Recent developments regarding the ECAA Turkish Businessperson visa extensions and indefinite leave to remain, under the Ankara Agreement, have raised concerns among applicants and industry experts. Since the transfer of the unit managing these cases from Sheffield to Liverpool in November 2025, applicants have been experiencing extended waiting times and facing stricter scrutiny, leading to increased refusals. Although the official rules have not been altered, their application appears to be more rigorous, focusing heavily on technicalities like billing procedures, bank payment references, and website appearances, rather than on the core issue of whether a business is genuinely established and operated in the UK. Tamer Ulay, who assessed the situation, highlighted that these administrative details should not overshadow the legitimacy of a business if it is indeed functioning and supporting the applicant’s family.
The article emphasizes that businesses, especially small ones, might not have perfect administrative setups, such as flawless invoicing systems or comprehensive websites. While these aspects can be part of the evaluation process, they should not automatically lead to rejection, as this approach does not align with the realities of business operations. The lengthy processing times for applications are also a significant concern, affecting business planning, travel, education, and family finances. The assessment suggests that if the same grounds for refusal repeatedly occur, it might indicate a shift in practice rather than isolated issues with individual applications.
Importantly, the article clarifies that it does not support fraudulent or shell businesses but stresses that legitimate business owners should not be unfairly treated due to technical or administrative errors. The distinction between genuine and fraudulent applications should be clear, allowing real entrepreneurs to continue their operations without undue hindrance.
VisaFree World advises applicants under the Ankara Agreement to meticulously prepare their documentation, be aware of common refusal grounds, and seek professional legal assistance when necessary. It is crucial for each application to be evaluated on its specific merits, as the content provided is not intended to serve as personalized legal advice.
VisaFree World, which publishes content in Turkish about immigration, visas, and settlement in the UK and beyond, focuses on issues surrounding the Ankara Agreement, visa refusals, and related legal processes. They encourage informed and strategic approaches to navigating the complexities of immigration law.