The procedures required for foreign associations and foundations to open branches and representative offices in Turkey are determined by the provisions of the Associations Law and the Associations Regulation. Associations and foundations that fulfill these obligations can open branches and representative offices in Turkey.
1. Opening Process of Branches or Representative Offices of Foreign Associations in Turkey
Associations established and operating in foreign countries are allowed to carry out activities and cooperation in Turkey, subject to the provisions of Turkish law on associations, with the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the permission of the Ministry of Interior.
Foreign associations must first prepare the necessary information and documents and apply to the Ministry of Interior for an activity permit. At the time of application, the following information specified in the regulation must be submitted to the relevant ministry: the association's title, place of residence, founders, directors, activities, books, and records. After the application is made, the Ministry of Interior checks whether the information and documents comply with the legislation and whether there are any deficiencies. The applicant must address any deficiencies. Following the completion of the information and documents, if there are no issues after the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is obtained, the decision, including the type, scope, and duration of the permit, is announced.
2. Opening Process of Branches or Representative Offices of Foreign Foundations in Turkey
Foreign foundations are organizations that are allowed to open branches and representative offices in Turkey by the Ministry of Interior, with the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under reciprocal conditions where international cooperation is beneficial. They are subject to the provisions of the Civil Code applicable to foundations.
Foreign foundations must submit their branch and representative applications to the Ministry of Interior along with the required information and documents. At the application stage, they must provide details such as the foundation's title, place of residence, founders, administrators, activities, books, and records. After the application is accepted, the Ministry of Interior examines whether the application form and attached documents comply with the legislation and if any information is missing. Missing information and documents are requested to be completed by the applicant. The opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is sought once the application form and all attached documents are complete. If no negative issues are found, the decision is announced, including the type, scope, and duration of the permit. According to the legislation, the right to open branches and representative offices is not subject to time restrictions.
3. Conclusion
The process of opening branches and representative offices in Turkey by foreign associations and foundations can be challenging for organizations unfamiliar with the legislation. Therefore, consultancy services from specialized law firms can be beneficial. Such services help ensure full compliance with obligations, a clear understanding of the process, and awareness of potential difficulties.
Aidango, Turkey's first and only association ERP software, provides comprehensive support for associations with branch and representative networks. Aidango not only performs all essential software functions but also addresses the specific needs of foreign associations and foundations looking to open branches and representative offices in Turkey, as well as their ongoing needs.
Foundations and associations are dynamic systems. They must manage various processes such as association management, website management, accounting and finance, customer relations, and human resources. Aidango's modules and services enable foundations and associations to effectively manage all internal mechanisms. Proper resource utilization and effective organizational development are crucial for associations. Aidango offers a flexible structure that meets the detailed needs of associations and facilitates operational freedom.