A recent analysis has spotlighted issues surrounding the ECAA Turkish Businessperson visa process, commonly referred to as the Ankara Agreement. The relocation of the processing unit from Sheffield to Liverpool in November 2025 has reportedly led to extended waiting times and an uptick in rejections based on technicalities. According to Tamer Ulay, the article’s author, while the official visa rules have not been overtly rewritten, their application has become more stringent, with minor administrative errors now playing a significant role in visa refusals. The focus has shifted to elements like billing practices, bank transactions, and document presentation, rather than the core business operations and sustainability.
The Ankara Agreement was traditionally centered on verifying whether the applicant had genuinely established and was operating a business in the UK. Ulay argues that the current practice of highlighting technical deficiencies undermines this focus. He emphasizes that small businesses, which may not have perfect accounting or flawless documentation, should not be penalized if they are genuinely functional and contributing to the economy. The article suggests that the current approach could disproportionately affect those who have successfully maintained their business operations and fulfilled tax obligations over the years.
Furthermore, the lengthy processing times for applications are creating additional stress for applicants and their families, affecting everything from business planning to personal life decisions. The delay in processing can disrupt travel plans, children’s schooling, and financial management, adding significant pressure to already complex immigration processes. The article points out that when similar reasons for refusal appear across multiple cases, it might indicate a systemic shift rather than isolated incidents.
While the article does not support fraudulent applications, it stresses the importance of distinguishing between legitimate business owners and those with questionable intentions. It advises applicants to meticulously prepare their documentation and seek legal guidance to navigate the more rigid assessment criteria. Recognizing the unique nature of each application, the article notes that evaluations should be based on specific circumstances rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
VisaFree World, the platform behind the analysis, serves as a resource for information on immigration and settlement processes, focusing on UK immigration law and the Ankara Agreement among other topics. It provides insights into visa refusals and legal recourse, urging applicants to be strategic and informed in their approach to immigration challenges.