Brazil–Turkey Investment Relations
Brazil and Turkey have a bilateral investment agreement and cooperate through G20 mechanisms. Both countries are emerging market economies with complementary trade interests. Bilateral trade between Turkey and Brazil has been growing, with agricultural products and manufactured goods forming the basis of trade.
Brazilian investment in Turkey focuses primarily on agribusiness, aviation, manufacturing, and construction sectors. Turkey and Brazil share ambitions as emerging market leaders with growing bilateral trade. Turkish Airlines maintains extensive connectivity between Istanbul and Brazilian cities, facilitating business travel.
Can Brazilian Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of Brazil can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Brazilian nationals receive equal treatment under the Turkish Commercial Code, with the same rights and obligations as Turkish-owned companies.
There are no sector restrictions specific to Brazilian investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Brazilian citizens need a visa or e-Visa to enter Turkey for business purposes. Standard business visa processing is available. Work permits require a separate application to the Ministry of Labour after company formation is completed.
Foreign shareholders who do not intend to work or reside in Turkey do not need a work permit or residence permit to own a company. However, if you plan to actively manage your Turkish company from Turkey, a work permit is legally required.
Recommended Company Type
The most common structure among Brazilian investors is the Limited Liability Company (LLC / Ltd. Şti.).
LLC (Ltd. Şti.)
- Min. 50,000 TRY capital
- 1–50 shareholders
- Simple management structure
- Best for SMEs and service businesses
Joint Stock (A.Ş.)
- Min. 250,000 TRY capital
- 1+ (no limit) shareholders
- Board of directors required
- Best for large-scale or IPO-track businesses
Branch Office
- No separate legal entity
- No minimum capital
- Extension of parent company
- Best for companies testing the market
Requirements for Brazilian Citizens
- Valid passport from Brazil
- Turkish tax identification number (vergi numarası)
- Registered business address in Turkey
- Notarized Articles of Association (in Turkish)
- Minimum share capital deposit at a Turkish bank
- Power of attorney (if forming remotely without visiting Turkey)
Formation Process
- Consultation — Choose your company type, define business activities, and plan your structure
- MERSIS Pre-Registration — Enter company details in Turkey's central registry system
- Articles of Association — Draft, notarize, and sign (or via power of attorney)
- Bank Account & Capital Deposit — Open a Turkish bank account and deposit at least 25% of capital
- Trade Registry — File with the local Trade Registry Office
- Tax & Social Security — Register with the tax office and SGK
- Work Permits — Apply if foreign managers or employees will be based in Turkey
The process typically takes 5–10 business days once all documents are prepared. If documents need apostille or consular legalization from Brazil, allow additional time.