Japan–Turkey Investment Relations
Japan and Turkey signed a bilateral investment agreement in 1992 to promote and protect mutual investments. The agreement provides Japanese investors with fair and equitable treatment, protection against expropriation, and free transfer of investment returns. Both countries are also members of the G20 and OECD, reinforcing a stable framework for cross-border investment.
Japanese companies have a growing presence in Turkey, particularly in the automotive, electronics, and manufacturing sectors. Turkey is seen as a strategic production hub bridging European and Asian markets. The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) maintains an office in Istanbul to support Japanese businesses entering the Turkish market.
Can Japanese Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of Japan can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Japanese 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 Japanese investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Japanese citizens can enter Turkey without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Work permits must be applied for through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security after company formation. Japanese investors with qualifying investments may also be eligible for the Turquoise Card long-term residence program.
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 Japanese 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 Japanese Citizens
- Valid passport from Japan
- 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 Japan, allow additional time.