Changes to the immigration law regarding the Ukraine Extension Scheme (scheme for extending stay in the UK for Ukrainians and their families) came into effect on July 17, 2023. According to the new rules:
Please refer to the official Ukraine Extension Scheme page (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-to-stay-in-the-uk-under-the-ukraine-extension-scheme) for more detailed information.
Rules and conditions for applying to other "Ukrainian" schemes - Homes for Ukraine sponsorship or Ukraine Family Scheme - REMAIN UNCHANGED. These schemes are still active, and there are no set dates for the end of the application period. Additionally, none of the "Ukrainian" visas can be extended beyond three years of stay and do not lead to the right to permanent residency in the UK.
- Applicants who held a valid UK visa at any time between March 18, 2022, and November 16, 2023 (the validity period doesn't necessarily have to cover the entire period) can apply for the Ukraine Extension Scheme until May 16, 2024.
- The scheme applies to all individuals with British visas such as Tier 5 seasonal worker visa, Standard Visitor visa, or Skilled Worker visa. Transition from Homes for Ukraine or Ukraine Family Scheme to the Ukraine Extension Scheme is no longer allowed.
- Applcants still need to be on the UK territory to apply for the Ukraine Extension Scheme.
- The waiting time for a decision on the Extension application ranges from a few days to 6 months, sometimes longer. The current refusal rate stands at 10.5% (as of July 11, 2023).
- Applicants awaiting a decision on their extension application must adhere to the rules of their initial visa. For instance, people on a tourist or seasonal worker visa would be prohibited from working, renting long-term accommodation, accessing social benefits and free healthcare, and would not be eligible for homelessness assistance.
Please refer to the official Ukraine Extension Scheme page (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-to-stay-in-the-uk-under-the-ukraine-extension-scheme) for more detailed information.
Rules and conditions for applying to other "Ukrainian" schemes - Homes for Ukraine sponsorship or Ukraine Family Scheme - REMAIN UNCHANGED. These schemes are still active, and there are no set dates for the end of the application period. Additionally, none of the "Ukrainian" visas can be extended beyond three years of stay and do not lead to the right to permanent residency in the UK.