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The Ankara Agreement is a partnership treaty signed in 1963 between the Republic of Türkiye and the European Economic Community, granting Turkish citizens the right to establish and run a business in certain European countries under specific conditions. Although applications were temporarily suspended during the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, the UK Home Office has recently announced that it has resumed reviewing applications submitted under the Ankara Agreement.

At Marsel Visa, we emphasise the importance of a professional and well-prepared application process for Ankara Agreement visas. Your application must include a detailed business plan aimed at creating employment in the UK, a clear financial projection of expected income and expenses, and thorough market research. Our expert team ensures that your application meets the expectations and requirements of the UK Home Office.

📌 Scope and Advantages of the Ankara Agreement

Today, the Ankara Agreement is actively applied only to citizens of the Republic of Türkiye. Through this visa, you gain the right to establish and operate your own business in the UK. Initial approvals are generally granted for one year, during which you must document your activities in line with your business plan. This enables you to extend your visa for an additional three years. Upon successfully completing a total of four years of lawful business activity, you may apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR). After holding ILR for one year, you become eligible to apply for British citizenship.

The Ankara Agreement is one of the fastest routes to immigration in the UK. There is no requirement for a university degree or advanced English proficiency. To submit a strong application, you must demonstrate relevant experience and, where applicable, certificates in your chosen field. You may work as a self-employed professional, establish a new business, or take over an existing one. There is no obligation to employ staff. Approved applicants can include their spouse and children under 18 in their application for family reunification. Spouses can work independently or set up their own business in the UK.

📌 Application Requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of professional experience and skills relevant to the proposed business plan. While a sufficient level of English for daily life is expected, there is no requirement to present an official language exam. The initial one-year residence permit can be extended for three years by providing proof of continued activities according to the business plan. If your earnings are significantly below the projected level, your extension may be refused or granted for only one additional year.

After four years of lawful and compliant economic activity in the UK, applicants may apply for indefinite leave to remain. One year after receiving ILR, you may apply for British citizenship.

📌 Ankara Agreement Worker Visa

The Ankara Agreement is not limited to business establishment; eligible applicants can also work in the UK under a worker visa. To qualify, you must have worked continuously for at least one year with the same employer, have had valid work authorisation during that period, and provide a guarantee of continued employment. Worker visa holders may change jobs after three years, provided the change is approved by the relevant authorities. Any interruption in employment due to health or family reasons must be promptly reported to the UK Home Office.

📌 Family Reunification

The Ankara Agreement visa also covers spouses and children under 18. Family members enjoy the right to work or establish their own businesses independently of the principal visa holder’s business. This makes it easier for families to settle and integrate economically in the UK.

📌 Refusals and the Right to Appeal

Applications may be refused if not prepared with sufficient research and attention to detail. In the case of a refusal, applicants may request an Administrative Review. At Marsel Visa, we offer all necessary services—business plan preparation, translation, market research, and application guidance—under one roof to maximise your chances of success.

📌 Popular Professions under the Ankara Agreement in the UK

Popular fields for Ankara Agreement visa holders in the UK include IT services, legal consultancy, education, technical services, construction, cleaning, trade, food and beverage management, design, and textiles. Applicants with strong experience and a clear plan in these sectors significantly increase their chances of approval.

📍 Contact Us

📧 info@marselvisa.com