Turkish nationals face surge in UK removal cases after application errors

The Guardian reported a sharp increase in the number of Turkish nationals facing removal from the United Kingdom after errors were found in rejected applications for indefinite leave to remain. Since the start of the year, the Home Office has turned down a growing number of applications submitted under the European Community Association Agreement (ECAA) visa, a long‑standing route that allows Turkish entrepreneurs to establish businesses in the UK.

Lawyer David Lammy was among those raising concerns, saying the mistakes point to a failure by the Home Office to learn from the Windrush scandal. Critics argue that the rise in rejections could leave many Turkish residents without legal status, exposing them to possible deportation.

The surge in refusals has prompted calls for a review of the Home Office’s handling of ECAA applications and for safeguards to prevent further wrongful removals. Officials have not yet responded to the accusations, and the situation remains under scrutiny.

Why it matters

The increase in rejected applications threatens the residency of Turkish entrepreneurs and highlights ongoing concerns about the Home Office’s immigration procedures.

Key details

Location

Turkey · Middle East

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

8 Nov 2026, 12:30 IST

Key names

Turkish, UK, David Lammy, Concerns

Section

Politics

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The Guardian‘Windrush’ accusations over sharp rise in Turkish nationals facing removal from UK 8 Nov, 12:30

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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