Alanya has become a growing hub where foreign investors establish companies across tourism, real estate, import-export and service sectors. Choosing the right corporate structure, complying with the current Turkish Commercial Code and setting up tax obligations correctly from the outset are the most critical stages of the process. As a corporate lawyer in Alanya, we manage the legal process carefully throughout your commercial journey, from formation to growth.
Company Formation for Foreigners in Alanya
Turkish legislation grants foreign investors the same rights as Turkish citizens. You do not need a Turkish partner, and a single foreign individual can be both the sole shareholder and the director of the company. The two most common company types are:
- Limited Liability Company (Ltd.) — Preferred for small and medium-sized businesses. The minimum capital is TRY 50,000, and it may be paid within twenty-four months after registration.
- Joint Stock Company (A.S.) — Suitable for larger investments, easier share transfers and potential public offering. The minimum capital is TRY 250,000, one quarter of which is blocked before registration.
The right structure depends on your field of activity, number of partners, tax planning and future share transfer or investment goals. We assess this choice together with your commercial objectives.
Formation Process and Steps
Setting up a company in Alanya is usually completed within a few weeks when documents are complete and correctly translated. In outline, the process follows these steps:
- Obtaining a tax identification number for each foreign shareholder and director,
- Reserving the company name through the MERSIS system,
- Preparing the articles of association covering the activity, capital and management,
- Submitting notarised and, where required, apostilled passport copies with sworn Turkish translations,
- Registration and announcement before the Trade Registry Directorate,
- Tax office registration, signature circular and certification of commercial books.
The foreign investor does not need to be physically present in Turkey; the procedures can be carried out through a duly issued power of attorney.
Commercial Contracts, Partnership and Share Transfer
A solid commercial relationship begins with well-drafted contracts. We prepare and negotiate supply, distribution, lease, service and partnership agreements to protect the client and minimise the risk of dispute. Shareholders agreements that clarify the rights and obligations between partners play a decisive role in preventing future disagreements.
In share transfers, it is essential that the transfer is carried out in accordance with the company type, that the necessary board resolutions are taken, and that the transfer is recorded in the share ledger. We handle these transactions by evaluating both their legal validity and tax consequences.
Commercial Debt Collection and Dispute Resolution
Unpaid invoices and uncollected cheques and promissory notes are among the most frequent problems businesses face. We make effective use of enforcement proceedings, formal notices and, where necessary, litigation to recover your commercial receivables. Pre-litigation mediation is a mandatory stage for most commercial receivable claims, and we manage this process to secure your claim in the fastest possible way.
In contractual disputes, court proceedings or arbitration may come into play depending on the parties preference. By placing appropriate dispute resolution and jurisdiction clauses in commercial contracts from the outset, we strengthen your position in any future conflict.
Link to Work and Residence Permits
One of the main advantages of establishing a company in Alanya is that it opens a path to a work permit and, in turn, a residence right for the foreign partner. Once the company is set up and the tax number obtained, the foreign partner applies to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security for a work permit in order to work in their own company. The work permit can also serve as a basis for a residence permit for the foreigner and, where applicable, family members.
Company-partner work permits are subject to current criteria such as capital amount, shareholding ratio and employment obligations. We prepare the application with the strategy best suited to the investor and follow the process from start to finish.
Post-Formation Tax and Accounting Obligations
Forming the company is the beginning of the process, not the end. After incorporation there are recurring obligations such as value added tax filings, advance and annual corporate tax returns and social security duties. Once certain thresholds are exceeded, digital applications such as e-invoice and e-ledger may become mandatory. Failure to meet these obligations on time can lead to administrative fines and legal risk. We help you plan the accounting and tax process in coordination with a reliable financial advisor and secure the legal side from the outset.
In addition, taking shareholder and board resolutions properly, keeping commercial books in order and holding annual general meetings on time preserve the company legal validity and the partners limited liability protection. Neglecting these corporate governance requirements can create serious problems later.
Branch, Liaison Office and Alternative Structures
Setting up a new company is not the only option. Investors who already own a company abroad may also consider opening a branch or a liaison office in Alanya. Liaison offices cannot carry out direct commercial activity or generate income, but may be used for purposes such as market research, promotion and representation. We determine the structure best suited to your activity in light of tax consequences, the liability regime and your long-term commercial goals, offering a tailored roadmap rather than a standard solution.
Required Documents
- Passport and notarised Turkish translation for each foreign shareholder and director,
- Turkish tax identification number,
- Company address information and lease agreement,
- Passport photographs,
- Apostille certification for documents issued abroad,
- Notarised power of attorney if acting by proxy.
Document requirements may vary according to company type and field of activity; we provide a complete list tailored to your situation before the application.
Why Rufina Tastan Law Office
Our office in Alanya removes the language barrier by serving foreign investors in Turkish and Russian. From company formation and contract management to debt collection and the work permit process, we stand beside you at every stage of your commercial activity. You can reach us at +90 538 838 63 66 for a free initial consultation to assess the needs of your business.