When exploring global opportunities for mobile app operations, Turkey stands out as a strategic hub. The country offers a wide range of government-backed incentives—not just for gaming apps but also for non-gaming applications, such as fintech, health tech, productivity tools, and education platforms. These mobile app incentives provide unparalleled support to app developers aiming to expand into international markets.
Foreign Ownership? No Problem in Turkey
One of the most attractive aspects of Turkey’s incentive programs is that ownership nationality is irrelevant. Whether you’re a foreign entrepreneur or a local business owner, the requirements to access these benefits are straightforward. This opens doors for non-gaming app companies seeking a global footprint, with Turkey as their operational base.
Mobile App Incentives for Non-Gaming Companies in Turkey
1. Advertising Support That Scales Internationally (Digital Product Promotion Support)
- Incentive Amount: Beneficiaries can receive up to 15,000,000 TL per app annually. A single company can leverage this support for up to 10 different apps, with a total annual limit of 50,000,000 TL.
- Support Rates: The base reimbursement rate is 50%. However, if the advertisements are directed toward “Target Countries” specifically identified by the Ministry, the rate increases by an additional 20 percentage points, reaching 70%.
- Application Deadline: Applications must be submitted within 6 months of the payment date.
- Compliance & Process: To qualify, apps must be published under the company’s own store accounts (Google Play Console, App Store, etc.). Applicants must submit proof of advertisements (including click and country-based reports), bank-approved payment documents (dekont/ekstre), and screenshots clearly showing the company’s name within the ad platform’s account management interface (e.g., MCC or Ads Manager). Furthermore, membership in the Service Exporters’ Association (HİB) is a mandatory prerequisit
2. Analytics and Database Tool Reimbursement
- Incentive Amount: Up to 2,500,000 TL per company annually.
- Key Requirement: The software or tools must be used specifically for international market strategies and the invoices must be issued to the company.
3. App Store and Platform Commission Reimbursement
- Incentive Amount: Up to 4,000,000 TL per app annually, with a total company limit of 20,000,000 TL per year.
- Key Requirement: The app or game must be published under the company’s own store accounts, and the sales must be made to users outside of Turkey.
4. Cloud and Hosting Infrastructure Support
- Incentive Amount: Up to 5,000,000 TL annually at a 50% reimbursement rate.
- The “Language” Clause: If the supported application or software includes Turkish language support, the reimbursement rate is adjusted to 25%.
- Key Requirement: Payments must be made via corporate banking channels (corporate cards or accounts), and applications must be submitted within 6 months of the payment date
Tax Incentives That Maximize Profitability
Turkey offers a highly competitive tax regime tailored for software exporters:
- Corporate Tax Rate: Reduced to just 4% for software export revenue.
- Technopark Advantages: Companies operating in Turkey’s Technoparks enjoy a 0% corporate tax rate on income from software development activities. This exemption is available until 2028, creating substantial cost-saving opportunities.
For non-gaming app companies, these tax advantages, coupled with operational grants, create a fertile environment for scaling internationally while minimizing expenses.
Is It Complicated to Set Up in Turkey?
Not at all. Whether you’re starting a new company or acquiring an existing one, the process is straightforward. Acquiring a one-year-old company is often a smart move, as it fast-tracks eligibility for incentives. Once your company is established, publishing your app through a Turkish store account and handling expenditures via a local bank account are the only requirements to access these benefits.
Why Turkey Is the Right Choice for Mobile App Companies
The combination of advertising grants of up to $1,200,000, tax exemptions, and operational support makes Turkey a strategic destination for non-gaming app developers. These incentives are rare opportunities that shouldn’t be overlooked.
If I, as a foreigner, could navigate this process smoothly, so can you. Turkey isn’t just a place to grow your business; it’s a partner in your success.
Explore Your Options with Expert Guidance
For more information on how to maximize Turkey’s mobile app incentives, consider consulting Finahukuk, a legal and incentive consultancy firm that has worked with over 200 mobile app companies. Their expertise in both legal compliance and incentive programs makes them an invaluable partner for navigating the Turkish market.