Special visa schemes for Ukrainians

The UK’s response to the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022 included special visa schemes for Ukrainians. Around 218,000 people have come to the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme or the (now closed) Ukraine Family Scheme, the majority in 2022.

Those here under the Ukraine schemes have the right to work, claim benefits and use the NHS. Visas mostly last three years, and from February 2025 can be extended for another 18 months, but there is currently no pathway to permanent residence.

The main Homes for Ukraine scheme involves Ukrainians living with host families

In the days following the Russian assault, amid widespread public and political pressure, the Johnson government announced a major relaxation of immigration rules for Ukrainians and their families. This included a Ukraine Family Scheme allowing British citizens and permanent residents to sponsor a wide range of relatives for visas.

The biggest scheme, Homes for Ukraine, allows Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family to live in the UK temporarily if a sponsor offers suitable accommodation. The scheme is uncapped and remains open for applications.

The Sunak government significantly tightened the schemes in 2024

In February 2024, the government closed the Family Scheme to new applicants. It also tightened the eligibility to become a Homes for Ukraine sponsor, from anyone with permission to live in the UK for six months to only British citizens and permanent residents. This means that in most cases it is no longer possible for Ukrainians in the UK without permanent residence to sponsor relatives to join them.

New Homes for Ukraine visas are also being issued for 18 months rather than three years. The Home Office said this would make the UK’s offer more like the EU Temporary Protection Directive.

Visa extensions will be allowed from February 2025, but not permanent residence

Visas initially lasted three years with no extensions permitted. But from 4 February 2025, holders will be able to apply to renew them for another 18 months.

Permanent residence (indefinite leave to remain) is not allowed. This makes the schemes different from standard visas or grants of refugee status, which do allow permanent residence after five years. Both Conservative and Labour governments have said Ukraine will be safe to return to and the visas are therefore temporary, in line with the wishes of the Ukrainian authorities. They also note that the EU is not offering permanent settlement.

Most Ukrainians in the UK do want to stay long-term, even if their home country were safe to return to.

Despite challenges, the Ukraine schemes are seen as a possible model for other conflicts

The visa schemes have been generally considered an effective response but there are concerns about housing as Homes for Ukraine placements end. The British Red Cross says “while the Ukraine response successfully delivered safety at scale, some new arrivals have experienced challenges with unsuitable accommodation, precarious housing and homelessness”.

Some charities and politicians have called for similar schemes for other nationalities, such as Palestinians.