Steps to Establish an Import Company in Turkey: A Comprehensive Guide for Arab Investors

Steps to Establish an Import Company in Turkey: A Comprehensive Guide for Arab Investors

Opening an import company in Turkey is considered a smart strategic move for anyone looking to expand commercially into regional and international markets. As a leading industrial and logistics hub, Turkey offers an ideal environment for establishing import and export companies, especially for investors from Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Morocco, and the Gulf countries.

1. Choose the Most Suitable Company Type

Limited Liability Company (LTD)

The most suitable option for most foreign investors.

Joint Stock Company

Suitable for large-scale investments.

Note: Foreign investors can establish a company with 100% foreign ownership without the need for a Turkish partner.

2. Required Documents

To establish your company, you will need:

• A copy of your passport
• A personal tax number
• A residential address in Turkey (temporary addresses are acceptable)
• The proposed company name and business activity

3. Official Company Registration

The registration process includes:

• Submitting the articles of incorporation through a public notary
• Opening a commercial bank account and depositing the company capital (minimum capital: 10,000 Turkish lira)
• Registering the company with the Chamber of Commerce and obtaining the commercial registration certificate

4. Obtain a Tax Number and Business License

You must complete the following steps:

• Register with the Turkish Tax Office
• Obtain a VAT (Value Added Tax) certificate
• Register employees with the Social Security Institution (SGK)

5. Obtain an Importer and Trader License

This helps facilitate:

• Import procedures from Turkey to Saudi Arabia or any Arab country
• Official customs clearance for goods and merchandise

6. Open a Physical or Virtual Office

• A commercial lease agreement is legally required
• You may start with a virtual office to reduce operational costs

7. Work with Suppliers

• Communicate with trusted Turkish import and export companies through the Turkish Marketer platform
• Sign official contracts and secure payments through bank transfers

Cost of Opening an Import Company in Turkey

Company Formation Fees

Starting from approximately $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the company type and included services.

Office Rent

Ranges between $100 and $400 per month.

Monthly Certified Accountant Fees

Approximately $50 to $100 per month.

Establishing an import company in Turkey is a promising investment that simplifies import operations from Turkey and gives you greater flexibility in dealing with both the Turkish market and the European Union. It is always recommended to work with a local legal consultant to simplify procedures and ensure full compliance with Turkish laws.

Turkish Marketer provides direct access to suppliers and offers company formation services in cooperation with licensed legal offices in Istanbul and Ankara.