Obtaining a Free Zone Operating/Activity License

Securing a Free Zone Operating License (also known as a Certificate of Good Standing) is a critical step for businesses aiming to operate within Turkey's Free Zones, such as the Mersin Free Zone. This license grants the legal authority to conduct specified activities within the zone. Below is a comprehensive guide detailing the types of licenses available and the step-by-step application process:

License Types

Depending on the nature of your business activities, you should apply for one of the following license types:

  1. Production License: With this license, the purchase and sale, storage, branding, packaging, labeling and maintenance and repair of raw materials and intermediate materials used in production and production can be carried out.
  2. Trade License (Buying-Selling): Buying and selling, storage, labeling, packaging and labeling of traded goods can be carried out.
  3. Warehouse License: Goods of users or other non-user persons or organizations can be stored.
  4. Assembly-Disassembly License: Assembly or disassembly of goods can be done with this type of license.
  5. Maintenance-Repairment License: Maintenance and repair of goods can be carried out with this type of license.
  6. Leasing License: With this license, ready workplaces can be rented to users.
  7. Other: This type of license includes service sector, banking, brokers, engineering, consultancy, transportation, agency, etc.

Application Process

The application process involves several detailed steps to ensure compliance with regulations and successful acquisition of the license:

  1. Obtain and Complete the Application Form
    • Accessing the Form: The "Operating License Application Form" can be obtained from the General Directorate of Free Zones, the Mersin Free Zone Directorate, or MESBAŞ (Mersin Free Zone Founder and Operator Inc.).
    • Filling Out the Form: Ensure that the form is completed electronically and that each page is duly signed. The form requires comprehensive information about your company and the proposed activities within the Free Zone.
  2. Pay the Application Fee
    • Fee Amount: As of the latest guidelines, the application fee is $5,000 USD.
    • Payment Process: Deposit the fee into the "Free Zones Special Account" at the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey (CBRT). Ensure you obtain the original bank receipt, as this will need to be included in your application package. If not approved, the fee is refunded.
  3. Prepare Supporting Documentation

    If the application is being made on behalf of a new company (i.e., the Free Zone company is not yet established), the following documents should be included in the application dossier for obtaining the activity license:

    1. Application Form: Completed Activity/Operating License Application Form.
    2. Introductory Information Letter: A letter detailing the activities that the applicant company will engage in within the Free Zone.
    3. Proof of Payment: Original and photocopy of the bank receipt showing the payment of the activity license application fee.
    4. Draft Articles of Association: A draft of the company's main contract, prepared in accordance with Circular No. 1998/4.
    5. Identification Documents:
      • For Turkish Partners: Photocopies of ID cards.
      • For Foreign Partners: Notarized originals and copies of passport translations.
    6. Authorization Documents: Authorization certificate and signature circular of the signatory (if applicable), as well as the authorization certificate and signature statement of the company representative (if applicable).
  4. Submit the Application
    • Submission Point: Submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents to the Mersin Free Zone Directorate. This can be done in person or via registered mail.
    • Operator's Opinion: The Zone Directorate will review your application and forward it, along with their assessment, to the General Directorate of Free Zones for final evaluation.
  5. Await Evaluation and Approval
    • Evaluation Period: The General Directorate will assess the application based on the provided information and the Zone Directorate's feedback.
    • Approval Notification: If approved, you will receive a written notification. You will then have 30 days to submit a copy of the lease agreement for your operational space and any other required documents to the General Directorate.
    • License Issuance: Upon submission of the necessary documents within the stipulated timeframe, the Operating License will be issued.

Additional Considerations

  • Lease or Sale Agreement: According to Article 8 of the Free Zones Implementation Regulation, those deemed suitable for the issuance of the activity license must enter into lease or sale contracts with the Operator or the Zone Founder and Operator within 30 days. After the approval of this lease or sales contract by the Zone Directorate, the General Directorate issues the activity license.