ŞAHİN | DOĞAN                                            Hukuk Bürosu
OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT FOR FOREIGN LEGAL ENTITIES IN TURKEY: CONVENIENCE AND PROSPECTS

OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT FOR FOREIGN LEGAL ENTITIES IN TURKEY: CONVENIENCE AND PROSPECTS

Turkey is one of the most attractive countries for foreign investments due to its geographical appeal, developed economy, and favorable business climate. If you represent a foreign legal company and are considering expanding your business in Turkey, opening a corporate account can be an important step for you.

Today, there are more than 50 different banks operating in Turkey, many of which specialize in serving foreign clients. When choosing a bank, it is important to consider individual preferences and goals, paying special attention to the terms of cooperation and the opportunities provided by the financial institution. Focus on the quality of service, interest rates on loans and deposits, fees, and the availability of online banking for convenient self-service and payment transactions.

Prospects and advantages of opening a corporate account in Turkey include:

  • Quick and convenient account opening: Turkish banks offer a simple and transparent procedure for opening a corporate account for foreign legal entities. The process usually takes from a few days to several weeks, depending on the bank’s requirements and the documentation provided.
  • Ease of currency transactions: Opening a corporate account in Turkey allows for currency operations without the need for third-party intermediaries. This ensures convenience and efficiency in conducting business and helps reduce currency conversion costs.
  • Developed banking system: Turkish banks have a well-established infrastructure and provide a wide range of services, including electronic banking operations, internet banking, and mobile applications, making it easier to manage finances and providing quick access to funds.
  • International business: Opening a corporate account in Turkey enables foreign legal entities to conduct business with other companies in Turkey and beyond. Turkey has numerous bilateral investment protection agreements that contribute to the protection of foreign investors.

The standard set of documents (translated into Turkish, notarized, and apostilled) required for opening a corporate account in Turkey includes:

  • Potential tax number obtained in the name of the company and its authorized partner/director.
  • Document confirming that the company has been active within the last year.
  • Certificate of registration and articles of association of the company (document specifying the scope of activities).
  • Document indicating the partnership structure of the company for the last year.
  • Circular of signatures of the authorized person of the company.
  • Copy of identification/passport of all partners of the company.
  • Copy of identification/passport of the authorized director of the company.
  • Power of attorney and other additional documents that may be required by the bank.

It is important to ensure that your company complies with Turkish legislation and banking industry norms.

Opening a corporate account for foreign legal entities in Turkey presents an attractive opportunity for expanding international business. With the convenience of the procedure and the prospects provided by Turkish banks, you will be able to effectively manage your finances and develop your business in a strategic and growing market. Based on this, before proceeding to open a corporate account for your foreign company, we recommend the following:

  1. Seek professional assistance: To facilitate a smoother and more successful process of opening a corporate account, it is recommended to consult legal and financial advisors specializing in business in Turkey.
  2. Research the market: Conduct market research to determine the best bank and conditions for opening a corporate account that align with your needs and business goals.
  3. Utilize the advantages: Opening a corporate account in Turkey provides you with a wide range of financial opportunities, convenience in conducting business, and access to a developed banking system.