UK Launches Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme for 18-Month Stay

Key Takeaways

• UK launched Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme on February 4, 2025, offering 18-month stay extensions.
• Ukraine Family and Extension Schemes closed to new applications; Homes for Ukraine sponsors must be UK citizens or settled.
• Time under Ukraine visa schemes doesn’t count toward UK permanent settlement eligibility.

The United Kingdom 🇬🇧 has made important changes to its Ukraine visa schemes in 2025, affecting thousands of Ukrainians who sought safety and support due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine 🇺🇦. These updates include the launch of the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme, the closure of earlier visa routes, and new rules about who can stay, who can apply, and what happens next. Here’s a clear, step-by-step overview of what has changed, who is affected, what actions are needed, and what these changes mean for Ukrainians in the UK.

Summary of What Changed

• The UK government introduced the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme on February 4, 2025. This new scheme lets Ukrainians already in the UK under earlier Ukraine visa schemes, and their eligible family members, apply for an extra 18 months’ permission to stay.
• At the same time, the government closed the Ukraine Extension Scheme and the Ukraine Family Scheme to new applications. The Family Scheme closed on February 19, 2024, and the Extension Scheme closed on February 4, 2025.
• The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme remains open, but now only sponsors who are British or Irish citizens or settled persons in the UK can apply. This means fewer people can act as sponsors.
• No time spent under any Ukraine visa scheme counts towards the 10-year route to settlement in the UK. The new extension scheme also does not provide a direct path to permanent settlement.
• The application for the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme is free and must be submitted separately by each eligible person.

Who Is Affected by These Changes

• Ukrainians already in the UK under any of the previous Ukraine visa schemes (Family Scheme, Extension Scheme, or Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme) are directly affected. They can now apply for an 18-month extension.
• Family members of Ukrainians in the UK who are already here under these schemes can also apply for the extension, as long as they meet the eligibility rules.
• New arrivals from Ukraine face much more limited options. The Family Scheme is closed, and the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme now has stricter rules about who can be a sponsor.
• People hoping to reunite with family in the UK may find it harder, as the main family reunification route is now closed.
• Those seeking permanent settlement in the UK will not be able to use time spent under these Ukraine visa schemes to count towards the 10-year settlement route.

Effective Dates

• The Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme opened for applications on February 4, 2025.
• The Ukraine Family Scheme closed to new applications on February 19, 2024.
• The Ukraine Extension Scheme closed to new applications on February 4, 2025.
• The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme remains open, but with new restrictions on who can be a sponsor.

Required Actions for Ukrainians in the UK

If you are a Ukrainian national or a family member already in the UK under one of the Ukraine visa schemes, here’s what you need to do:

1. Check Your Eligibility
   • You must have valid permission under one of the previous Ukraine visa schemes (Family Scheme, Extension Scheme, or Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme).
   • If you previously held permission under these schemes and now have another eligible status, you may also qualify.
2. Gather Your Documents
   • You’ll need proof of your current or previous permission under a Ukraine visa scheme.
   • Prepare your identity documents (such as passport or biometric residence permit).
   • Collect any other supporting documents that show your eligibility.
3. Submit Your Application
   • Applications for the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme opened on February 4, 2025.
   • Each person must submit a separate application.
   • The application is free of charge.
   • You can find the official application form and guidance on the UK government’s official website.
4. Wait for a Decision
   • Processing times may vary, so it’s best to apply well before your current permission expires.
   • You will be notified once a decision is made.
5. Receive Your 18-Month Extension
   • If approved, you’ll get an extra 18 months’ permission to stay in the UK.
   • During this time, you can work, study, access public funds, healthcare, and education just as before.
6. Plan for the Future
   • The extension does not lead to permanent settlement.
   • If you want to stay in the UK after the extension ends (September 2026), you’ll need to look at other immigration routes.

Implications for Pending and Future Applications

• Pending Applications: If you applied to the Ukraine Extension Scheme or Family Scheme before they closed, your application will still be processed. However, no new applications are accepted for these schemes.
• Future Applications: Only the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme and the restricted Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme are open. New arrivals from Ukraine will find it harder to come to the UK unless they have a sponsor who meets the new rules.

Background: How We Got Here

When the conflict in Ukraine 🇺🇦 began in 2022, the UK government created several visa schemes to help Ukrainians:

• The Ukraine Family Scheme allowed Ukrainians to join family members in the UK.
• The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme let people in the UK sponsor Ukrainians to come and live with them.
• The Ukraine Extension Scheme allowed Ukrainians already in the UK to extend their stay.

By July 2024, about 210,000 Ukrainians had arrived in the UK under these schemes. Over time, the government decided to streamline these routes, leading to the launch of the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme in 2025. This new scheme combines the earlier options into a single extension route, but also closes off some pathways, especially for new arrivals and family reunification.

Why Did the UK Government Make These Changes?

The UK government says the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme is meant to give stability and continuity to Ukrainians already in the UK, while also keeping control over immigration. The Home Office has said that the extension scheme helps people who are already here, but also makes sure the system is managed carefully.

However, some advocacy groups and opposition politicians have criticized the changes. They say closing the family reunification route is unfair, especially since the conflict in Ukraine is still ongoing. They also point out that not offering a path to settlement leaves Ukrainians in the UK with an uncertain future.

What Rights Do Ukrainians Have Under the Extension Scheme?

If you are granted an extension under the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme, you have the right to:

• Work in the UK
• Study at schools, colleges, or universities
• Access public funds (such as Universal Credit or other benefits)
• Use the National Health Service (NHS) for healthcare
• Send your children to school

These rights are the same as under the earlier Ukraine visa schemes. The extension lasts for 18 months, taking most people through to September 2026.

What Happens After the 18-Month Extension?

This is one of the biggest concerns for Ukrainians in the UK. The extension does not lead to permanent settlement, and the time spent under any of the Ukraine visa schemes does not count towards the 10-year settlement route. This means that, unless the UK government changes its policy, Ukrainians will need to find another immigration route if they want to stay in the UK after September 2026.

Some possible options might include:

• Applying for a work visa, if you have a job offer that meets the requirements
• Applying for a student visa, if you are accepted to a course of study
• Looking into other family or private life routes, if you qualify

However, these routes have their own rules, fees, and requirements, and not everyone will be eligible.

What About New Arrivals and Family Reunification?

The closure of the Ukraine Family Scheme means that new arrivals from Ukraine who want to join family in the UK have very limited options. The only main route left is the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, but now only British or Irish citizens or settled persons can act as sponsors. This makes it harder for Ukrainians to find a sponsor and come to the UK.

Advocacy groups have said this could leave some people at risk, especially those who have family in the UK but can no longer use the family scheme to join them.

What Should Ukrainians in the UK Do Now?

If you are already in the UK under a Ukraine visa scheme, here are your next steps:

• Apply for the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme as soon as possible, before your current permission ends.
• Gather all your documents and make sure you meet the eligibility rules.
• Plan ahead for what you will do after the 18-month extension, especially if you want to stay in the UK longer.
• Seek legal advice if you are unsure about your options. Many charities and legal organizations offer free or low-cost help for Ukrainians.

Where to Find More Information and Help

• The UK government’s official guidance on the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme is available on the gov.uk website.
• Immigration legal advice services, including immigration barristers and non-profit organizations, can help you understand your rights and options.
• Advocacy groups like the Work Rights Centre provide support and up-to-date information for Ukrainians dealing with visa changes.

Key Points to Remember

• Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme is now the main route for Ukrainians in the UK to extend their stay.
• Application is free and must be made separately by each eligible person.
• Extension lasts 18 months and gives the same rights as before.
• No direct path to settlement—time under these schemes does not count towards permanent residency.
• Family reunification routes are closed for new applications, making it harder for new arrivals.
• Plan early for what you will do after the extension ends.

Policy and Community Reactions

The UK government says these changes are needed to manage immigration and provide stability for those already in the country. However, many Ukrainians and support groups feel the closure of family routes and the lack of a settlement pathway are unfair, especially as the conflict in Ukraine continues.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes have left many Ukrainians in the UK feeling uncertain about their long-term future. Some are worried about what will happen when the extension ends, while others are frustrated that they cannot bring family members to join them.

Practical Guidance for Ukrainians and Their Families

• Apply early: Don’t wait until your current permission is about to expire. Apply for the extension as soon as you are eligible.
• Keep your documents safe: Make sure you have copies of all your important papers, including your current visa, passport, and any proof of your stay in the UK.
• Stay informed: Check the official gov.uk guidance regularly for updates.
• Seek help if needed: If you have questions or problems with your application, reach out to legal advice services or advocacy groups.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The changes to the Ukraine visa schemes in 2025 mark a major shift in how the UK supports Ukrainians affected by the conflict. While the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme gives those already in the UK a way to stay longer, it also closes off some important routes for new arrivals and family reunification. The lack of a path to settlement means planning ahead is more important than ever.

If you are a Ukrainian in the UK, apply for the extension as soon as possible, keep up to date with official information, and start thinking about your options for the future. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted organizations or legal advisors.

For the most current and official information, always refer to the UK government’s official guidance on Ukraine visa schemes and the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme.

Learn Today

Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme → A UK immigration scheme allowing eligible Ukrainians an 18-month extension to stay starting February 2025.
Ukraine Family Scheme → A visa route that allowed Ukrainian nationals to join UK family members, closed to new applications in 2024.
Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme → A UK program enabling British or settled individuals to sponsor Ukrainians for residency within the UK.
Permanent Settlement → Legal status allowing indefinite residence in the UK, not granted through Ukraine visa schemes’ time counted.
10-year Route to Settlement → UK immigration pathway requiring 10 years of lawful residence for permanent residency eligibility, excluding Ukraine scheme time.

This Article in a Nutshell

The UK introduced the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme in 2025 to support Ukrainians already in the UK with an 18-month stay extension, closing earlier visa routes and tightening sponsorship rules, while maintaining previous rights without offering settlement paths.
— By VisaVerge.com