Netherlands–Turkey Investment Relations
The Netherlands and Turkey have a bilateral investment protection agreement and benefit from the EU-Turkey Customs Union, eliminating tariffs on industrial goods. The Netherlands is one of the largest European investors in Turkey, particularly through holding structures. Bilateral trade exceeds €8 billion annually.
The Netherlands is a significant source of FDI into Turkey, partly due to Dutch holding company structures used by multinational investors. Dutch companies are active in logistics, chemicals, agribusiness, and financial services. The Dutch Chamber of Commerce (DACCO) supports Dutch businesses in Turkey.
Can Dutch Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of Netherlands can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Dutch 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 Dutch investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Dutch citizens do not require a visa for short stays in Turkey up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Work permits must be obtained through the Ministry of Labour for those residing in Turkey. Dutch investors with significant business ties may also qualify for long-term residence.
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 Dutch 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 Dutch Citizens
- Valid passport from Netherlands
- 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 Netherlands, allow additional time.