Turkish Law For Foreigners In Turkey

Overview

The legal system in Turkey is based on the civil law system, which is also known as the Romano-Germanic (continental European) legal system. The main sources of law in Turkey are the Constitution, statutory law, and court decisions. The Turkish legal system is overseen by the Ministry of Justice and the Constitutional Court.

Foreigners living in Turkey are subject to Turkish laws and regulations, and they must comply with the same legal requirements as Turkish citizens. Here are some general tips that may help foreigners navigate the legal system in Turkey:

Obtain the necessary visas and permits: Foreigners who wish to work, study, or reside in Turkey must obtain the appropriate visas and permits from the Turkish authorities. The type of visa or permit required depends on the individual’s purpose of stay and length of stay. It’s important to apply for the appropriate visa or permit well in advance of the intended date of travel. Check also Visa Information For Foreigners through the website of Ministry Of Foreign Affairs: https://www.mfa.gov.tr/consular-info.en.mfa
Register with the local authorities: Foreigners who plan to stay in Turkey for an extended period of time (exceeding visa) must register with the local authorities within 30 days of arrival. This registration process involves providing personal information and obtaining a residence permit. Check also information provided by the Ministry Of Interior: https://en.goc.gov.tr/general-information41
Familiarize yourself with Turkish laws and regulations: It’s important for foreigners to familiarize themselves with Turkish laws and regulations, especially those that are relevant to their particular situation. This includes laws related to employment , property ownership , business , taxation , and healthcare .
Seek legal assistance when necessary: If you encounter legal issues in Turkey, it’s advisable to seek legal assistance from a licensed attorney or legal professional. They can provide guidance on legal procedures, represent you in court, and help you navigate the Turkish legal system.

Please note that this is general guidance and should not be taken as legal advice. It’s always best to consult with a licensed legal professional for specific legal advice regarding your individual situation.

General Information For Business Owners

Foreigners are allowed to set up businesses in Turkey. Turkey is actively encouraging foreign investment and offers a range of incentives to foreign investors, including tax exemptions and reduced bureaucratic procedures.

Foreigners can establish a business in Turkey in several ways . One option is to set up a limited liability company (LLC), which is the most common business structure used by foreign investors in Turkey. Another option is to establish a branch office, which is an extension of the foreign company and operates under its name.

To set up a business in Turkey , foreigners must meet certain legal requirements and obtain the necessary permits and licenses. This process involves registering the company with the relevant government agencies, obtaining a tax identification number, and obtaining any necessary business licenses.

Foreigners are also subject to the same tax regulations as Turkish citizens and must comply with Turkish tax laws. Turkey has a double taxation treaty with many countries, which helps to avoid double taxation for foreign investors.

It’s advisable for foreigners who wish to set up a business in Turkey to seek the advice of a professional legal and tax advisor to ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.