Tax Number in Turkey for Foreigners

Foreigners who deal with Turkish offices are often asked for a Turkish tax number, and many do not have one. It is a small piece of paperwork, but it can hold up a notary appointment or a larger transaction if nobody thinks about it until the last minute.

What a tax number is

A tax number is an identification number issued by the Turkish tax authorities. A foreigner who is not registered in Turkey does not normally have one until it is issued for them.

Why you may be asked for one

Many transactions in Turkey that involve a foreigner ask for a tax number. Typical examples are notary transactions such as a power of attorney, buying property or a vehicle, opening a bank account, and setting up a company. Whether you need one depends on the transaction and the office, so check with whoever is receiving your paperwork.

Tax number or residence permit

When you come to a notary appointment, bring your passport and your Turkish tax number or residence permit, if you have one. If you have neither, tell us when you book, so we can arrange it ahead of time. Our guide to notary appointments in Istanbul lists everything to bring.

How we help

If you don't have a tax number, we take care of getting it issued for you. Tell us what the transaction is for and send us your passport details when you book, and we will let you know how to proceed. This is often the first step before a power of attorney or another document signed before a notary.

Mistakes that cost time

• Assuming you already have one. If you have never registered with the Turkish tax authorities, you probably don't.
• Leaving it until the day of the appointment. Tell us when you book, so it doesn't delay the signing.
• Name spellings that don't match the passport. The number is tied to your details, so a mismatch can cause problems later.
• Not saying what it's for. The purpose, such as a power of attorney or a property purchase, helps us arrange the right steps.