In the evolving landscape of international trade and ongoing geopolitical shifts, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Russia present compelling opportunities for Turkish and European investors seeking to diversify operations, access Eurasian markets, and benefit from substantial incentives. As of 2025, Russia hosts approximately 50 SEZs across various regions, designed to stimulate industrial growth, innovation, and tourism. These zones offer tax breaks, customs exemptions, and ready infrastructure, making them attractive despite global challenges like sanctions.
As a Russo-Turkish legal company with expertise in cross-border dealings, we guide Turkish and European clients through SEZ investments in Russia, including registration, asset protection, and regulatory compliance. This article outlines the SEZ concept, benefits, key locations, registration process, and tailored legal support.
What Are SEZs in Russia and Why Are They Beneficial?
Special Economic Zones (Особые экономические зоны, or ОЭЗ) are designated areas with preferential economic regimes, established under Federal Law No. 116-FZ of 2005. They aim to attract investment into priority sectors such as manufacturing, technology, tourism, and logistics. SEZs are categorized into four types:
- Industrial-Production – for manufacturing
- Technical-Innovative – for R&D and high-tech
- Tourist-Recreational – for hospitality and eco-tourism
- Port – for logistics and trade
Minimum investment thresholds typically range from 120 to 150 million RUB (approx. $1.2–1.5 million).
Benefits for Turkish and European Investors
- Strategic Market Access
- Russia’s membership in the Eurasian Economic Union offers tariff-free access to 180 million consumers. Turkey’s strong trade ties with Russia (over $50 billion in 2024) allow Turkish firms to bypass certain sanctions, while European companies can invest via joint ventures or compliant structures.
- Sanctions Navigation
- Turkish investors benefit from access to non-sanctioned sectors (e.g., agriculture, energy). Europeans must ensure compliance, which our firm facilitates.
- High-Tech and Crypto Opportunities
- Technical SEZs support fintech and innovation, attractive for both European and Turkish tech firms.
- Citizenship and Residency Options
- SEZ investments may qualify for Russian residency or citizenship, providing mobility advantages.
- Economic Stability
- Russia's economy is forecasted to grow by 2.5–3% in 2025. SEZs contribute over 1 trillion RUB in investments and tens of thousands of jobs.
Key SEZ Incentives
- 0% corporate tax (5–10 years)
- Exemption from property and land taxes (up to 10 years)
- Free customs zone regime
- Subsidized infrastructure
- Simplified permitting and regulation
Key SEZs in Russia (2025)
Registration Process for Turkish and European Investors
Timeline: 3–6 months
Ownership: 100% foreign ownership allowed in most sectors
Steps:
Preparation
Choose appropriate SEZ by sector.
Minimum investment: 120 million RUB (lower for tech zones).
At least 1 founder; foreign directors need a work visa.
Application Submission
Submit business plan and investment agreement.
Fee: 100,000–500,000 RUB
Review: 30–60 days
Company Registration
Register an LLC (OOO) with the Federal Tax Service
Capital: min. 10,000 RUB
Open bank account, obtain permits
Lease Land
Lease at preferential rates (1–5 RUB/m²/year), with buy-out option after 5 years
Visas and Residency
Turkish citizens: visa-free up to 30 days
Europeans: may need visa
Residency for investments from 15 million RUB
Choose appropriate SEZ by sector.
Minimum investment: 120 million RUB (lower for tech zones).
At least 1 founder; foreign directors need a work visa.
Application Submission
Submit business plan and investment agreement.
Fee: 100,000–500,000 RUB
Review: 30–60 days
Company Registration
Register an LLC (OOO) with the Federal Tax Service
Capital: min. 10,000 RUB
Open bank account, obtain permits
Lease Land
Lease at preferential rates (1–5 RUB/m²/year), with buy-out option after 5 years
Visas and Residency
Turkish citizens: visa-free up to 30 days
Europeans: may need visa
Residency for investments from 15 million RUB
Documents Required
Passports (apostilled and translated), business plan, proof of funds, charter, compliance declaration
Legal Support for Turkish and European Investors
Our services include:
- Consultations on SEZ opportunities and regulatory compliance
- Business setup and corporate relocation
- Dispute resolution and asset protection
- Assistance with residency and citizenship through SEZ investment
Since 2002, we’ve helped Turkish and European clients minimize risk and expand into Russia confidently.
Contact us for a consultation — your trusted legal partner in Russia.
