Turkish Businessperson Visa UK 

The Turkish Businessperson Visa UK was a unique immigration route introduced under the Ankara Agreement between the United Kingdom and Turkey. Designed specifically for Turkish nationals, this visa enabled eligible applicants to establish, manage, or invest in businesses within the UK. Although no new applications have been accepted since 31 December 2020 , many existing holders can still apply for visa extensions or even work towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) offering a valuable path to long-term residency and stability.

This guide provides a comprehensive yet accessible breakdown of the Turkish Businessperson Visa UK , covering key topics such as eligibility criteria, renewal requirements, and alternative visa options for Turkish entrepreneurs looking to do business in the UK today.

What Is the Turkish Businessperson Visa?

The Turkish Businessperson Visa UK was part of the Ankara Agreement, a treaty between the UK and Turkey. The visa allowed Turkish citizens to either set up or invest in a business in the UK. Applicants had to demonstrate a sound business plan and available capital.

After the UK left the European Union, the visa closed to new applications on 31 December 2020. However, individuals already in the UK under this scheme can still extend their stay or pursue Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if they meet the criteria.

Can You Still Apply for This Visa in 2025?

No, new applications are not possible. But if you:

• Were already granted the visa before 1 January 2021, and
• Remained compliant with the route’s requirements, 

then you may be able to extend your stay or apply for ILR.

If you missed the deadline, you’ll need to choose an alternative route such as the Skilled Worker visa, Innovator Founder visa, or Start-up visa, subject to eligibility.

Extension Requirements for Turkish Businessperson Visa

Who Is Eligible to Extend?

• Turkish nationals granted the visa prior to 1 January 2021
• Applicants must still be actively running a genuine UK business

What Must You Show?

• The business remains viable and trading, generating income
• You continue to meet the original visa conditions, such as investment levels and business involvement
• You can still support yourself and any dependants financially
• You remain actively involved in the daily business operations

Being able to prove ongoing engagement with the business and steady income is key to securing an extension.

How to Apply for an Extension

Application Process

• Apply online through the UKVI portal
• Submit supporting business evidence
• Pay applicable fees there is no standard visa fee, but biometric enrolment and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) may apply
• Wait for a decision, which typically takes around 6 months

Documents Required

Include documents such as:

• Business bank statements showing income and expenses
• Proof of self-employment, e.g. invoices, contracts, or tax filings
• Personal bank records to demonstrate financial independence
• Updates on business activity, new contracts or market growth

Providing complete and clear evidence helps ensure your application makes it through smoothly.

Applying for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

After 5 years on the Turkish Businessperson visa, you may become eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) the permanent residency status.

ILR Requirements

• A genuinely active business, operating consistently over the years
• Continuous UK residence with limited absences
• Proficiency in English (B1 level)
• Passing the Life in the UK Test

If your application succeeds, ILR grants you the freedom to live and work in the UK indefinitely.

What About Dependants?

Your family spouse, civil partner, or children under 18 may join you in the UK under this route.

• They must hold dependant status
• Dependants can work and study while in the UK
• They are eligible to apply for ILR after 5 years alongside the main applicant

Dependants must remain in the UK during your stay under the Ankara Agreement visa and continue to meet all requirements.

What If You Missed the Deadline?

If you did not have the visa before 31 December 2020, you cannot apply under this route anymore.

Instead, explore other options:

• Skilled Worker visa – a route tied to employer sponsorship
• Innovator Founder visa – ideal for experienced entrepreneurs
• Start-up visa – suitable for early stage business founders

Each visa has its own requirements and potential for settlement.

FAQs – Turkish Businessperson Visa UK

Is the Turkish Businessperson visa still available? 

No. New applications have not been accepted since 31 December 2020.

Can I extend my Turkish Businessperson visa in 2025? 

Yes if you held it before closure and still run a genuine business in the UK.

Does this visa lead to settlement? 

Yes. After completing 5 years, you may apply for ILR subject to meeting the requirements.

Can my family stay in the UK on this visa? 

Yes. Dependants may stay and apply for ILR with you, provided they hold valid status throughout.

The Turkish Businessperson Visa UK was a key route for Turkish entrepreneurs until brevity forced its closure. Thankfully, those who already held the visa have a valuable opportunity to extend their stay or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, provided they continue meeting the conditions.

Even though no new applications can now be made, the route remains relevant for many Turkish nationals. If you’ve established a successful business in the UK, you may still gain long-term residence – and your family can join you every step of the way.

Need Help Extending Your Turkish Businessperson Visa UK or Applying for ILR? 

If you’re a Turkish national who established a business in the UK under the Ankara Agreement, you may still be eligible to extend your stay or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)  but only if you meet strict ongoing requirements.

At solicitors in Manchester , we specialise in helping entrepreneurs like you navigate the extension process or prepare a strong case for permanent residency. Whether you’ve been running your business for years or need help proving its viability, our immigration experts offer clear, practical support tailored to your situation.

Call us today on  0161 464 4140 or Book an Appointment for FREE UK immigration advice.

Let us handle the legal details so you can focus on growing your business and securing your family’s future in the UK. Still have questions about your eligibility or what documents you need? We’re here to help every step of the way.