Please note that UNHCR UK does not manage UK visa schemes.
The UK Government offers several visa and protection options for Ukrainian nationals. Below is an overview of the main routes and related advice.
Coming to the UK
Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme
- Open for new applications from Ukrainian nationals who lived in Ukraine before 1 January 2022, and to their immediate family members (for example spouse/partner and children under 18) who may be other nationalities.
- Requires a UK-based sponsor who can provide accommodation for at least 6 months. The sponsor must be a British or Irish citizen or settled in the UK (having Indefinite Leave to Remain) unless the sponsor is a parent or legal guardian seeking to host their child, provided they hold permission under any of the Ukraine Schemes.
- Grants permission to live, work, study, and access to public services.
- Current grants are for 18 months (previously 3 years for applications before February 2024).
Ukraine Family Scheme
- Closed to new applicants in February 2024.
- Existing beneficiaries keep their leave but cannot sponsor new applications.
Extending Your Stay
Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) Scheme
- People already in the UK under the Ukraine schemes may apply to extend their permission to stay.
- Applicants must apply from within the UK and must not leave the UK while their application is being processed.
- Applications submitted from outside the UK are not valid and may be rejected by the Home Office.
- Applications should be made within 28 days before current permission expires.
- There is no application fee and no immigration health surcharge.
- Eligible individuals can first apply for an additional 18 months of permission to stay.
- After that, they may apply for a further 24‑month extension.
- Time spent in the UK under these schemes does not count towards permanent settlement.
Other Options
- Ukrainians may apply for standard UK visas (e.g., Skilled Worker, Student, Family) if they meet requirements.
- If eligible for visa schemes, you are expected to use those routes.
- The asylum system is separate from visa schemes.
Returning to Ukraine
For information on short-term and long term-visits to Ukraine and how they affect your status, voluntary return to Ukraine and available assistance please visit Ukraine is Home platform.
Updated in January 2026
