Permit processes for foreign non-governmental organisations.

What can foreign NGOs do in Türkiye?

Foreign associations, foundations and non-profit organisations may open a branch or representative office, operate and cooperate in Türkiye with the permission of the Ministry of Interior's Directorate General for Relations with Civil Society. The application is made to the Ministry; the scope of activity is limited to the permission granted.

• Representative office: Can be opened with a single founder; no governing bodies (general assembly, board) are formed and members cannot be registered.
• Branch: Requires at least three founders; forms its governing bodies within six months and can register members.

Core documents for the application

• Original charter/deed of the organisation — apostilled (or consular-legalised) with a notarised Turkish translation
• Resolution of the competent body on opening the branch/representative office, and authorised signatories
• Application forms in line with the model in the legislation, and founder details
• Residence or work permit details for foreign founders

Permitted organisations must report the previous year's activities and expenditure by the end of April each year; missing the reporting deadline leads to administrative sanctions.

Foreigners founding associations in Türkiye

Foreign natural persons with the right to settle in Türkiye (holding a residence permit) may found associations and become members. Formation is carried out by notification to the provincial directorate of civil society relations where they reside, with the charter attached; associations with foreign founders are asked for additional information and documents.

How do we help?

• Determining the permit type that matches your activity plan (branch, representative office, cooperation/activity permit)
• Coordinating apostille, translation and notary steps; building a complete application file
• Correspondence with the Ministry, tracking additional document requests and managing the annual reporting calendar
• Planning integrated with the work permit processes of foreign staff