The Ankara Agreement UK After Brexit: What You Need to Know
As the United Kingdom prepares to leave the European Union, many citizens and residents are concerned about the implications for immigration and travel. One of the key agreements in question is the Ankara Agreement, which allows Turkish citizens to live and work in the UK as self-employed businesspeople. Here are the key facts you need to know about the Ankara Agreement UK after Brexit.
What is the Ankara Agreement?
The Ankara Agreement is a treaty between the EU and Turkey that allows Turkish nationals to establish businesses in the EU and EFTA (European Free Trade Association) countries. The agreement was signed in 1963, but it wasn`t until 1973 that Turkey became an associate member of the European Economic Community (EEC), which later became the European Union. The Ankara Agreement is still in force and applies to all EU member states, including the UK.
How does the Ankara Agreement apply to the UK?
Under the Ankara Agreement, Turkish nationals who are self-employed and have been legally resident in the UK for at least one year can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR). This allows them to stay in the UK permanently and is a path to British citizenship. Turkish nationals can also apply for a visa as a self-employed person or as a representative of a Turkish business in the UK.
What will happen to the Ankara Agreement UK after Brexit?
The UK`s departure from the EU will have implications for the Ankara Agreement. However, the exact details of what will happen are still being negotiated between the UK and Turkey. In the meantime, Turkish citizens who are self-employed and legally resident in the UK can continue to apply for ILR and visas under the Ankara Agreement.
It is worth noting that the UK government has said that it intends to honor existing agreements between the EU and Turkey, including the Ankara Agreement. However, it is not yet clear whether the UK will negotiate a new agreement with Turkey specifically.
What should Turkish citizens in the UK do?
If you are a Turkish citizen living and working in the UK, it is important to stay up to date on the latest developments regarding the Ankara Agreement. You can check the UK government`s website for information on visas and immigration, as well as the Turkish Embassy in London for updates on the situation.
You should also consult with an immigration lawyer or advisor if you have any questions or concerns about your status in the UK. They can help you understand your rights and options under the current regulations, as well as any changes that may be coming in the future.
In conclusion, the Ankara Agreement UK after Brexit is still a matter of uncertainty and negotiation. However, Turkish citizens who are self-employed and legally resident in the UK can still apply for ILR and visas under the current regulations. Stay informed and seek professional advice if you have any questions or concerns about your status in the UK.