Opening Branches of Foreign Associations in Türkiye

Opening Branches and Representative Offices of Foreign Associations and Foundations in Türkiye

The procedures required for foreign associations and foundations to open branches and representative offices in Türkiye are regulated by the Law on Associations and the relevant regulations. Organizations that fulfill these requirements are permitted to establish branches and representative offices in Türkiye.

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1. Process for Foreign Associations to Open a Branch or Representative Office in Türkiye
Associations established and operating in foreign countries are allowed to carry out activities and cooperation in Türkiye—subject to the provisions of the Law on Associations—upon obtaining the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the approval of the Ministry of Interior.

For activity authorization, foreign associations must first prepare the required documents and apply to the Ministry of Interior. During the application, it is mandatory to submit information specified in the regulations, such as the association’s name, registered address, founders and managers, scope of activities, and records.

After submission, the Ministry of Interior reviews the documents for compliance with legislation and checks for any deficiencies. If any missing information is identified, the applicant is asked to complete it. Once all documents are complete, and after obtaining the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a decision is issued specifying the type, scope, and duration of the permit, provided there are no issues.

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2. Process for Foreign Foundations to Open a Branch or Representative Office in Türkiye
Foreign foundations are organizations permitted to open branches and representative offices in Türkiye by the Ministry of Interior—upon obtaining the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs—under conditions of mutual cooperation deemed beneficial at the international level. They are subject to the provisions of the Civil Code applicable to foundations.

Foreign foundations must submit their applications to the Ministry of Interior along with the required documents. During the application, they must provide information such as the foundation’s name, registered address, founders and managers, activities, and records.

Following submission, the Ministry of Interior examines the application form and accompanying documents for legal compliance and completeness. If any deficiencies are identified, the applicant is requested to provide the missing information. After the review process is completed, the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is obtained. If no issues arise, a permit decision is issued specifying the type, scope, and duration. According to legislation, the right to open branches and representative offices is not subject to time limitations.

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3. Conclusion
Opening branches and representative offices in Türkiye may become a complex process for organizations unfamiliar with the legislation. Therefore, it is advisable to seek consultancy services from specialized legal professionals. This ensures that all obligations are fulfilled accurately, the process is clearly understood, and potential challenges are anticipated in advance.

Aidango, Türkiye’s first and only ERP software designed specifically for associations, provides comprehensive software support for organizations with branch and representative office networks. In addition to fulfilling all software functions, Aidango offers services tailored to the needs of foreign associations and foundations both during and after the establishment process.

Foundations and associations are dynamic systems. Managing their objectives and activities requires overseeing various processes such as administration, website management, accounting and finance, customer relations, and human resources. Aidango enables organizations to manage all internal mechanisms efficiently through its integrated modules and services, ensuring effective use of resources and the smooth development of operations.