Turkish Nationals

In 1973, the UK became bound by the European Community Association Agreement (ECAA) also referred to as the Ankara Agreement. Under the Ankara Agreement, Turkish nationals are allowed to establish themselves as a worker or in a business in the UK. After a certain period of time, this could allow a Turkish national to attain Permanent Residence in the UK.

Please note that as of 1 January 2021 this route has closed to new applicants as the Brexit transition period has come to an end. This route is still open for extension applications. 

Zeynep Yalcin is often instructed by Turkish nationals who wish to remain in the UK as a worker or business person under the ECAA route. If you are a Turkish national considering extending your Turkish Businessperson visa, our team can assist you and help you understand the procedure. Zeynep is able to speak to you in Turkish if this is your preferred language.

If you are a Turkish national who wishes to apply to stay in the UK as Turkish Worker, you must have legally worked in the UK for at least a year on:

• a spouse visa, work permit and Student Visa (restricted to working 20 hours a week). If you wish to consider your options of applying for a Turkish Worker visa, contact our expert immigration solicitors today so we can explore your options and explain how long you can stay in the UK on a Turkish Worker visa.

We are often instructed by clients who wish to apply for an extension of stay in the UK so they can establish a business or if they already have a business in the UK, they can continue to operate their business under the Ankara Agreement. Once a Turkish National has completed 5 years lawfully in the UK under this visa, they may be entitled to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Our team are well informed with regard to the rules and regulations which apply to Turkish nationals and can meet with you to discuss your options for migrating to the UK or applying for settlement.