Key Takeaways
• UK offers temporary visa schemes but no path to permanent residency for Ukrainian refugees as of June 2025.
• Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme remains open; other schemes like Ukraine Family Scheme are closed.
• Expired BRPs no longer valid from June 2, 2025; eVisas required for UK travel.
As of June 2025, thousands of Ukrainian refugees in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 find themselves facing an uncertain future. The UK government continues to offer temporary visa schemes, but there is still no pathway to permanent resettlement for those who fled the war in Ukraine 🇺🇦. This situation leaves many refugees in a state of limbo, unsure about their long-term status and what comes next for themselves and their families.
Who Is Affected and Why
Ukrainian refugees who arrived in the UK 🇬🇧 since the start of the war have relied on several visa schemes for safety and support. The most prominent of these is the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, which allows British citizens to sponsor Ukrainians and their family members, offering them a place to stay. Other schemes, such as the Ukraine Family Scheme and the Ukraine Extension Scheme, provided additional routes for entry and temporary protection. However, with some of these programs now closed and only short-term extensions available, refugees are left with few options for staying in the UK 🇬🇧 long-term.
The Ukrainian government, meanwhile, is urging its citizens to return home to help rebuild the country. In December 2023, Ukraine 🇺🇦 established the Ministry of National Unity to encourage and support the return of its people. This push comes as nearly 7 million Ukrainians remain abroad, many of whom have settled in the UK 🇬🇧 and other European countries.
The Current Visa Schemes for Ukrainian Refugees
The UK 🇬🇧 government responded to the Ukrainian crisis by creating several visa schemes designed to offer temporary protection and support. Here’s a breakdown of the main programs:
1. Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme
- What it is: This scheme allows individuals and families in the UK 🇬🇧 to sponsor Ukrainians and their immediate family members, providing them with accommodation and support.
- Who can apply: Ukrainians fleeing the war and their family members.
- Status: The scheme remains open, and sponsors continue to play a vital role in helping refugees settle and integrate into UK 🇬🇧 communities.
2. Ukraine Family Scheme
- What it was: This route allowed Ukrainians with family members already living in the UK 🇬🇧 to join them.
- Status: The scheme has now closed, meaning new applications are no longer accepted.
3. Ukraine Extension Scheme
- What it was: Opened in May 2022, this scheme allowed Ukrainians and their close family members who were already in the UK 🇬🇧 on temporary visas before March 18, 2022, to extend their stay for three years.
- Status: The scheme closed on May 16, 2024, except for children born in the UK 🇬🇧.
4. Ukrainian Protection Extension Visa
- What it is: Introduced in February 2025, this visa offers an 18-month extension to those whose initial three-year visas are set to expire this year.
- Key point: This extension does not provide a path to permanent residency or settlement in the UK 🇬🇧.
For more details on the current visa schemes and how to apply, the UK government provides official guidance on support for Ukrainian nationals.
Recent Changes and New Requirements
The UK 🇬🇧 government has made several changes to its immigration rules in 2025, affecting Ukrainian refugees and others seeking to move to the country. These changes are part of a broader effort to tighten immigration policies.
One important update is the move from Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) to eVisas. From June 2, 2025, expired BRPs can no longer be used for travel to the UK 🇬🇧. Refugees must now use an eVisa instead. This change means that anyone whose BRP has expired must apply for an eVisa before traveling.
The Application Process: Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme
For those whose initial three-year visa is expiring, the Ukrainian Protection Extension Visa offers a temporary solution. Here’s how the process works:
- Check Eligibility: You must have an initial three-year visa that is due to expire this year.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of your current visa and identity.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the official government website. You can find step-by-step instructions and the application form on the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme page.
- eVisa Requirement: If your BRP has expired, make sure to apply for an eVisa before traveling to the UK 🇬🇧.
Important: The current extension is for 18 months only and does not lead to permanent residency.
The Human Impact: Life in Limbo
For many Ukrainian refugees, the lack of a permanent resettlement option is a source of deep worry. Over the past three years, thousands have built new lives in the UK 🇬🇧. Children have started school, adults have found work, and families have become part of their local communities. The uncertainty about what happens after their visas expire makes it hard to plan for the future.
Community Integration: Many refugees, especially children, have formed strong bonds with their classmates, teachers, and neighbors. The thought of leaving these new friends and returning to a country still affected by war is difficult for many families.
Emotional Toll: The constant uncertainty takes a toll on mental health. Refugees often feel caught between two worlds—unable to return home safely, but also unsure if they can stay in the UK 🇬🇧 for the long term.
Practical Challenges: Without a path to permanent residency, refugees face barriers to finding stable housing, long-term employment, and access to certain benefits. This makes it harder to fully settle and contribute to their new communities.
Perspectives from Stakeholders
Refugees
Many Ukrainian refugees express a strong desire to stay in the UK 🇬🇧. They point to the safety, stability, and sense of belonging they have found since arriving. Some worry about the dangers and hardships they might face if they return to Ukraine 🇺🇦, especially if their homes have been destroyed or their communities are still unsafe.
Ukrainian Government
The Ukrainian government is encouraging its citizens to return home. In December 2023, it created the Ministry of National Unity to help coordinate the return and reintegration of Ukrainians living abroad. Officials say that bringing people back is important for rebuilding the country and strengthening national unity.
UK Government
The UK 🇬🇧 government has focused on providing temporary protection rather than permanent resettlement. The Home Office has not announced any plans for further visa extensions or new pathways to settlement. This approach reflects a broader trend of tightening immigration rules and limiting long-term options for refugees.
Policy Implications and Broader Effects
The current approach to Ukrainian refugees highlights several important issues in UK 🇬🇧 immigration policy:
- Temporary Solutions: By offering only short-term extensions, the UK 🇬🇧 leaves refugees in a constant state of uncertainty. This can make it harder for them to integrate and contribute to society.
- No Path to Settlement: Without a route to permanent residency, refugees cannot fully plan for their futures in the UK 🇬🇧. This affects their ability to find stable work, buy homes, and invest in their communities.
- Changing Immigration Rules: The recent tightening of immigration policies may make it even harder for Ukrainians and others to remain in the UK 🇬🇧 long-term.
According to analysis from VisaVerge.com, experts stress the need for a more comprehensive and long-term solution. They argue that clear pathways to permanent residency would help refugees settle, integrate, and contribute more fully to UK 🇬🇧 society.
Background: How Did We Get Here?
When the war in Ukraine 🇺🇦 began, millions of people fled their homes in search of safety. The UK 🇬🇧 responded by creating several visa schemes to help those affected. The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme allowed British citizens to open their homes to refugees, while the Ukraine Family Scheme and Ukraine Extension Scheme provided other routes for entry and protection.
These programs were designed to offer immediate relief and support. However, as the war continues and refugees remain in the UK 🇬🇧 for longer periods, the lack of permanent solutions has become a growing concern.
What Happens Next? The Future for Ukrainian Refugees
The future remains uncertain for Ukrainian refugees in the UK 🇬🇧. With no clear indication of further visa extensions or new settlement options, many face difficult choices. Some may be forced to return to Ukraine 🇺🇦, even if it is not safe or practical to do so. Others may try to find alternative routes to stay, but these are often limited and difficult to access.
The UK 🇬🇧 government’s recent changes to immigration rules may make it even harder for refugees to remain in the country. Without a shift in policy, the situation is likely to remain challenging for those affected.
Practical Guidance for Refugees and Sponsors
If you are a Ukrainian refugee in the UK 🇬🇧 or a sponsor under the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, here are some practical steps you can take:
- Check Your Visa Status: Make sure you know when your current visa expires and what options are available for extension.
- Apply Early: If you are eligible for the Ukrainian Protection Extension Visa, apply as soon as possible to avoid gaps in your status.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest government announcements and policy changes. The official UK government website is the best source for accurate information.
- Seek Support: Many charities and community groups offer help with applications, housing, and integration. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.
- Plan for the Future: While the situation is uncertain, it’s important to consider your long-term options and make plans for different scenarios.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- May 16, 2024: Ukraine Extension Scheme closed (except for children born in the UK 🇬🇧).
- February 2025: Ukrainian Protection Extension Visa introduced.
- June 2, 2025: Expired BRPs can no longer be used for travel; eVisa required.
Where to Find More Information
- Official UK Government Guidance: Support for Ukrainian nationals
- Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme: How to apply
- Migration Observatory: Ukrainian migration to the UK
Conclusion: The Need for Long-Term Solutions
The UK 🇬🇧 has provided important support to Ukrainian refugees through its visa schemes, especially the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme. However, the lack of a permanent resettlement option leaves many in a difficult position. As the war continues and refugees remain in the UK 🇬🇧 for longer periods, the need for clear, long-term solutions becomes more urgent.
Refugees, sponsors, and community groups are calling for policies that offer stability and hope for the future. Until then, many will remain in limbo, unsure of what comes next. For now, staying informed, applying for available extensions, and seeking support are the best steps refugees and their sponsors can take.
For the latest updates and detailed guidance, always refer to the official UK government website.
Learn Today
Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme → UK initiative allowing British citizens to sponsor Ukrainian refugees by providing accommodation and support.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) → A UK immigration document with biometric data proving legal residence; being replaced by eVisas.
Ukraine Family Scheme → A visa route allowing Ukrainians with UK family members to join them; now closed.
Ukrainian Protection Extension Visa → An 18-month UK visa extension for Ukrainians with expiring three-year visas; no settlement path.
eVisa → Digital UK visa replacing physical biometric permits, mandatory for travel after June 2, 2025.
This Article in a Nutshell
Thousands of Ukrainian refugees in the UK face uncertainty as visa schemes provide only temporary relief. The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme supports many, but closure of other programs leaves refugees without permanent residency options, causing emotional and practical challenges amid changing immigration rules and policy tightening.
— By VisaVerge.com
