Rejection rates have increased: The residence permit crisis of Turkish entrepreneurs in the UK is growing

Hundreds of Turkish entrepreneurs who set up companies in the UK have seen their applications for permanent residency (settlement) rejected, with some refusals reportedly based on criteria not set out in the legislation and applications assessed incorrectly. The rejections have left many facing the possible loss of their right to remain in the country, and those affected say they are anxious about the situation. The dispute matters because the UK's points-based and settlement rules are central to attracting and retaining foreign founders who create jobs and investment. What to watch next is whether the rejected applicants challenge the decisions through appeals or administrative review, and whether the Home Office clarifies how it assesses self-employed founders' residency claims.