UK Visa for Ukrainians and family members
There are currently two such schemes: the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (for applications from outside the UK) and the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (for applications from inside the UK for those who already hold leave under one of the Ukrainian schemes, current or historical). Ukrainian nationals and their close family members – who are not necessarily Ukrainian nationals themselves – may be able to apply.
Applying for the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme visa (Homes for Ukraine)
The Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme allows you and your family members to come to the UK with the support of a named sponsor, who offers accommodation for a minimum of six months. This visa is free to apply for, and you will be able to study, work and live in the UK.
Eligibility requirements Homes for Ukraine
To apply for this visa scheme, you must be a Ukrainian national, either 18 or older, or apply with a parent or guardian if you are under 18. You must be outside the UK to apply for this visa and have an eligible UK-based sponsor. Only immediate family members are eligible to join you on this visa, including your spouse, unmarried partner with more than two years of cohabitation, a child under 18 or a parent if you are under the legal age of 18.
Sponsors must be based in the UK, be 18 or over and have at least six months’ permission for UK residency. As a sponsor, you’ll be required to submit either biometrics or a valid ID document such as a passport or driving license for the UK or Ireland. You must also meet suitability requirements for safeguarding and confirm you have accommodation available for at least six months in the UK.
How to apply for the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme visa
Prove your identity
You have proper documentation and provide that information through the UK Immigration: ID check or attending a VAC is essential.
Provide evidence of eligibility
The sponsor must supply relevant documentation and information to prove their identity. If your sponsor has a UKVI account, this can be used to submit documentation online, which helps support your application.
Await approval outside the UK
Once you and your sponsor have submitted the necessary documentation, you must wait outside the UK for the decision. Once approved, you can arrange to travel to the UK to stay with your sponsor.
Need help with your UK visa for Ukrainians / family members?
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Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme
You can extend your leave whichever form of Ukraine scheme leave you currently hold, either the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine) leave, the Ukraine Family Scheme leave (which is now abolished for new entrants) or the Ukraine Extension Scheme leave.
UPE leave is granted for either 18 months or 24 months, depending on what kind of leave you currently hold, and you can apply up to 90 days before your leave expires. The application is free.
