters.
Professional guidance is not only advisable but often necessary in cross-border inheritance cases. By seeking assistance from a qualified contract and inheritance lawyer in Turkey, families can prevent disputes and achieve a fair and lawful estate distribution.
]]>This article explores the legal basis of contract law in Turkey, identifies the essential elements of a legally valid contract, discusses common types of contracts in Turkey, and examines how businesses can implement best practices for contract management in Turkey. We will also highlight the importance of working with a contract lawyer in Turkey and how professional consultancy services, such as those offered by Ongur & Partners, can help foreign and local businesses achieve compliance and security.
The Contract Law in Turkey refers to the body of rules that govern how agreements between parties are formed, executed, and enforced. It is primarily regulated by the Turkish Code of Obligations (TCO), which sets out the principles of obligations, rights, and remedies in contractual relationships.
The Contract Law in Turkey governs how agreements are formed, executed, and enforced. It provides the legal framework ensuring that parties are bound by their promises. Turkish law recognizes both written and oral contracts, although written form is strongly recommended for clarity and enforceability.
The primary source of contract law in Turkey is the Turkish Code of Obligations (TCO), complemented by the Turkish Commercial Code (TCC) for commercial contracts. International agreements and EU harmonization efforts also shape Turkey’s contract law landscape.
The legal basis of contract law in Turkey is rooted in the TCO, which is largely modeled on the Swiss Code of Obligations. It outlines the principles of contract validity, performance, and remedies for breach.
Turkish Civil Code: Governs family-related contracts and inheritance.
Turkish Commercial Code (TCC): Applies to commercial and corporate contracts.
Special laws: Regulate sector-specific agreements (employment, consumer protection, real estate).,
For a contract to be legally binding in Turkey, several essential elements of a legally valid contract must be present:
Mutual Consent – Both parties must agree willingly.
Capacity to Contract – Parties must have legal competence.
Lawful Subject Matter – The purpose of the contract must not violate Turkish law.
Definite Terms – Obligations and rights must be clearly stated.
Without these, the contract may be declared void or unenforceable.
Regulated by Turkish Labor Law, these agreements define rights and obligations between employers and employees.
Used for goods, services, and real estate. For immovable property, written form and registration are mandatory.
Both residential and commercial leases are highly regulated, especially concerning tenant protections.
Prominent in Turkey’s booming real estate and infrastructure sectors. They require detailed provisions on performance, delays, and liability.
Essential for companies entering the Turkish market, these regulate relationships between producers and distributors.
When a party breaches a contract, the potential result of any infringement of a contract may include:
Damages – Compensation for financial loss.
Specific Performance – Court orders to fulfill contractual obligations.
Termination of Contract – Ending the agreement legally.
Penalty Clauses – If pre-agreed, penalties may apply.
Parties are free to negotiate terms, provided they do not violate mandatory law.
Turkish law requires parties to act in good faith during both negotiation and execution.
Contracts, once validly signed, are binding unless declared null by a competent authority.
Under Turkish law, contracts that violate public order, morality, or mandatory rules are void. Examples include:
Contracts for illegal activities.
Agreements against public policy.
Contracts restricting personal freedoms.
A contract lawyer in Turkey plays a vital role in:
Drafting and reviewing contracts.
Ensuring compliance with Turkish law.
Representing clients in disputes.
Advising on cross-border agreements.
For foreign investors, an English speaking contract lawyer is particularly important to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings.
Turkey’s role as a bridge between Europe and Asia makes it a hub for international trade. International contracts and cross-border agreements in Turkey are common in sectors such as construction, finance, and technology. Key considerations include:
Choice of governing law.
Jurisdiction clauses.
Arbitration agreements for dispute resolution.
Foreign parties often face difficulties understanding complex legal terminology. Solution: Hire an English speaking lawyer.
Cross-border enforcement may require special procedures. Solution: Use arbitration in Turkey for enforceable awards.
Vague terms can cause disputes. Solution: Professional contract drafting and review services in Turkey.
Contract management in Turkey requires systematic handling of the entire contract lifecycle:
Drafting – Clear, legally compliant agreements.
Review – Identifying potential risks.
Execution – Ensuring obligations are performed.
Monitoring – Tracking deadlines and renewals.
Ongur & Partners provides contract drafting and review services in Turkey, ensuring:
Legal compliance.
Risk assessment.
Protection of client interests.
These services are particularly useful for multinational corporations entering Turkish markets.
Disputes often arise from:
Breach of payment terms.
Delivery delays.
Quality disagreements.
Resolution methods include:
Negotiation and Mediation.
Litigation in Turkish Courts.
Arbitration in Turkey for faster, confidential outcomes.
Contract law consultancy in Turkey helps businesses minimize risks, negotiate effectively, and comply with evolving legal standards. Law firms like Ongur & Partners specialize in providing tailored consultancy for international investors.
Professional contract law consultancy in Turkey provides businesses with:
Preventive legal advice.
Risk analysis.
Guidance on international standards.
Understanding and applying contract law in Turkey is critical for businesses and individuals. From identifying the essential elements of contracts to managing disputes and ensuring compliance, the role of a contract lawyer in Turkey is indispensable. With expert guidance, companies can ensure efficient contract management in Turkey, avoid disputes, and secure successful outcomes in both domestic and international business.
]]>The foundation of Turkish Inheritance Law is primarily laid down in the Turkish Civil Code. It regulates both statutory inheritance (legal heirs) and testamentary succession (inheritance based on a will). The law strikes a balance between testamentary freedom and the protection of close family members through the doctrine of forced heirship.
Some of the key pillars of the Turkish inheritance system are:
Equality among heirs: Heirs of the same category inherit equal shares.
Forced heirship: Certain family members (children, spouse, parents) cannot be entirely disinherited.
Freedom of will: Within the limits of reserved portions, the deceased may draft a will.
Public order and protection: Turkish inheritance law emphasizes fairness and family protection.
Continuity of ownership: Assets seamlessly transfer from the deceased to the heirs.
Protection of family: Children and spouse are considered indispensable heirs.
Legal framework for foreigners: International aspects are recognized, ensuring foreigners with assets in Turkey are also subject to Turkish law.
Children and grandchildren are the primary heirs. If children are deceased, their share passes to the grandchildren.
If there are no descendants, the parents of the deceased inherit. If the parents are deceased, their share passes to siblings.
Grandparents and their descendants come into play if there are no closer relatives.
The surviving spouse inherits along with every group of heirs. Their share varies depending on whether they inherit with descendants, parents, or more distant relatives.
Children benefit from reserved portions (forced heirship), meaning they cannot be disinherited completely.
If the deceased has no children, parents and siblings step in as statutory heirs.
The distribution of the estate in Turkey follows a clear statutory order:
If children exist, they inherit the majority.
If there are no descendants, parents and siblings inherit.
If no relatives remain, the estate eventually passes to the state.
Obtain the Death Certificate – Issued by the local civil registry office.
Apply for the Certificate of Inheritance (Veraset İlamı) – Issued by Turkish courts or notaries, officially confirming legal heirs.
Calculate and Pay Inheritance Tax – Obligatory within certain reporting periods.
Transfer the Title Deed (Tapu İntikali) – Register immovable property to the heirs’ names.
Register Other Inherited Assets – Including bank accounts, vehicles, shares, or businesses.
Consider Rejecting Inheritance if Liabilities Exist – Turkish law allows heirs to renounce inheritance if debts exceed assets.
The inheritance tax in Turkey varies according to the closeness of the relationship.
Spouses and children pay lower rates than distant relatives.
Foreigners inheriting assets in Turkey are also subject to the same tax regime.
Heirs must declare inherited assets within a specific timeframe.
Inaccurate reporting may result in penalties.
Under Turkish law, forced heirship restricts testamentary freedom. Reserved portions are statutory minimum shares allocated to certain heirs:
Children: 50% of their statutory share.
Spouse: 50% of their statutory share.
Parents: 25% of their statutory share.
Any will or disposition that infringes upon these shares can be challenged in court.
Must be in writing, signed, and dated.
Can be made before a notary, or handwritten by the testator.
Oral wills are valid only in extraordinary circumstances.
Wills cannot violate reserved portions.
Invalid wills can be annulled through inheritance litigation.
Intestate succession occurs when no valid will exists. In such cases, the estate is distributed entirely under statutory succession rules described above.
Foreign nationals with assets in Turkey and Turkish citizens with property abroad often face cross-border inheritance issues. Determining applicable law, recognition of foreign wills, and conflict of laws are key challenges.
Foreigners can own property in Turkey but with limitations:
Certain military zones and special regions are restricted.
Otherwise, foreigners can freely inherit property in Turkey.
Marriage contracts can significantly impact inheritance distribution, especially when spouses choose regimes other than the default “participation in acquired property.”
Turkey does not have trust law, but wills, usufruct rights, property regimes, and donation contracts are common estate planning tools.
Estate planning must consider Turkish inheritance tax, reporting obligations, and compliance with international treaties (such as double taxation agreements).
Challenges to wills,
Infringements on reserved portions,
Conflicts over management of undivided estates.
Courts may impose interim measures such as freezing bank accounts or preventing property sales until disputes are resolved.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Obtain death certificate |
| 2 | Apply for inheritance certificate (Veraset İlamı) |
| 3 | Pay inheritance tax |
| 4 | Transfer real estate title |
| 5 | Register other inherited assets |
| 6 | Consider rejecting inheritance if debts exceed assets |
Always verify deadlines for tax filings and court applications.
Engage an experienced inheritance lawyer in Turkey.
Secure translations and notarizations for foreign documents.
Consider estate planning early to avoid disputes.
Inheritance law in Turkey is highly complex, involving statutory rules, cross-border aspects, and tax implications. Professional legal assistance is therefore indispensable.
Ankara Office
Portakal Çiçeği Rezidans, Floor 9 No:43
Aziziye Mah. Pak. Sok., 06690 Çankaya / Ankara – Turkey
📞 Tel: +90 312 426 39 94
📠 Fax: +90 312 426 39 95
📱 WhatsApp: +90 532 707 51 13
🌐 www.ongurpartners.com
📧 [email protected]
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İtalyan hukukuna göre;
Gerçek kişiler (18 yaşını doldurmuş),
Yabancı yatırımcılar,
Mevcut şirketler,
yeni bir şirket kurabilir ya da mevcut bir şirkete ortak olabilir.
İtalya’da şirket kurmak, özellikle Türk yatırımcılar için önemli bir motivasyondur. Çünkü İtalya’da kurulan bir şirket üzerinden yatırımcı vizesi veya oturum izni almak mümkündür. Şirketin aktif şekilde faaliyet göstermesi, vergi ödemesi ve istihdam yaratması durumunda uzun dönem oturum kartına başvuru yapılabilir.
Şirket kurma maliyetleri, şirket türüne ve sermaye yapısına göre değişiklik gösterir. Genel olarak:
Limited şirket (SRL) için asgari sermaye: 10.000 € (bazı durumlarda 1 €’ya kadar düşürülebilir).
Anonim şirket (SPA) için asgari sermaye: 50.000 €.
Noter, ticaret odası kayıt ve danışmanlık masrafları eklenir.
Ortalama kurulum maliyeti 5.000 – 8.000 € arasında değişebilir.
Şirket kurma süreci ortalama 7–15 iş günü sürer. Ticaret odası kaydı, vergi numarası alınması ve banka hesabı açılması gibi işlemler tamamlandığında şirket faaliyete başlar.
Şirketin feshi ise daha uzun ve masraflı bir süreçtir. Fesih kararının alınması, borçların ödenmesi ve tasfiye işlemleri genellikle 6–12 ay sürebilir.
Asgari sermaye (genelde 10.000 €),
En az bir ortak,
Bir yönetici (yabancı olabilir),
İtalya’da resmi adres,
Noter huzurunda kuruluş sözleşmesi.
Ortakların sorumluluğu koydukları sermaye ile sınırlıdır.
Yabancıların ortak olmasında bir engel yoktur.
Yıllık finansal raporların Ticaret Odası’na sunulması zorunludur.
Tüm belgeler hazır olduğunda süreç ortalama 10 iş günü sürmektedir. Ancak yabancı belgelerin tercümesi ve noter onayı gibi işlemler süreyi uzatabilir.
Küçük ve orta ölçekli işletmeler için en uygun yapıdır. Ortakların sorumluluğu sınırlıdır.
Büyük ölçekli yatırımlar için tercih edilir. Halka arz edilebilir ve yüksek sermaye gerektirir.
En az iki ortak gereklidir. Ortaklardan biri sınırsız sorumluluğa sahiptir.
Küçük işletmeler ve girişimciler için uygundur. Ancak tüm sorumluluk girişimcinin üzerindedir.
Kurumlar Vergisi (IRES): %24
Bölgesel Üretim Vergisi (IRAP): %3.9 (bölgelere göre değişebilir)
KDV (IVA): %22 (standart oran)
Ayrıca çalışan istihdam eden şirketler için sosyal güvenlik primleri zorunludur.
Avrupa Birliği iç pazarına erişim,
Oturum ve vatandaşlık imkânı,
Güçlü tüketici pazarı,
Çifte vergilendirmeyi önleme anlaşmaları,
Türk yatırımcılar için güvenli ticaret ortamı.
İtalya’da şirket kuruluşu, Türk girişimciler için hem Avrupa pazarına açılma fırsatı hem de oturum ve vatandaşlık avantajı sağlayan stratejik bir adımdır. Doğru danışmanlık ile hem kurulum süreci hızlanır hem de maliyetler daha öngörülebilir hale gelir.
📧 [email protected]
İtalya’da alacak tahsilatı, Türk şirketlerinin İtalya’daki ticari faaliyetlerinden doğan ödenmeyen borçlarını, hukuki ve idari yollarla tahsil etme sürecidir. Özellikle ihracat – ithalat ilişkilerinde yaşanan ödeme sorunları, Türk yatırımcılar için ciddi risk oluşturur. Bu nedenle İtalya’da alacak takibi profesyonel destek gerektiren bir alandır.
Türkiye ve İtalya arasındaki ekonomik ilişkiler son yıllarda ciddi bir ivme kazanmıştır. İtalya, Türkiye’nin en büyük ticaret ortaklarından biridir. İthalat ve ihracat hacmindeki artış beraberinde İthalat ve İhracattan Kaynaklanan Alacak Borç ve Yönetimi sorunlarını da getirmektedir.
Uluslararası ticarette ödeme gecikmeleri veya tahsil edilemeyen borçlar, şirketler için ciddi riskler doğurur. Bu nedenle İtalya’da Borç ve Alacak Takibi mekanizmalarını doğru anlamak ve profesyonel destek almak hayati önem taşır.
Türkiye ile İtalya arasındaki ticaret hacmi her geçen yıl büyümektedir. İtalya, Türkiye’nin Avrupa’daki en güçlü ekonomik partnerlerinden biridir. Bu yoğun ticari ilişkiler, doğal olarak İtalya’da borç ve alacak takibi ihtiyacını doğurmaktadır.
Uluslararası ticaretin doğasında yer alan riskler, ödemelerin zamanında yapılmaması veya hiç yapılmaması sorununu beraberinde getirmektedir. Bu noktada ithalat ve ihracattan kaynaklanan alacak borç ve yönetimi, firmaların finansal sürdürülebilirliği açısından kritik bir konudur.
İtalya’da alacak tahsilatı süreci genellikle şu adımları içerir:
Talep Mektubu (İhtarname): Tahsilat süreci borçluya gönderilen resmi bir ihtarname ile başlar. Bu belge, borçluyu ödeme yapmaya davet eder. Çoğu zaman profesyonel şekilde hazırlanmış bir talep mektubu, davaya gerek kalmadan ödeme yapılmasını sağlar.
Hukuki İşlem: Eğer borçlu ödeme yapmazsa, dava süreci başlatılır. Bu aşamada İtalya’daki Türk Avukatlar devreye girer ve Türk şirketlerine hem dil hem de hukuk sistemine aşinalık avantajı sağlar.
Mahkeme Süreci: İtalyan mahkemelerinde açılan dava, borcun varlığı ve sözleşmenin ihlali gibi konularda delillerle desteklenir. Mahkeme kararı, alacağın icra yoluyla tahsiline zemin hazırlar.
İcra İşlemleri: Mahkeme kararının ardından, borçlunun malvarlığına el konularak alacağın tahsili sağlanır. Bu süreçte banka hesaplarına, taşınmazlara ve ticari varlıklara haciz uygulanabilir.
Ticari sözleşmelerde açık ödeme şartlarının yer alması,
Teminat mektupları veya banka garantilerinin kullanılması,
Uluslararası tahkim ve yetkili mahkeme seçiminde dikkatli olunması.
Borç ödenmediğinde hızlı hareket etmek, profesyonel bir hukuk bürosundan destek almak ve İtalya’da Borç ve Alacak Takibi Kapsamında Dikkat Edilmesi Gerekenler hakkında bilinçli davranmak tahsilat şansını artırır.
Dil bariyerinin aşılması,
Türk şirketlerinin iş yapış biçimine aşinalık,
Türk ve İtalyan hukuk sistemlerinin karşılaştırmalı değerlendirilmesi.
İtalya’da dava ve icra işlemleri belirli sürelerle sınırlıdır. Hak kaybı yaşamamak için sürelere dikkat edilmelidir.
Tahsilat süreçleri maliyetli olabilir. Bu nedenle profesyonel avukatlar masrafları önceden analiz ederek müvekkile risk raporu sunar.
Arabuluculuk ve uzlaşma yöntemleri, uzun dava süreçlerinin önüne geçebilir.
Senaryo 1: Türk ihracatçı İtalya’ya mal göndermiş ancak ödeme yapılmamış. Talep mektubu ile başlayan süreç, mahkeme kararıyla sonuçlanmış ve icra yoluyla tahsilat gerçekleşmiştir.
Senaryo 2: Türk yatırımcı, İtalya’da iş ortağıyla yaşadığı borç anlaşmazlığını arabuluculuk yoluyla çözmüş ve ticari ilişki korunmuştur.
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This guide explores the forms of intellectual property protection in Turkey, recent developments in Turkish Intellectual Property Law, and the procedures for obtaining protection for trademarks, copyrights, industrial designs, patents, and geographical indications.
Intellectual property law in Turkey offers comprehensive protection to creators, inventors, and business owners. The system aligns with international agreements such as the Paris Convention, Berne Convention, and TRIPS Agreement, guaranteeing that Turkey maintains international standards.
The Turkish Industrial Property Law No. 6769, enacted in 2017, consolidated various regulations into a single framework covering trademarks, industrial designs, patents, utility models, and geographical indications. This law strengthens the protection and enforcement mechanisms available to rightsholders.
The core legislation governing intellectual property law in Turkey includes:
Industrial Property Law No. 6769 (2017) – covers trademarks, patents, utility models, industrial designs, and geographical indications.
Law on Intellectual and Artistic Works No. 5846 – regulates copyrights and related rights.
Turkish Commercial Code – addresses unfair competition and trade secrets.
Civil Procedure Law and Criminal Law – establish enforcement procedures and penalties for infringement.
Turkey is also a member of WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) and has ratified many international treaties to harmonize its legal framework with global practices.
Trademarks are one of the most valuable assets for businesses. Under Turkish Intellectual Property Law, trademarks may consist of words, logos, colors, sounds, or even three-dimensional shapes that distinguish goods and services.
Key features of trademark protection in Turkey:
Registration with the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TÜRKPATENT) is mandatory.
Protection period: 10 years, renewable indefinitely.
Enforcement: Civil and criminal actions can be initiated against infringement.
Well-known trademarks enjoy broader protection under international treaties.
Copyright protection in Turkey falls under Law No. 5846 on Intellectual and Artistic Works. Unlike trademarks, copyright protection arises automatically upon the creation of the work, without the need for registration.
Protected works include:
Literary and artistic works
Musical compositions
Films and broadcasts
Computer programs and databases
Architectural works
Duration of protection:
Life of the author + 70 years.
For corporate works: 70 years from the date of publication.
Industrial design protection ensures the unique appearance of products is safeguarded. Designs may include the shape, form, color, or surface texture of goods.
Registration is mandatory for protection.
Protection period: 5 years, renewable up to 25 years.
Prevents third parties from copying or imitating product designs.
Patents and utility models protect inventions and technical solutions.
Patents: Granted for new inventions that involve an inventive step and are industrially applicable. Duration: 20 years.
Utility Models: Protect technical solutions with a shorter innovation cycle. Duration: 10 years.
Both require registration with TÜRKPATENT.
Excluded subject matter includes discoveries, mathematical methods, and inventions contrary to public order.
Geographical indications (GIs) identify products originating from a specific region, known for unique qualities or reputation. Geographical indication and designation of origin is an industrial property right describing a product originated from any region or attributable to any region due to its quality, reputation or other characteristics.
Fruit, stone, mine of any region may be different from those in the other regions or any carpet, rug, fabric, tile etc. may have attained reputation for whatsoever is the reason. Use of the name of the region with such products may be perceived by the consumers as their distinctive features from those with similar nature. The consumers may prefer the products sold with the name of such regions in lieu of the other products due to the fact that they rely on the name of the region.
In this context, geographical indications and designations of origin are dimensioned in the manner that they are shaped, packaged, purchased and sold through the traditional knowledge and they are the signs of guarantee evidencing the quality of the product, traditional production method and geographical origin.
Registration is required to secure protection.
Prevents misuse of regional product names.
Contributes to the promotion of Turkey’s cultural and agricultural heritage.
The Turkish IP system has undergone significant reforms in recent years:
2017 Industrial Property Law No. 6769 unified IP legislation into a single framework.
Introduction of mediation as a pre-condition in certain IP disputes.
Online application system launched by TÜRKPATENT to simplify registration procedures.
Strengthening of enforcement measures against counterfeiting and piracy.
Increasing participation in international treaties, including the Hague Agreement for Industrial Designs.
These reforms reflect Turkey’s commitment to modernizing its IP framework and aligning with EU standards.
Steps for obtaining trademark protection in Turkey:
Conduct a trademark search to avoid conflicts.
File an application with TÜRKPATENT, including representation of the mark and goods/services classification.
Examination by the office for distinctiveness and compliance.
Publication in the Trademark Bulletin for opposition.
Registration if no objections are raised.
Steps for industrial design protection:
Submit application to TÜRKPATENT, including drawings or photographs of the design.
Office conducts a formal examination.
Registration is published in the Official Industrial Design Bulletin.
Protection lasts for 5 years, renewable up to 25 years.
Steps for patent registration:
File application with a detailed description, claims, and drawings.
Formal examination by TÜRKPATENT.
Publication after 18 months.
Substantive examination for novelty and inventive step.
Grant of patent if requirements are met.
Patents are valid for 20 years, subject to payment of annual fees.
Unlike other IP rights, copyright protection does not require registration. However, voluntary registration is possible for evidentiary purposes.
Steps for safeguarding copyrights:
Creation of the work (protection arises automatically).
Optional registration with the General Directorate of Copyright.
Enforcement through civil or criminal actions against infringement.
Brand Protection: Ensures exclusive rights over trademarks and prevents counterfeit goods.
Innovation Incentives: Patents encourage research and development.
Market Value: IP rights increase business valuation and attract investors.
International Trade: Compliance with global treaties supports exports and partnerships.
Businesses operating in Turkey should work with an experienced Turkish intellectual property lawyer to ensure their rights are properly protected and enforced.
Turkish Intellectual Property Law offers a modern, internationally compliant system for the protection of intellectual creations. From trademarks to copyrights, patents to industrial designs, the legal framework is robust and continuously evolving.
For companies, entrepreneurs, and creatives seeking to safeguard their rights, navigating the system requires expert legal guidance. Ongur & Partners, an international law firm based in Ankara, provides comprehensive legal services in intellectual property law and represents clients before TÜRKPATENT and Turkish courts.
Ongur & Partners International Law Firm
Portakal Çiçeği Rezidans Kat:9 No:43 Aziziye Mah. Pak. Sok. 06690
Çankaya/Ankara
Tel: +90 (312) 426 39 94
Whether you’re operating a business in Istanbul, Ankara, or engaging in cross-border activities involving Turkish markets, understanding competition law in Turkey is essential. The legislation reflects modern global standards while incorporating unique aspects of Turkey’s legal tradition. The article also discusses how to partner with leading legal professionals such as Ongur & Partners, one of the most reputable international law firms in Turkey.
The Turkish legal regime addressing competition is rooted in a combination of national legislation and international commitments. The most notable legal instruments include:
The Turkish Commercial Code (TCC)
The Law on the Protection of Competition (Law No. 4054)
The Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property
EU Harmonization Policies
Turkish Competition Authority (Rekabet Kurumu) Guidelines and Decisions
These laws and instruments collectively shape Turkey’s competition law landscape.
Unfair competition in Turkey is subject to regulation through various legal instruments, including:
The Turkish Commercial Code (TCC):
Articles on unfair competition under the TCC prohibit misleading advertising, brand imitation, false product information, and comparative advertising that creates confusion or damages the reputation of a competitor.
Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property:
Turkey, as a signatory, has a legal obligation to protect both domestic and foreign entrepreneurs from unfair competition.
Competition Law (Law No. 4054):
This legislation focuses on market dominance, anti-competitive agreements, and merger controls.
By combining local legislation with international frameworks, Turkey ensures a balanced and effective competition regime.
One of the core features of competition law in Turkey is the identification and regulation of prohibited conduct and the conditions under which exemptions may be granted.
The following behaviors are strictly forbidden under Article 4 of the Competition Law:
Fixing Prices or Conditions: Agreements between undertakings to set prices or restrict terms are per se illegal.
Market Sharing or Customer Allocation: Dividing customers or regions is a violation of fair competition.
Limiting Production or Supply: Agreements to restrict outputs or artificially limit market availability are unlawful.
Boycotts and Collective Refusals to Deal: These practices are categorized as coordinated anti-competitive actions.
Discrimination Among Partners: Applying different conditions for similar transactions is considered abuse.
Tying Arrangements: Requiring the purchase of an unrelated product/service as a condition is unlawful.
However, exemptions to these prohibitions may be granted if the agreement:
Promotes efficiency or technical progress
Provides benefits to consumers
Does not eliminate competition in a significant part of the market
Restricts competition only to the extent necessary
Such exemptions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Turkish Competition Authority (TCA) and may require pre-approval or post-analysis depending on the circumstances.
Abuse of dominance is regulated under Article 6 of the Competition Law and refers to behaviors by companies that hold significant market power and use it unfairly.
Unfair Pricing: Setting excessively high or predatory low prices
Exclusive Agreements: Forcing exclusivity on distributors or retailers
Refusal to Supply: Unjustifiably denying access to essential inputs or services
Tying or Bundling: Making the sale of one product conditional on another
Loyalty Discounts: Offering rebates aimed at excluding competitors
Dominant position itself is not unlawful, but its abuse is. Companies must be careful to operate within ethical and legal standards once they achieve market leadership.
Mergers and acquisitions in Turkey are scrutinized closely due to their potential impact on market concentration and competition.
Under the Communiqué No. 2010/4, a merger or acquisition must be notified to the Turkish Competition Authority if:
The combined turnover of the parties exceeds 750 million TRY, and
The Turkish turnover of at least two parties each exceeds 250 million TRY.
Merger and acquisition transactions include full or partial control transfers, joint ventures, or integration between independent businesses.
Transactions not notified in time can be deemed null and subject to heavy administrative fines. Firms are encouraged to work with expert competition lawyers to ensure proper filing and clearance.
Pre-Notification Assessment: Informal consultations with the authority to determine whether notification is required.
Filing of Notification: Submission of relevant documents, financials, and market analysis.
Phase I Review: Initial review, which takes up to 30 days.
Phase II Review (if needed): Deeper analysis including stakeholder feedback and competitive impact assessment.
Final Decision: The authority may approve, conditionally approve, or block the transaction.
Clearances procedures are time-sensitive and require precise legal and economic arguments.
The Turkish Competition Authority has wide-ranging investigative powers. These include:
Raids and On-Site Inspections
Document Seizures
Witness and Executive Interviews
Requests for Market Data
Imposition of Administrative Fines
Interim Measures and Structural Remedies
Competitors
Consumers
Public institutions
NGOs and associations
Anonymous complaints are also possible through the TCA’s online platform.
Engaging with an experienced competition law firm can make the difference between a proactive resolution and a costly legal challenge.
With a long-standing reputation and global recognition, Ongur & Partners International Law Firm is ideally positioned to guide clients through every dimension of competition law in Turkey. Their expertise includes:
Merger Notifications & M&A Clearance
Defending Investigations by the Competition Authority
Advising on Vertical and Horizontal Agreements
Providing Legal Opinions on Dominance Issues
Assisting with Exemption Applications
Competition Litigation and Damage Claims
As a full-service law firm based in Ankara and operating globally, Ongur & Partners provides both strategic insight and legal excellence.
A competition lawyer in Turkey serves as both a legal advisor and strategic partner for businesses navigating the intricacies of antitrust laws. Their core responsibilities span both preventive compliance and reactive defense strategies.
The competition lawyer evaluates current business practices such as pricing models, distribution systems, exclusivity agreements, and joint ventures for potential legal exposure. By identifying risk areas early, they prevent violations before they happen.
During mergers and acquisitions, the competition lawyer determines whether the transaction meets notification thresholds under Turkish law. If required, they prepare and file merger notifications and handle all correspondence with the Turkish Competition Authority.
In cases where a company is subject to investigation, the competition lawyer prepares a defense strategy, gathers evidence, and represents the client in all procedural stages. This may include responding to requests for information, attending hearings, and negotiating settlements.
Legal experts scrutinize agreements between competitors, suppliers, and customers to ensure they do not contain anti-competitive clauses. This includes reviewing exclusivity, rebate systems, non-compete clauses, and territorial restrictions.
An effective competition lawyer also leads corporate training sessions and helps implement internal compliance systems that educate management and employees about relevant rules.
A competition lawyer’s expertise must encompass a wide variety of legal domains within Turkish and international antitrust frameworks.
Horizontal agreements (between competitors) and vertical agreements (between suppliers and buyers) are highly regulated in Turkey. Lawyers must ensure that:
No price-fixing or production-limiting behavior exists.
Distribution agreements do not lead to market foreclosure.
Resale price maintenance clauses are avoided.
A key area of expertise is identifying and avoiding behavior that constitutes abuse of market dominance, such as:
Predatory pricing
Unjustified refusal to deal
Exclusivity practices
Excessive pricing
Lawyers help firms assess whether they hold a dominant position and, if so, how to avoid infringing Article 6 of the Turkish Competition Law.
Competition lawyers manage merger control filings, which involves:
Conducting economic analyses of market shares
Preparing notification forms
Liaising with the Competition Authority to receive clearance
Defending the transaction if Phase II investigations are triggered
Bid rigging is a serious offense in Turkey. Competition lawyers assist clients by:
Auditing bid preparation processes
Ensuring no collusive behavior occurs
Representing companies facing allegations of rigged tenders
Modern antitrust enforcement increasingly focuses on algorithms, big data, and online platforms. Lawyers with digital market expertise help companies:
Comply with data-sharing rules
Avoid collusion via pricing algorithms
Understand behavioral remedies proposed by the TCA
The Turkish Competition Authority (TCA) has the power to impose significant administrative penalties for violations of Law No. 4054. A competition lawyer helps prevent these through a combination of legal and operational strategies.
Before initiating any structural or strategic transaction, businesses should request a full legal audit by a competition lawyer. This helps in identifying potential red flags related to market behavior or contract clauses.
In complex or borderline cases, the company may voluntarily notify the TCA about a transaction or agreement. This signals transparency and may mitigate risk.
Lawyers implement company-wide programs including:
Periodic training sessions
Certification processes for employees
Written compliance manuals
Anonymous reporting systems for internal whistleblowing
Competition lawyers also help companies audit employee communications to ensure internal emails do not suggest unlawful coordination or intent, which can be used as evidence in TCA investigations.
Firms often conduct internal simulations of dawn raids (surprise inspections) to prepare staff. This practice is guided by lawyers to ensure lawful cooperation without self-incrimination.
The TCA regularly investigates and penalizes companies across sectors such as telecom, energy, pharmaceuticals, retail, and transportation.
In 2024, several e-commerce companies were fined up to 2% of their annual turnover for using pricing algorithms that indirectly coordinated market prices.
In 2023, a cement cartel was exposed, and companies faced collective fines of over 100 million TRY.
A leading automotive importer was penalized for imposing resale price maintenance on dealers.
Administrative fines in Turkey are calculated based on:
Nature of the violation (e.g., agreement vs. abuse of dominance)
Duration of the infringement
Size and turnover of the undertaking
Degree of cooperation with the investigation
Base fines typically start from 0.5% and can go up to 10% of the company’s annual gross revenue from the previous financial year.
To illustrate the value of legal expertise, consider a case involving a multinational electronics company investigated for alleged resale price maintenance. The company hired a local competition lawyer with deep knowledge of Turkish antitrust law.
Preliminary analysis showed no written agreement but only informal distributor pressure.
Evidence was collected showing the distributor had discretion over pricing.
The lawyer presented a compliance policy that discouraged RPM practices.
During oral hearings, the lawyer challenged the legal interpretation of indirect coercion.
The TCA ultimately closed the investigation without imposing administrative penalties, highlighting how proactive and informed legal strategy can protect businesses.
When selecting a competition lawyer in Turkey, companies should consider:
Experience with the Turkish Competition Authority
Successful track record in similar cases
Multilingual capabilities, especially for international transactions
Deep economic understanding for merger filings and market analysis
Quick response time, particularly during dawn raids or deadlines
Top law firms such as Ongur & Partners have demonstrated consistent success in managing both preventive compliance and high-stakes investigations.
Ongur & Partners International Law Firm
📍 Address: Portakal Çiçeği Rezidans, Kat:9 No:43, Aziziye Mah. Pak. Sok., 06690 Çankaya / Ankara – Turkey
📞 Phone: +90 312 426 39 94
📠 Fax: +90 312 426 39 95
📱 Mobile: +90 532 707 51 13
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.ongurpartners.com
You can also reach them via WhatsApp for fast consultation, especially if you’re a foreign investor dealing with cross-border transactions.
The importance of competition law in Turkey cannot be overstated. It not only safeguards economic freedoms but also ensures that innovation, quality, and consumer rights thrive. Whether you’re dealing with prohibited actions, seeking exemptions, or navigating a complex merger transaction, understanding the competition legal environment is a must.
Working with an international law firm like Ongur & Partners gives clients a significant advantage in navigating complex procedures, defending legal rights, and maintaining compliance with Turkish and international competition norms.
By staying ahead of regulatory changes and leveraging expert legal guidance, businesses can thrive in one of the most dynamic markets in the region.
]]>In 2025, Turkish banks have streamlined their onboarding processes, offering multilingual support, online pre-registration, and specialized “expat desks.” However, navigating local regulations and documentation requirements can still be challenging without a roadmap. This guide explains every step—from eligibility and hidden pitfalls to required paperwork and FAQs—so you can open your Turkish bank account smoothly.
Yes, foreigners can open a bank account in Turkey. Turkish banking law places few restrictions on non-residents, and major banks such as İşbank, Garanti BBVA, Akbank, and DenizBank cater specifically to international clients. However, there are some nuances to understand:
Branch-by-Branch Variations
Policies sometimes differ between branches of the same bank. A central Istanbul branch may accept scanned documents in advance, whereas a suburban branch insists on original notarized papers.
Strict “Know Your Customer” (KYC) Checks
Turkey’s anti-money-laundering regulations demand rigorous identity verification. A simple typo on your application can trigger multiple callbacks.
Limited English-Speaking Staff
Even in major cities, not every branch has fully bilingual staff. Plan to bring a Turkish-speaking friend or use the bank’s online chat for clarifications.
No, a residence permit is not strictly required to open a basic personal bank account. You can use a valid passport and tourist visa or e-visa. That said:
Some Banks Require It for premium accounts, mortgages, or corporate banking services.
Work Permit Holds Weight: Presenting a work permit or residence permit can speed up processing, unlock higher transaction limits, and waive certain fees.
If you only hold a short-term tourist visa, check in advance whether your chosen bank accepts non-resident applications.
Before visiting a branch, gather all essential documents for opening a bank account in Turkey. Missing or improperly authenticated paperwork is the most common cause of delays.
Valid Passport
Original plus one photocopy of all relevant pages (photo, visa stamps).
Turkish Tax Identification Number (Vergi Kimlik Numarası)
Obtainable at any Tax Office within minutes; necessary for account linkage to the Turkish tax system.
Proof of Address
Recent utility bill, rental contract, or residence permit showing your Turkish address. Some banks accept hotel or Airbnb confirmation for non-residents.
Contact Information
Active Turkish mobile number (preferred) or international number.
Email address for e-banking registration.
Employment or Income Proof (for certain account tiers)
Work contract, payslips, or letter from employer.
Residence Permit or Work Permit (if available)
Speeds up onboarding and unlocks additional services.
Power of Attorney (if applying via agent)
Notarized, apostilled, and sworn-translated if you cannot attend in person.
Follow these nine steps to open and fully activate your Turkish bank account as an expat:
Assess Your Needs: Do you need multi-currency accounts, investment services, or simply a debit card to pay rents and utilities?
Compare Fees and Rates: Look at account maintenance fees, ATM withdrawal charges, international transfer rates, and FX margins.
Check Branch/Online Capabilities: Some banks excel in online banking and have minimal-fee international wire transfers; others maintain more extensive branch networks.
Visit the Local Tax Office with your passport and address proof.
Fill Out the Form for Yabancılar Vergi Kimlik Numarası.
Receive Your Number instantly on a printed certificate; no fee.
Ensure you have:
Passport + photocopy
Tax ID certificate
Address proof
Employment/income proof (if requested)
Residence or work permit (optional)
Verify branch-specific requirements on the bank’s website or by phone.
Make an Appointment if possible; walk-ins may face long waits.
Fill Out the Account Opening Form in person.
Submit Documents for verification; be prepared for KYC questions about your source of funds and banking history.
Sign the Contract and select your account type (individual, joint, corporate).
Register for e-Banking: The branch will issue a User ID and temporary password.
Download the Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android—register using your credentials and phone number.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication for added security.
Order On the Spot: Many banks issue debit cards instantly with an embossed name.
Credit Card Approvals: May require additional income proof and a credit-check period of 1–2 weeks.
Activate Your Card via ATM, phone, or online portal.
Monthly Maintenance Fees: Some banks waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance.
ATM Withdrawal Limits: Domestic vs. international daily limits; fees vary by card and network.
Transfer Charges: Compare SWIFT fees vs. local remittance services like Wise or Revolut.
Address Changes: Report within 30 days to avoid account restrictions.
Contact Info Updates: Ensure your phone and email are current for OTPs and alerts.
Document Renewals: Resubmit updated residence permits or passports before expiry.
Corporate Accounts: Register a company bank account using your personal Tax ID and company registration documents.
Invest in Turkish Markets: Access BIST (Borsa Istanbul) trading platforms through online brokerage linked to your bank account.
Real-Estate Transactions: Use your account to deposit down payments and receive rental income without hidden FX charges.
Even with thorough preparation, expats still encounter hurdles. Here are the top four issues and how to overcome them:
Challenge: Forms and agreements are mostly in Turkish; staff may not speak fluent English.
Solution:
Use banks with dedicated expat desks (e.g., Garanti BBVA’s Global Banking).
Bring a bilingual friend or hire a local interpreter for your appointment.
Use branch-based “international banking” hotlines that offer English support.
Challenge: Some small tax offices aren’t familiar with foreign applications.
Solution:
Visit a larger district office in major cities like Istanbul or Izmir.
Bring printed instructions or a short note in Turkish explaining the process.
Engage a local accountant or lawyer to apply on your behalf via PoA.
Challenge: Inconsistent account-opening requirements across branches.
Solution:
Call multiple branches in advance to confirm lists of required documents.
Use online pre-application tools many banks now offer to schedule and prepare for your visit.
Challenge: Due to international sanctions, some banks restrict accounts for nationals of certain countries.
Solution:
Research bank-specific country lists on their compliance pages.
If necessary, open an account at a bank known for broader acceptance (often public-sector banks like VakıfBank).
Generally no—most banks require in-person identity verification. However, some digital banks (e.g., PTB, Insha) allow full remote onboarding via mobile app biometric checks, though their services may be limited compared to traditional banks.
No, a valid passport and Turkish Tax ID are sufficient for a basic personal account. A residence or work permit becomes mandatory only for higher-tier accounts, credit-card applications, and corporate banking.
Yes. Major banks offer FX accounts in USD, EUR, GBP, and other major currencies. These accounts can simplify international transfers and hedge currency risk.
High SWIFT Fees: Often USD 20–50 per transfer.
Exchange-Rate Margins: Banks may add 2–4% on top of the mid-market rate.
Regulatory Delays: Transfers from sanctioned jurisdictions may face additional scrutiny.
Workaround: Use licensed remittance providers or currency-exchange platforms integrated with your Turkish FX account.
Yes. Foreign-owned companies, branches, and liaison offices can open corporate accounts. You’ll need company registration documents, share certificates, board resolutions, and a corporate Tax ID.
Personal Account (In-Branch): 1–2 hours for basic accounts.
Online Banking Activation: Same day or next business day.
Corporate Account Setup: 3–5 business days due to additional compliance checks.
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A Turkish Tax Number (Vergi Kimlik Numarası) is a unique, ten-digit identification code issued by the Turkish Revenue Administration (Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı). It performs several critical functions:
Official Identification: Similar to a Social Security Number in the U.S. or a National Insurance Number in the U.K., it uniquely identifies individuals and entities for all tax-related purposes.
Required for Transactions: Banks mandate it to open accounts; property registries require it for real estate purchases; utility companies use it to set up service contracts.
Tax Compliance: It links your income, deductions, and filings in the Turkish tax system. Without it, you cannot file tax returns or claim withholding-tax refunds.
Regulatory Reporting: Employers use it to report payroll taxes; financial institutions use it for suspicious-activity reporting under anti-money-laundering rules.
In short, the Turkish Tax Number is the gateway to legal and financial life in Turkey, making it among the most important identifiers for any foreigner residing or doing business here.
The requirement for a Turkish Tax Number extends to a broad spectrum of individuals and entities:
Non-Resident Investors: Opening brokerage accounts or purchasing government bonds.
Foreign Homebuyers: Registering property under your name in Turkey’s land registry (Tapu).
Expats and Long-Term Residents: Paying rental or property taxes, enrolling in social security, or opening utility services.
Self-Employed Foreign Professionals: Freelancers, consultants, and contractors invoicing Turkish clients.
Foreign-Owned Companies: Branch offices or liaison offices must hold tax numbers for corporate filings.
Specifically, foreigners in Turkey—whether on a residence permit, work visa, or tourist visa planning any financial transaction—must obtain a tax number. Even a short-term business trip requiring hotel bookings, vehicle leases, or co-working workspace agreements often triggers the need for this identifier.
Before you roll up your sleeves and head to the Tax Office, gather the following pre-application requirements to ensure a smooth process.
Your valid passport is the cornerstone document. It must:
Be unexpired at the time of application.
Contain an identity page with your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number.
Have at least two blank pages (some offices stamp a copy; others require the original for verification).
Bring a clear photocopy of the passport’s photo and information page. Some Tax Offices will retain the copy; others will simply verify your original and return it. Regardless, having crisp A4-size copies prevents delays.
Prepare:
Local Address: Even if temporary (hotel, Airbnb), you must show where official correspondence can reach you.
Phone Number: A Turkish mobile number is ideal, but international numbers are accepted.
Email Address: Ensure it is active and checked regularly for confirmation messages.
If your passport is in a non-Latin script or if local officials doubt its authenticity, you may need:
A sworn translation (yeminli tercüman) of the passport into Turkish.
Notarized certification of the translation, although most Tax Offices accept translations directly from authorized translators.
For those unable to appear in person:
A Power of Attorney (PoA) authorizing a trusted representative—lawyer, accountant, or business partner—to apply on your behalf.
Must be notarized in your home country, apostilled (if you’re from a Hague-Convention country), and sworn-translated into Turkish.
With documents in hand, choose your application method. Turkey offers in-person and online avenues.
Visiting the Local Tax Office (Vergi Dairesi) is the traditional route:
Locate Your Jurisdiction: Find the Tax Office responsible for your registered address. Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir each have multiple offices, so use the Revenue Administration’s online locator.
Queue and Form Filling: Take a ticket, then complete the “Foreign Tax Number Application Form” (Yabancılar Vergi Kimlik Numarası Başvuru Formu).
Document Verification: Submit passport, copy, address proof, and PoA (if applicable).
Issuance: The civil servant generates your ten-digit tax number on the spot, printing a certificate instantly.
If you hold a reliable electronic signature (e-İmza) or Mobile Signature, you can apply via the Revenue Administration’s Interactive Tax Office (İnteraktif Vergi Dairesi) portal:
Register for an account using your e-İmza credentials.
Select “Apply for Foreign Tax Number.”
Upload scanned passport photo page, address proof, and translator’s certificate (if non-Latin script).
Submit the form; you receive a confirmation email.
Download your tax-number certificate as a PDF within minutes.
Visa Type: Tourist visas are sufficient for tax-number applications; you do not need a residence permit.
Multiple Tax Numbers: Avoid applying multiple times—this can lead to duplicate records and confusion.
Family Members: Spouses and dependents may apply together but must each submit separate forms and copies.
One of the advantages for foreigners is speed and cost transparency.
In-Person: Typically same day—you walk out with your Tax Number Certificate in under an hour.
Online: Generally instant, with PDF issuance within a few minutes of successful submission.
No Application Fee: The Turkish Revenue Administration does not charge an application fee for foreigners.
Translator and Notary Fees: If you require document translation or PoA legalization, budget TRY 200–500 depending on your location and translator.
Courier or Embassy Fees: If documents must be shipped for legalization, consider those additional costs.
Even straightforward processes can stall if you fall into common pitfalls. Here’s how to sidestep them:
Incorrect Scans: Upload clear, legible scans—blurry or skewed images often trigger rejections.
File Format Mismatch: The portal accepts JPEG or PDF up to 2 MB. Converting to PNG or exceeding size limits can block submission.
Digital Signature Errors: Ensure your e-İmza certificate is valid and matches the applicant’s identity details exactly.
No Proof of Address: Even hotel reservations printed with your name suffice.
Expired Passport: Offices will reject passports not valid for at least six months.
Unapostilled PoA: If applying by proxy, verify apostille requirements in advance to avoid cross-border delays.
Once you obtain your Turkish Tax Number, it unlocks a host of essential transactions.
Opening a Bank Account: Turkish banks require the tax number to open TRY or foreign-currency accounts.
Purchasing Property: Land‐registry (Tapu) offices record your tax number on title deeds.
Utility Contracts: Electricity, water, internet, and mobile-phone service providers register your tax number for billing and tax-reporting purposes.
Invoicing Clients: Your tax number must appear on every invoice, whether B2B or B2C.
Filing Tax Returns: Even as a non-resident, if you have Turkish-source income (rental, dividends), you file annual returns referencing your number.
Social-Security Registration: Employers use it when enrolling you or your employees with SGK (Social Security Institution).
Change of Address: Notify the Tax Office within 30 days of any change—failure can result in missed notices or fines.
Name Changes: If you legally change your name (marriage, civil status), update your tax-number record with certified documentation.
Deceased Status: For estate-settlement purposes, executors must inform the Tax Office of a foreign national’s death to close the record.
Q1: How long does it take to get a Turkish Tax Number?
Answer: In-person applications usually yield same-day issuance; online applications can be instantaneous if your e-İmza is properly configured.
Q2: Do I need a residence permit to apply?
Answer: No. Any valid passport (tourist, business, or residence visa) suffices; residence permits are only needed for subsequent residence-based services.
Q3: Can I use the same tax number for multiple purposes?
Answer: Yes. One number applies across banking, real-estate, invoicing, and tax filing—ensure you reference it consistently.
Q4: What if I lose my Tax Number Certificate?
Answer: Visit any Tax Office to request a duplicate printout—bring your passport and original number to retrieve a new copy.
Q5: Can I change my tax number if I move cities?
Answer: No. Tax numbers are nationwide and permanent. You only need to update your address on the existing record, not acquire a new number.
By following this Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners Applying for a Turkish Tax Number, you can minimize friction, avoid common mistakes, and obtain your number swiftly:
Gather Documents in Advance: Passport, address proof, translations, and PoA (if needed).
Choose Your Application Method: In-person or online—both are free and fast.
Verify Digital Signature Settings: If applying online, test your e-İmza on the portal beforehand.
Double-Check Scans: Ensure clarity and correct file formats to prevent rejections.
Keep Records Updated: Notify the Tax Office of address and name changes promptly.
Leverage Professional Support: A local accountant or lawyer can streamline translation, PoA legalization, and portal registration.
Armed with your Turkish Tax Number, you unlock full participation in Turkey’s financial ecosystem—whether you’re a foreign investor, expatriate professional, or property owner. Follow these steps, and your experience will be as seamless as any local’s. Good luck!
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