ECAA Turkish Businessperson Visa
In the context of the UK, this agreement allowed Turkish nationals to apply for a Turkish Businessperson Visa, which enabled them to start a new business or join an existing business in the UK under more flexible conditions than other immigration routes.
However, as of 1 January 2021, following Brexit, the UK officially ceased participation in the Ankara Agreement.
As a result:
- New applications are no longer accepted under the ECAA Turkish Businessperson route
- Those who were already in the UK under this route can still apply for extensions or indefinite leave to remain (ILR), provided they meet the relevant requirements
Eligibility Criteria for the Turkish Businessperson Visa
To qualify under this visa route (while it was still open), applicants had to meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Be a Turkish national
- Business Plan: Intend to start a new business or join an existing business in the UK. The business had to be genuine, viable and economically sustainable
- Investment: No set minimum investment was required, but applicants needed to show they had sufficient funds to establish and run the business
- English Language: No formal language requirement, but sufficient English was necessary for business operations
- No Employment: The visa did not permit working as an employee; it was strictly for self-employment or business ownership
- Good Character: Must not have a criminal record or pose a risk to the UK
Extending Your Turkish Businessperson Visa
Rules and Requirements for Visa Extension
- You must still be running a genuine business in the UK
- Your business must be successful and sustainable
- You cannot be employed (only self-employed)
- You must support yourself and your family without needing public funds
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an Extension
- Apply online through the UK government website
- Pay the fee and upload your documents
- Book and attend a biometric appointment
- Wait for a decision while staying in the UK
Essential Supporting Documents for Your Extension Application
- Passport and current visa
- Business evidence: accounts, invoices, contracts, tax returns
- Proof of income: bank statements, financial reports
- Proof of business ownership (if applicable)
Application Fees and Associated Costs
The visa itself is free.
You must pay for:
- Biometric enrolment (£19.20)
- Optional premium services (if chosen)
Processing Times: How Long Does the Extension Take?
Usually takes up to 6 months. You can stay in the UK legally while waiting for a decision.
Addressing Extension Application Refusals: Next Steps
If your extension is refused, you may request an administrative review or you may be able to reapply with stronger documents. (It’s best to get legal advice)
Bringing Family Members to the UK
If you’re already in the UK under the Turkish Businessperson visa (from before the route closed in 2021), you can apply to bring your spouse.
How to Bring Your Spouse to the UK Post-2022
- Your spouse must show a genuine relationship (marriage or long-term partner)
- You must both plan to live together permanently in the UK
- Apply online and attend a biometric appointment
Guidelines for Bringing Dependent Children to the UK
You can also bring children (under 18) if:
- They’re not married and dependent on you
- You and your partner (if applying together) have sole responsibility for the child
- You can provide suitable housing and financial support without public funds
Pathway to Settlement and Citizenship
Does the Turkish Businessperson Visa Lead to UK Settlement or British Citizenship?
Yes. If you entered the UK under this visa before it closed in 2021, you can still apply for:
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years
- Then apply for British citizenship after holding ILR for 12 months
Requirements and Process for Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
To qualify for ILR, you must:
- Have lived in the UK for 5 years under this visa
- Show your business is still active and successful
- Have no serious criminal record
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
- Meet the English language requirement
- Hold ILR for at least 12 months
- Be in the UK for at least 5 years total
- Have no long absences from the UK
- Pass Life in the UK Test (if not already)
- Apply online and attend a citizenship ceremony
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend My UK Business Visa While in Turkey?
No, you cannot extend your Turkish Businessperson visa from outside the UK. You must be physically in the UK to apply for an extension. If you’re in Turkey, you’ll need to return to the UK first, provided your current visa hasn’t expired.
Can I Extend My Business Visa While in the UK?
Yes, if you’re already in the UK on a Turkish Businessperson visa, you can apply for an extension from inside the UK—as long as you meet the requirements and your current visa hasn’t expired.
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