Concerns have emerged over recent changes in the process for extending the ECAA Turkish Businessperson visa and indefinite leave to remain under the Ankara Agreement. These concerns, highlighted in a report by Tamer Ulay, focus on the impact of the relocation of the unit handling these cases from Sheffield to Liverpool in November 2025. This move has reportedly resulted in prolonged waiting times and an increase in refusals based on technicalities. Ulay’s article argues that while the official guidelines have not been formally altered, they are being enforced more rigorously, with a notable rise in rejections based on issues such as billing procedures, bank payment references, ICO registration, and the appearance of business websites.
The core of the Ankara Agreement, as emphasized in the report, should be whether the applicant has genuinely established and is operating a business in the UK, rather than focusing solely on administrative or technical shortcomings. Ulay stresses that small business operations may not always have perfect invoicing systems or bank statements, and such deficiencies should not automatically lead to refusals. He argues that individuals who have consistently maintained their business activities, paid taxes, and supported their families should not have their applications appraised from a fault-finding perspective. The report notes that such an approach could result in outcomes that are disconnected from the realities of running a small business.
The lengthy processing times for these applications are also highlighted as a significant issue, placing considerable stress on applicants and their families. Prolonged waiting periods can have a direct impact on business planning, travel, children’s education, and financial decisions. The assessment notes that if similar reasons for refusal are frequently observed, this could indicate a broader, more systemic issue rather than being isolated to individual applications.
While the article does not defend fraudulent applications, it stresses the importance of distinguishing legitimate business owners from those with fraudulent intentions. VisaFree World advises applicants to meticulously prepare their documents, stay informed about common refusal grounds, and seek professional legal advice when needed. It is underscored that each application should be considered on its individual merits, with a reminder that the content is not a substitute for personal legal guidance.
VisaFree World provides a platform for information on immigration, visas, residency, and related topics, particularly focusing on UK immigration law and the Ankara Agreement. The platform aims to assist individuals navigating the complexities of international settlement processes, offering insights into visa refusals, administrative appeals, and judicial review procedures.