In the context of global economic dynamics and increasing integration within the EU and beyond, free economic zones (FEZs) in Turkey are becoming increasingly attractive for European entrepreneurs and investors. Turkey's FEZs offer tax incentives, streamlined business registration, and access to international markets, making them particularly relevant for companies relocating or expanding from Europe. As of 2025, according to data from the Turkish Ministry of Trade, there are 19 operational FEZs in the country, fostering exports and innovation.
As a Russian-Turkish legal company with extensive experience in Europe, we specialize in supporting European clients in Turkey, assisting with FEZ investments, citizenship acquisition, and asset protection. In this article, we explore the benefits of FEZs in Turkey for Europeans, the list of zones, the registration process, and legal considerations.
What Are FEZs in Turkey and Why Are They Beneficial for European Investors?
Turkey's Free Economic Zones (Serbest Bölgeler) are designated areas with preferential regimes, governed by Law No. 3218 of 1985. They are designed to boost exports, manufacturing, and trade. Activities in FEZs include production, storage, packaging, banking services, insurance, and cryptocurrency operations.
For European clients, FEZs in Turkey are particularly appealing in 2025 due to:
Business Expansion
Many European companies leverage Turkey's strategic location for access to the Middle East, Asia, and Africa while benefiting from the EU-Turkey Customs Union for seamless trade
Cryptocurrencies and Virtual Assets
FEZs support CASP providers with tax advantages, ideal for European fintech firms
Citizenship Through Investment
Investments in FEZs (starting from $500,000) qualify for Turkish citizenship for the entire family, offering mobility benefits for Europeans
Economic Growth
Turkey's economy is projected to grow by 3.1% in 2025 (OECD), with FEZs contributing billions to exports
Many European companies leverage Turkey's strategic location for access to the Middle East, Asia, and Africa while benefiting from the EU-Turkey Customs Union for seamless trade
Cryptocurrencies and Virtual Assets
FEZs support CASP providers with tax advantages, ideal for European fintech firms
Citizenship Through Investment
Investments in FEZs (starting from $500,000) qualify for Turkish citizenship for the entire family, offering mobility benefits for Europeans
Economic Growth
Turkey's economy is projected to grow by 3.1% in 2025 (OECD), with FEZs contributing billions to exports
Key advantages include exemptions from corporate tax, VAT, customs duties, and unrestricted profit repatriation. This positions investments in Turkey's free zones as a stable option for Europeans seeking diversification.
List of Free Economic Zones in Turkey in 2025
According to the latest data from the Turkish Ministry of Trade, there are 19 FEZs in strategic regions focused on exports.
Below is a comprehensive list with locations, establishment years, and primary activities (based on official sources):
This list is derived from official sources and may be updated. The total trade volume in FEZs exceeds billions of dollars, employing thousands.
How to Register a Business in Turkey's FEZs for Europeans?
Registering a company in Turkey's free zones for European investors takes 1–3 months and allows 100% foreign ownership without restrictions.
Exact Conditions for Opening a Company in Turkey's FEZs in 2025
Based on up-to-date official and legal sources, the conditions for opening a company in Turkey's FEZs for foreign investors (including Europeans) are straightforward and liberal. Foreigners can own 100% of the company without special permits in most sectors.
The process is regulated by the Free Zones Law No. 3218 of 1985 (as amended) and handled by the General Directorate of Free Zones under the Ministry of Trade. Minimum capital and document requirements are standardized but may vary by company type (typically LLC — Limited Şirket). Below are the precise steps, documents, requirements, and timelines for 2025. Note that the process takes 1–3 months, and engaging lawyers is recommended to minimize risks.
The process is regulated by the Free Zones Law No. 3218 of 1985 (as amended) and handled by the General Directorate of Free Zones under the Ministry of Trade. Minimum capital and document requirements are standardized but may vary by company type (typically LLC — Limited Şirket). Below are the precise steps, documents, requirements, and timelines for 2025. Note that the process takes 1–3 months, and engaging lawyers is recommended to minimize risks.
1. Preliminary Requirements and FEZ Selection
- Zone Selection
- First, research and select a suitable FEZ (from the 19 operational ones, e.g., Mersin, Istanbul, or İzmir). Consider the zone's focus (manufacturing, logistics, IT) and infrastructure. The full list is available on the Ministry of Trade's SEBATLAS platform
- Type of Activity
- The company must focus on exports (at least 85% of products/services). Permitted activities include manufacturing, trade, storage, and services including cryptocurrencies and CASP
- Minimum Number of Founders and Directors
- At least 1 shareholder and 1 director (foreigners allowed). No residency restrictions, but foreign directors need a work visa or residency permit
- Minimum Authorized Capital
- For an LLC — 50,000 TRY (about $1,500 in 2025). Capital can be contributed over 2 years, with at least 25% at registration. No heightened requirements in FEZs, but some zones (e.g., technoparks) may demand additional investments
2. Registration Steps
The process has two stages: obtaining an operating license in the FEZ and registering the company with the Trade Registry. Applications are submitted online via SEBATLAS or directly to the Ministry of Trade.
1. Preparation of Business Plan and Documents
Develop a detailed plan outlining activities, investments (specify minimum amount), employee numbers, and export plans
2. Application for Operating License (Free Zone Operating License)
- Complete the application form with the business plan, investment amount, and operational details
- Pay registration fees to the Central Bank of Turkey (about $500–1,000, depending on the zone)
- Submit the application and payment receipt to the General Directorate of Free Zones
- Review period: 15–30 days
3. Company Registration with the Trade Registry
- Check and reserve the company name (free online)
- Submit documents to the local Trade Registry Office (Ticaret Sicil Müdürlüğü) in the FEZ province
- Obtain notarized certification of founding documents
- Open a bank account and deposit capital
- Register with tax and social security authorities
- Timeline: 1–2 weeks after license approval
4. Leasing Space in the FEZ
After registration, lease an office or warehouse in the zone (from $5–20 per m² per month, depending on the zone)
5. Obtaining Visas and Permits
For Europeans — apply for residency through investments ($400,000 in real estate or $500,000 in bank/business for citizenship). A work visa is required for directors
3. Required Documents
- For Individuals (Shareholders)
- Notarized and translated passports, photos, power of attorney
- For Legal Entities
- Notarized and apostilled certificate of activity (Certificate of Good Standing), board resolution on establishing a branch or company
- General
- Articles of Association, business plan, notarized signatures, proof of capital payment
- For Europeans
- Documents must be apostilled (under the Hague Convention) and translated into Turkish
4. Incentives and Benefits in FEZs
- Exemption from corporate tax (if exports exceed 85%), VAT, and customs duties on imported raw materials and equipment
- Free profit transfer abroad
- No restrictions on capital repatriation
5. Features for European Investors
- Full ownership freedom without intermediaries
- FEZs facilitate EU trade via the Customs Union, enabling duty-free exports
- Compliance checks recommended (e.g., sanctions listings)
- Our company provides comprehensive support: from document preparation to dispute resolution
If you need more details or assistance with submission, schedule a consultation. Information may update, so verify on the Ministry of Trade's official website
Legal Support for European Clients in Turkey's FEZs
Investments in Turkey's FEZs for Europeans involve potential risks, such as disputes or enforcement of foreign court decisions. We offer:
- Consultations on investments in free zones in Turkey
- Business registration and relocation
- Protection in disputes, including crypto-assets
- Turkish citizenship through FEZ investments
Since 2002, we have been helping Europeans minimize risks. Schedule a consultation — your reliable partner in Turkey!
