How to Create a Cryptocurrency Exchange Platform in Turkey
Turkey has one of the largest and fastest-growing crypto markets in the world.
By the end of 2023, more than half of the population was involved, and the total trading volume reached $170 billion.
This makes Turkey a great opportunity for anyone who wants to create a cryptocurrency or launch a crypto project.
But how can you start?
In this article from DigiAlpha, we will explain everything you need to know before creating a cryptocurrency in Turkey.
Crypto in Turkey: Is it legal? updated regulations (2025)
In Turkey, cryptocurrencies are seen as assets, not as money or payment tools. This means people can buy, sell, or keep coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others. But they are not allowed to use them for shopping or daily payments. In 2021, the Central Bank of Turkey officially banned the use of crypto for payments.
Turkey has strong rules to fight money laundering (AML) and terrorist financing (CFT). Crypto companies, like exchanges, must follow these rules. They must check the identity of their users (KYC), report suspicious activities, train their staff, and keep customer and transaction data for 8 years. Breaking these rules can lead to big fines or even prison for company managers.
Right now, people don’t pay tax on profits from crypto trading. But the Turkish government is working on a tax plan that may start soon. Mining crypto is legal, but because it uses a lot of electricity and affects the environment, miners must get a cryptocurrency exchange license in Turkey.
There are no clear laws yet for ICOs (Initial Coin Offerings) or Security Tokens in Turkey. But if they are similar to traditional securities, the Capital Markets Board (CMB) may regulate them.
Finally, the Central Bank of Turkey is working on a national digital currency (CBDC). Test phases have already started with some local financial groups. This shows the government is open to using new financial technologies like blockchain.
Make sure to read: Build Your Own Decentralized Exchange (DEX) | Portfolio & Free Consultation
How to start a cryptocurrency exchange in Turkey: Step by Step
To start a crypto company in Turkey, you must have an idea of Cost of Maintaining a Crypto Exchange in this country. Then you must follow certain legal, technical, and financial steps:
1. Company registration
First, you need to register your company with the Turkish Trade Registry. This includes preparing the company’s articles of association, choosing directors, submitting ID documents of shareholders, and setting an official company address.
For this follow these steps:
2. Getting a cryptocurrency exchange license in Turkey
According to Law No. 7518 (passed in July 2024), digital asset service providers (such as exchanges) must get a license from the Capital Markets Board of Turkey (SPK). To do this, your company must:
- Have a minimum paid capital of 150 million Turkish lira.
- Provide a full business plan with market analysis, marketing strategies, and financial forecasts.
- Have proper corporate governance with at least 8 key employees in different departments.
- Create policies for AML (Anti-Money Laundering), KYC (Know Your Customer), data security, and emergency plans.
- Submit independent audit reports for your IT and financial systems.
3. Technical and security infrastructure
Your company must build strong technical systems to handle crypto transactions, including:
- Secure trading platforms and digital wallets.
- Security features like multi-factor authentication and data encryption.
- Backup systems, data management, and a response plan for cyber incidents.
4. Legal and regulatory requirements
Crypto companies in Turkey must also:
- Become a member of the Capital Markets Association of Turkey.
- Report suspicious transactions to the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK).
- Pay yearly regulatory fees to SPK and TÜBİTAK.
- Follow all laws strictly — breaking the rules can lead to large fines or license cancellation.
5. Taxes and financial rules
Currently, there is no direct tax on crypto income in Turkey. However, the government is planning to introduce taxes on crypto transactions in the near future.
6. Notes for Foreign Investors
Foreign investors can also start a crypto company in Turkey. They must:
- Get the required licenses from Turkish authorities.
- Choose a legal company structure that fits Turkish laws.
- Work with local lawyers to make sure they follow all the rules.
7. Starting a cryptocurrency exchange in turkey
To make an application for a cryptocurrency exchange in Istanbul, you need to find a trusted software company. DigiAlpha is one of the most trusted software companies in the Middle East, with over five years of successful experience in the fintech and blockchain industry. We have completed many projects and achieved more than 95% customer satisfaction. We also continues to grow by developing advanced digital solutions and helping clients build strong tech platforms.
We help you to choose a ready-made crypto exchange in Turkey to launch faster or build a custom platform with features like:
- Secure wallet system
- Order matching engine
- Admin dashboard
- Trading charts and tools
- API access
- Security modules like cold wallet storage
After your platform is ready, we also help you to attract users. We can do this through:
- Digital marketing
- Social media ads
- Sign-up rewards
- Referral campaigns
- Influencer partnerships
Conclusion
Turkey’s crypto market is growing fast, with over $170 billion recently. To start a crypto exchange in this country, you need to register a company, open a bank account, and comply with AML/KYC rules. Also, you need a trusted software company.
DigiAlpha is one of the most trusted software companies in the Middle East, with over five years of successful experience in fintech and blockchain. We have earned more than 95% customer satisfaction through our expert and innovative team. So if you want to create a cryptocurrency exchange in Turkey, DigiAlpha is ready to offer a free consultation to check your needs and suggest the best solution. Contact us for more information, a demo, or cost estimates of our products: