Business setup and operations in Istanbul, Türkiye — Rafiq coordination guide
This guide helps foreigners in Istanbul who are exploring practical support for setting up or operating a restaurant, café or small business. It explains typical tasks you may face, what to prepare before asking for help, and how Rafiq coordinates next steps with specialist partners and providers.
What business setup and operations can involve
Starting or running a food or retail business in Istanbul can include concept planning and menus, commercial location scouting, arranging licences or approvals through partners, sourcing suppliers, hiring staff, and building a simple business website. Some steps require specialist services such as architects, contractors, or licensing consultants; Rafiq coordinates services directly where possible and connects you to vetted local partners for specialist work.
Practical preparation before requesting help
Before you ask Rafiq to coordinate support, gather clear notes about your concept, preferred neighbourhoods, rough budget range, desired opening or project timeline, and any existing contracts or property details. Photographs, floor plans or a sample menu help partners assess feasibility. Also note your language preference and whether you already have local contacts. These items are helpful but requirements and final decisions depend on the competent authorities and providers.
How Rafiq coordinates next steps and why official confirmation matters
Rafiq acts as a coordination platform: we organise introductions, request quotes, schedule viewings or consultations, and help manage communications between you and specialist partners. Some services are handled by Rafiq staff; others are arranged through independent partners. Rafiq does not act as a government authority, insurer, hospital, lawyer, accountant, bank, university, or real-estate seller. Any permit approvals, legal conclusions, availability, prices or final decisions must be confirmed by the relevant authority or service provider.
Common questions
Can Rafiq obtain licences or permits on my behalf?
Rafiq can coordinate with partners who advise on licences and can submit requests where partners provide that service, but official approvals and final decisions are made by the competent authorities. Requirements and outcomes depend on each case and the relevant provider or authority.
Can Rafiq help find a commercial location or arrange viewings?
Yes. Rafiq can connect you with local scouts or partners, compile options that match your brief, and arrange viewings or remote tours. Rafiq is not a real-estate seller; availability and terms are set by landlords and agents.
What should I have ready for an initial coordination request?
Prepare a short project summary, preferred areas, a budget range, target timeline, photos or floor plans if available, and any questions for partners. This helps Rafiq match you to the right specialists quickly.
Official sources
The information on this page follows what these official authorities publish; the final decision in every procedure is theirs: