Formation
Company formation in Kocaeli
For domestic and foreign investors setting up a company in Kocaeli: the chamber where registration takes place, the free zones in the province, leading sectors and the end-to-end process.
- Registering chamber
- Kocaeli Ticaret Odası
- Trade registry directorate
- Kocaeli Ticaret Sicili Müdürlüğü
- Free zones in province
- 2
- Incorporation time
- 1–3 business days
Kocaeli has the highest concentration of industry in Türkiye. For chemical, petrochemical and automotive investment, the Kocaeli Free Zone and the TÜBİTAK-MAM Technology Free Zone offer two different profiles: one suits heavy industry, the other R&D-intensive technology companies.
Registration is handled by the Kocaeli Ticaret Sicili Müdürlüğü within Kocaeli Ticaret Odası. The application is prepared through MERSİS, and with a power of attorney the shareholders need not travel to Türkiye.
Leading sectors in Kocaeli
- Manufacturing
- Automotive
- Energy
- Logistics and transport
Free zones in Kocaeli
- Kocaeli Serbest Bölgesi
- TÜBİTAK-MAM Teknoloji Serbest Bölgesi
Which company type in Kocaeli?
Company type does not change from province to province; it follows your activity, shareholding structure and the incentives you are targeting.
Districts we serve in Kocaeli
We serve every district across Kocaeli. Because registration is handled centrally for the whole province, the district makes no difference to the process or the cost.
- İzmit
- Gebze
- Çayırova
- Darıca
- Körfez
- Gölcük
- Dilovası
Frequently asked questions
Where is a company registered in Kocaeli?
Registration is carried out by the Kocaeli Ticaret Sicili Müdürlüğü within Kocaeli Ticaret Odası. The application is prepared electronically through MERSİS, followed by notarisation and registry entry. The company acquires legal personality once announced in the Trade Registry Gazette.
Do I need to travel to set up a company in Kocaeli?
No. The entire incorporation can be completed remotely with an apostilled power of attorney issued at the Turkish consulate in your country. Only for bank account opening do some banks require a one-off in-person visit; we clarify that requirement at the outset.
Can I set up a company in a free zone in Kocaeli?
The free zone section on this page lists the zones in this province. A company established in a free zone benefits from corporate tax exemption on manufacturing income and from customs exemption; in return it must obtain an operating licence and the approval of the zone operator. The advantage narrows for business models aimed at the domestic market.
Let's start with a conversation
In a free 30-minute call, let's clarify which company structure and which incentives fit you. Non-binding, but useful.