Business owner reviewing the documents required for a POS merchant application

For a POS device to be set up for a customer, the customer must have a legal entity status, such as a sole proprietorship, a commercial company, or a foundation/association.

POS devices cannot legally be issued to individual (private) customers.

Why is a commercial identity required?

A POS is a collection tool issued to merchants that sell goods or services by card. When signing the merchant agreement, the bank evaluates the merchant's tax registration, line of business, and the products and services it sells. Collections made through the POS are also recorded as the merchant's commercial income. For this reason, commercial documents such as a tax certificate and trade registry record are requested when applying for a POS.

Documents typically requested in the application

  • Tax certificate
  • Signature circular or signature declaration
  • Trade registry gazette or activity certificate (for companies)
  • Copy of ID and contact information
  • Bank account information

Banks may also request additional documents depending on the merchant's line of business.

Options for receiving payment as an individual

For individuals without commercial activity to receive card payments, methods other than a POS can be used. For transfers between friends, FAST, Easy Address (Kolay Adres), or the money transfer features in banks' mobile apps can be used. However, it should be kept in mind that if goods or services are sold regularly, this activity may be considered a commercial activity under tax regulations.