Everything You Need to Know About Licenses in Türkiye: Types and Key Procedures"

Licenses are an essential part of the legal and administrative system in Türkiye, where the government requires individuals and companies to obtain certain licenses to engage in specific economic or commercial activities.

The aim of these licenses is to regulate activities, ensure compliance with laws, and protect the rights of individuals and society.

 The Concept of Licenses in Türkiye:

Licenses are legal permits granted by the relevant authorities (such as government agencies, municipalities, or ministries) to individuals or companies to carry out certain activities. Licenses can be mandatory or optional depending on the type of activity. The aim of these licenses is to ensure that the activities being carried out comply with local laws, safety standards, and environmental protection.

 Types of Licenses in Türkiye:

In Türkiye, there are various types of licenses that businesses or individuals may need depending on the type of activity. These licenses can be categorized into:

1. Commercial Licenses:

• Company Establishment License: This license is issued by local authorities such as chambers of commerce, granting an individual or entity the right to establish and operate a company in Türkiye. The procedure requires submitting certain documents such as the incorporation agreement, capital disclosure, and registration with the trade registry.

• Commercial Activity License: This license is required to engage in commercial activities such as retail, wholesale, and selling products online. The licenses vary according to the type of business activity.

2. Construction and Engineering Licenses:

• Building Permit: This is one of the most important licenses granted to individuals or companies wishing to construct real estate projects. Obtaining this license requires submitting approved plans from architects and obtaining approval for the project from the relevant authorities.

• Contractor Work License: This license is required for companies operating in the construction and contracting sectors to ensure compliance with technical standards and safety regulations.

3. Industrial Licenses:

• Factory License: This license is granted to factories or industrial establishments wishing to produce goods. It includes inspection processes by authorities to ensure compliance with safety and health standards.

• Industrial Use License: This includes activities such as heavy industries, manufacturing chemicals, or equipment that may affect the environment.

4. Special Licenses:

• Professional Work License: Certain professions require special licenses, such as law, medicine, engineering, and other health-related professions. These licenses require passing professional exams or recognized training.

• Tourism License: Tourism is an important sector in Türkiye, so companies operating in fields such as hotels, travel agencies, or tour guides must obtain special licenses from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

5. Environmental Licenses:

• Environmental Activity License: These licenses are essential for companies whose activities may impact the environment, such as heavy industries or mining companies. Obtaining this license involves conducting an environmental impact assessment and ensuring compliance with environmental laws.

6. Service Project Licenses:

• Financial Service License: Companies providing financial services such as banks, insurance companies, or brokerage firms need special licenses from regulatory bodies like the Capital Markets Board of Türkiye (SPK).

• Retail Business License: Every type of retail establishment, whether restaurants, cafes, or stores, is required to obtain commercial and health licenses, which include compliance with hygiene and safety standards.

 How to Obtain Licenses in Türkiye:

• Preparing the Necessary Documents: Individuals or companies must submit the required documents such as contracts, business plans, health certificates, environmental permits, and others.

• Applying to the Relevant Authorities: The application must be submitted to the authority or ministry responsible for the license. These bodies may include chambers of commerce, local municipalities, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Health, etc.

• Paying the Fees: To obtain the license, administrative fees must be paid.

• Approval and Inspection: In some cases, the relevant authorities may visit the site or inspect activities before issuing the license.

 Legal Consequences of Not Obtaining a License:

• Fines: Authorities may impose financial penalties on individuals or companies operating without the required license.

• Activity Suspension: In some cases, commercial activities may be suspended entirely until the appropriate license is obtained.
• Legal Responsibility: Individuals or companies may face legal responsibility if it is proven that they are engaged in illegal or unlicensed activities.