Introduction: Why Türkiye Is the Gateway to Modern Trade for Iranians
As the world enters the third decade of the twenty-first century, Türkiye is no longer merely a geographical neighbor of Iran; it has become a vital economic artery and the safest practical gateway to global markets. For Iranian entrepreneurs and business operators who have struggled for years with sanctions and banking restrictions, Istanbul and Ankara are far more than tourist destinations. Today, these cities function as reliable launchpads for entering free and international trade.
However, entering this complex and rapidly evolving market requires abandoning traditional assumptions. Many traders approach Türkiye with an Iran-centric legal mindset and search for concepts such as a “physical commercial card.” What must be clearly understood is that within Türkiye’s modern legal framework (the Turkish Commercial Code), the concept of a commercial card as defined in Iran simply does not exist.
In Türkiye, the ability to conduct trade is not a personal privilege granted to individuals; it is an inherent component of a company’s legal personality, which comes into existence exclusively through company registration. This analytical report bridges the gap between written regulations and real-world execution in the Turkish market during 2025 and 2026, while clearly outlining fundamental changes in costs and legal requirements.
Chapter One: What Is a Commercial Card in Türkiye? (Myth vs. Reality)
Does a Physical Commercial Card Exist in Türkiye?
In Iran’s administrative system, traders must present a physical “commercial card” to clear goods from customs. This mindset has caused thousands of Iranians searching for “obtaining a commercial card in Türkiye” to follow incorrect paths or fall victim to informal and unlicensed consultants. The reality is that in Türkiye, the term “commercial card” may refer to two different documents, neither of which is an exact equivalent of the Iranian system.
The first document is the Merchant Identification Card (Tacir Kartı). This is a smart card issued by chambers of commerce (such as the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce – ITO). Contrary to popular belief, this card does not grant import or export authorization; it merely serves as an identification document proving membership in a chamber of commerce. Its primary use is for obtaining certain facilities and demonstrating commercial credibility, particularly in visa applications.
The second and legally significant document is the Certificate of Activity (Faaliyet Belgesi). This is the document requested by banks and customs authorities. It confirms that the company is active, not bankrupt, and officially authorized to operate. Therefore, the authority Iranians traditionally seek in a “commercial card” is, in Türkiye, embedded within the official company registration gazette and the Certificate of Activity.
Strategic Differences Between Trade in Iran and Türkiye
Understanding the fundamental differences between these two systems is the cornerstone of success. In Iran, commercial cards are subject to import ceilings and ranking systems. In Türkiye, limitations are defined primarily by registered capital and banking credibility.
The governing principle in Türkiye is freedom of trade. Any registered company may import or export any lawful product, except for restricted items such as pharmaceuticals or weapons. While the initial bureaucracy is lighter, ongoing tax and accounting oversight is significantly stricter than in Iran.
Chapter Two: Choosing the Right Company Structure — Limited or Joint Stock?
To operate effectively in Türkiye’s commercial landscape, selecting the appropriate legal vehicle is critical. An incorrect choice between a Limited Liability Company (LTD) and a Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.) can result in substantial tax exposure.
Limited Liability Company (LTD): Popular, Yet Unlimited Liability for Managers
This is the most common structure for small and medium-sized enterprises, accounting for approximately 90% of foreign-owned companies in Türkiye. An LTD can be established with a minimum of one and a maximum of fifty shareholders. As of 2026, a key regulatory change has taken effect: the minimum capital requirement has increased from TRY 10,000 to TRY 50,000. However, to establish real banking credibility, an initial capital of at least TRY 500,000 is strongly recommended.
The critical vulnerability of this structure lies in a little-known fact: in LTD companies, managers bear unlimited personal liability for public debts, including taxes and social security contributions. If the company fails to pay its obligations, tax authorities may seize the manager’s personal assets.
Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.): A Fortress for Investors
For larger-scale projects, the Joint Stock Company is the superior option. As of 2026, the minimum capital requirement has increased to TRY 250,000. Its primary advantage is that shareholders—provided they are not members of the board of directors—bear no personal liability for the company’s tax or social security debts. Additionally, share transfers are significantly easier and more cost-efficient.
Chapter Three: Step-by-Step Company Registration and Licensing Process
Company registration and the acquisition of commercial capabilities in Türkiye typically take between 5 and 10 business days. This process involves several key administrative stages.
1. Drafting the Articles of Association in the MERSİS System
The process begins with the Central Registry Record System (MERSİS). A critical strategic point is ensuring that the “scope of activity” in the articles of association is not overly restrictive. Broad terms such as “general trade” and “import and export of all legally permitted goods” should be included to avoid future amendments and additional costs.
2. Notary Procedures and 2026 Costs
Notary offices are the backbone of Turkish bureaucracy. Passports of all foreign shareholders must be translated and notarized. Under the 2026 fee schedule, notary costs have increased significantly, and a standard articles-of-association notarization can easily exceed TRY 5,000.
3. Tax Registration and Signature Circular (Imza Sirküleri)
Following chamber registration and publication in the official trade registry gazette, the most critical document for a foreign trader is issued: the Signature Circular. The managing director must officially register their signature at a notary. Without this document, opening a corporate bank account, clearing customs, or even obtaining a corporate SIM card is impossible.
Chapter Four: Visible and Hidden Costs (2026 Budgeting)
Many investors focus solely on initial setup costs and overlook ongoing operational expenses. In reality, these recurring costs define long-term sustainability.
Establishment Costs (One-Time)
These include registered capital (minimum TRY 50,000 for LTD companies), notary fees, chamber registration, trade registry publication, and consultancy fees. To start operations in 2026, excluding capital, a budget of approximately TRY 30,000 to TRY 60,000 should be allocated.
Hidden Monthly Operating Costs
This is where many startups fail. Monthly expenses include certified public accountant (CPA) fees, Bağ-Kur social security contributions, and various stamp taxes. If a physical office is leased, a 20% withholding tax (stopaj) on rent applies. Using a virtual office is a legal strategy to eliminate this tax burden.
Chapter Five: Banking Challenges and Navigating Sanctions
Opening a corporate bank account is the most difficult stage for Iranian nationals. Banks apply heightened scrutiny based on the nationality of the ultimate beneficial owner.
State Bank Strategy (Ziraat & Vakıf)
Ziraat Bank remains the most accessible option. However, applying at crowded branches such as Aksaray often leads to rejection. Targeting quieter branches in commercial districts significantly improves success rates. Most banks also require a temporary blocked deposit for one to three months.
New Critical Documentation
In addition to corporate documents, banks may request translated utility bills from Iran to verify residential addresses. A transparent business plan clearly explaining the source of funds is also essential.
Chapter Six: Import–Export Operations and the Role of Trade Associations
After company registration and bank account setup, actual trading operations begin. Here, the concept of a commercial card materializes through membership in Exporters’ Associations (İhracatçı Birlikleri).
By law, every exporter must be a member of the relevant association for their product category. Without this membership number, the customs system will not accept export declarations. For imports, documents such as certificates of origin and control certificates (especially for food and chemical products) are mandatory. For goods originating from Europe, the ATR certificate provides customs duty exemptions—an important competitive advantage for Turkish companies.
Chapter Seven: Residency and Citizenship Through Company Registration
Many assume that registering a company automatically grants a work permit. In reality, the five Turkish employees rule is the primary obstacle. To obtain a work permit, the company must have at least TRY 100,000 in paid-in capital and employ five insured Turkish citizens for each foreign employee.
While newly established companies benefit from a six-month exemption, costs rise sharply thereafter. For investors with greater capital, purchasing property valued at USD 400,000 or maintaining a USD 500,000 bank deposit offers significantly faster routes to Turkish citizenship.
Conclusion: The Success Checklist
Entering the Turkish market in 2026 requires shifting your mindset from “obtaining permits” to “managing a company.” Remember: your accountant (CPA) is your most critical business partner. A poor accountant can expose you to severe penalties through incorrect tax filings. Learn the language of trade and avoid informal money transfer systems if you intend to survive within Türkiye’s transparent financial ecosystem.
