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Visas for Romanian, Bulgarian & Turkish Nationals (ECAA)
If you’re a skilled Romanian, Bulgarian or Turkish National & you would like to open a business in the UK you may be able to apply for a European Community Association Agreement (ECAA) Visa. At Commonwealth Contractors we can guide you through the process of going into business & our OISC Immigration Partners can prepare a professional application.
The European Community Association Agreement allows citizens of Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey to live and work in the UK by starting a business of any size or business sector. The great thing about an ECAA visa is that unlike Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) you do not have to invest at least £200,000 in the UK and guarantee to create at least 2 full time jobs for settled workers. If you are a skilled IT professional you may find the ECAA visa a great way to work in the UK as a professional consultant.
ECAA visas are normally approved for an initial period of 2 years after which time an extension may be granted for a further 3 years. Visa extensions are approved where proof can be provided that the business has progressed in line with the original business plan. If the business has ceased trading, the visa holder has required access to public funds etc the visa will not be extended
How can Commonwealth Contractors help?
At Commonwealth Contractors our partners can guide you through the process of going into business & submitting a professionally represented ECAA visa application.Chartered Accountant Partners:
Our Chartered Accountant partners can ensure that your business operates properly. By providing professional accountancy & administrative services you can cut through the red tape and focus on delivering consultancy services.
OISC Immigration Partners:
Our OISC Immigration Partners can professionally represent your application
ECAA Visa Requirements
In order to qualify for an ECAA visa:- You must show that any money in the business will be under your control
- That sufficient funds are available to cover setup costs
- You must have sufficient maintenance funds to support yourself and your dependents
- You must declare that you will not look for any other form of employment in the UK and that you will work full time on the business
To apply you will need to prove:
- That you are a Romanian, Bulgarian or Turkish National (passport required)
- You have, or will have, a controlling interest in the business
- That the company will be registered and will trade in the UK
- That you will actively promote and control the business
- That you have a credible business plan
