Foreigner Law: Legal Support for Foreigners and Businesses in Turkey

Foreigner Law: Legal Support for Foreigners and Businesses in Turkey. Turkey continues to attract thousands of foreigners each year thanks to its dynamic economy, rich culture, and strategic location. Whether you are an individual planning to reside in Turkey or a company aiming to expand operations here, navigating the legal landscape is essential. This guide provides detailed insights into foreigner law: legal support for foreigners and businesses in Turkey, covering everything from Turkish citizenship to tax obligations, company establishment, and more.

Legal Services for Foreigners

Legal services for foreigners in Turkey encompass a broad range of support mechanisms. From immigration and residency to marriage, real estate, or business law, foreign nationals often require guidance to comply with Turkish legal frameworks. Engaging a qualified legal team ensures a smooth and secure transition into the Turkish legal system.

Common Legal Areas for Foreigners

• Turkish citizenship applications
• Visa and residence procedures
• Real estate acquisition and property law
• Family law: marriage, divorce, and inheritance
• Commercial law for foreign investors
• Taxation and financial advisory

Our firm offers comprehensive legal advice and services for foreigners in Turkey through multilingual lawyers who understand the complexities of Turkish and international law.

Turkish Citizenship

Turkish citizenship is available to foreigners who meet specific legal criteria. The acquisition of citizenship can be achieved through multiple pathways, depending on the applicant’s background, investment, or residency status.

First – Turkish Citizenship by Investment

One of the most popular options is Turkish citizenship by investment. Eligible foreigners can acquire citizenship by investing in real estate worth at least $400,000 USD or depositing a minimum of $500,000 USD in a Turkish bank for three years. This route offers a fast-track process (typically 3–6 months) and includes family members.

Second – Obtaining Turkish Citizenship by Proving Ottoman or Turkish Origins

Individuals who can prove descent from Ottoman or Turkish lineage may apply for citizenship based on ethnic and historical ties. This often applies to nationals from former Ottoman territories who can provide genealogical evidence or ancestral documents.

Third – Obtaining Turkish Citizenship Through Permanent Residence in Turkey

Obtaining Turkish citizenship through permanent residence in Turkey requires at least five years of uninterrupted legal residency, with the applicant showing financial stability, no criminal record, and integration into Turkish society. Language proficiency and familiarity with Turkish culture are assessed.

Fourth – Turkish Citizenship Through Marriage

Turkish citizenship through marriage can be obtained by foreigners married to Turkish citizens for a minimum of three years. Applicants must demonstrate the marriage is genuine and not solely for citizenship purposes. Any suspicion of fraudulent marriage may result in denial.

Residence in Turkey

Residence in Turkey is regulated under the Foreigners and International Protection Law. Foreigners can apply for various types of residence permits including short-term, family, student, and long-term permits.

Documents Needed for Residence

• Passport and entry stamp
• Proof of accommodation
• Valid health insurance
• Application form and biometric photo
• Proof of financial means

Applications must be submitted to the Directorate General of Migration Management. Legal support ensures that deadlines, documentation, and procedural requirements are met efficiently.

Work Permit for Foreigners in Turkey

Work permit for foreigners in Turkey is granted through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. Both employers and foreign employees must meet criteria related to qualifications, business activity, and salary standards.

Steps to Obtain a Work Permit

• Secure an employer in Turkey
• Submit online application via e-devlet or embassy
• Obtain approval from the Ministry
• Register the work permit with social security

Certain sectors such as education, health, and tourism have special regulations, and exemptions may apply for certain nationals or company types.

Personal Taxes for Foreigners in Turkey

Personal taxes for foreigners in Turkey depend on residency status. A person who stays in Turkey more than 183 days a year is considered a tax resident and must declare worldwide income. Non-residents are taxed only on Turkish-sourced income.

Applicable Personal Taxes

• Income Tax (up to 40%)
• Property Tax (annually on real estate)
• Inheritance and Gift Tax
• Value-Added Tax (VAT) for certain purchases

Legal and accounting advisors help foreigners optimize tax liabilities and ensure compliance with national regulations.

Advantages of Real Estate Ownership in Turkey for Foreigners

Advantages of real estate ownership in Turkey for foreigners include property rights protection, access to Turkish citizenship programs, and potential rental income. Turkey allows foreigners from most countries to own freehold property, provided the land is not within military or restricted zones.

Additional Benefits

• High rental yields in cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir
• Easy resale options and growing real estate market
• Property ownership facilitates residence permit renewal

Legal assistance during the buying process ensures clear title deeds, valid zoning, and tax compliance.

Marriage and Death Procedures for Foreigners in Turkey

Marriage and death procedures for foreigners in Turkey are subject to civil regulations and require proper documentation. Marriages must be conducted before a Turkish civil registry officer, and deaths must be reported to the consulate and Turkish authorities.

Marriage Requirements

• Valid passports and translated birth certificates
• Single status certificate (Affidavit of Eligibility)
• Medical report from Turkish state hospital
• Marriage application and fee

Death Reporting Procedure

• Inform local police and municipal registry
• Obtain death certificate
• Notify foreign embassy/consulate
• Arrange for burial or repatriation

Legal and consular support simplifies bureaucratic procedures and prevents delays in document processing.

Establishing a New Company in Turkey

Establishing a new company in Turkey is an attractive option for foreigners due to Turkey’s young population, strong workforce, and strategic access to European and Asian markets. Foreign nationals can own 100% of shares in Turkish companies.

Steps to Start a Company

• Choose company type (Limited or Joint Stock)
• Draft Articles of Association
• Open a bank account and deposit capital
• Register with Trade Registry and Tax Office
• Obtain necessary licenses (if applicable)

Legal consultants help streamline setup, ensure compliance, and manage post-formation obligations.

Obtaining a Car Driving License in Turkey

Obtaining a car driving license in Turkey requires converting a foreign license or passing the Turkish driving test. Foreigners with valid international driving permits can drive up to six months before applying for a Turkish license.

Conversion Requirements

• Residence permit and address registration
• Translation and notarization of foreign license
• Medical certificate and blood type report
• Criminal record clearance
• Application through e-devlet

Legal offices assist with translation, notary, and application processing to avoid delays or rejection.

Attestation and Notary Services in Turkey

Attestation and notary services in Turkey are essential for validating documents for use in official and international processes. Notarization ensures authenticity, and attestation is often required for educational, commercial, or legal purposes.

Commonly Notarized Documents

• Power of Attorney
• Passport copies and IDs
• Contracts and agreements
• Marriage and birth certificates

For international validity, Apostille certification may also be necessary depending on the country of use.

Accounting and Financial Consulting in Turkey

Accounting and financial consulting in Turkey is crucial for foreign entrepreneurs and investors. These services help with tax planning, payroll, bookkeeping, and compliance with Turkish Financial Reporting Standards (TFRS).

Services Include:

• Monthly tax declarations and payroll management
• VAT and income tax filings
• Annual financial statements and audit support
• Foreign exchange reporting and capital control advice

Qualified consultants ensure full regulatory compliance and help optimize financial performance in Turkey’s business environment.

Conclusion

Foreigner law: legal support for foreigners and businesses in Turkey is comprehensive and evolving. Whether your goal is Turkish citizenship, residence in Turkey, or establishing a new company in Turkey, professional legal assistance guarantees compliance and protection of your interests. From legal services for foreigners to accounting and financial consulting in Turkey, our team offers a full spectrum of support tailored to your needs.

If you’re planning to invest, relocate, or work in Turkey, our firm stands ready to offer expert guidance every step of the way.