Important: the Ukraine Family Scheme closed to new applications at 3pm on 19 February 2024 and is no longer available. The information below is kept for reference. Ukrainians who want to come to the UK should now use the Homes for Ukraine sponsorship scheme, and those already in the UK on a Ukraine visa can apply to the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPES), which opened on 4 February 2025 and grants a further 18 months’ permission. The Ukraine Family Scheme was a special visa programme that allowed Ukrainian citizens to join their immediate and extended relatives in the UK for up to 3 years.
Eligibility requirements
The eligibility requirements may vary depending on the specific aspects of a particular case. The applicant meets the following criteria:
- be a Ukrainian national;
- have a relative who is a British citizen or settled in the UK;
- live in Ukraine before the beginning of 2022.
The relative in the UK must be one of the next:
- a citizen of Britain;
- a person with settled status;
- a refugee or humanitarian status holder.
Immediate & Extended relatives
Under the Ukrainian Family Scheme, immediate relatives include spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners and children under the age of 18. Extended relatives include:
- one of parents (straight or in-law);
- child 18+;
- grandmother or grandfather (native or in-law);
- grandchild (native or in-law);
- brother or sister (sibling or in-law);
- aunt or uncle;
- niece or nephew;
- cousin.
For extended relatives the applicant must demonstrate that there are exceptional circumstances that warrant the issuance of the visa. The decision on whether to grant a visa to an extended relative is at the discretion of the UK government and is based on the specific circumstances of the case.
How to apply to the Scheme?
The applicant must gather all the necessary supporting documents, such as their passport, evidence of their relationship with the family member in the UK. Applications under the Ukraine Family Scheme are no longer accepted, as the scheme closed on 19 February 2024. To apply under a current route, use the Homes for Ukraine scheme, or the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPES) if you are already in the UK on a Ukraine visa.
There was no application fee or healthcare surcharge under the Ukraine Family Scheme, and the current Homes for Ukraine and UPES routes are also free of charge.
The visa application process can be complex, and seeking legal advice from specialists can be helpful to ensure that the application is properly prepared and presented to the UK government.
How long can you stay in the UK?
Under this type of UK visa for Ukrainian citizens a person can stay in the UK for a period of up to 3 years. You need to give your biometrics within half a year of arriving in the country.
It’s important to note that the UK immigration policies are subject to change, and it is recommended to stay up to day with the latest regulations by seeking legal advice from an immigration lawyer.
How can we help?
“Sterling Law” specializes in immigration law. We can assist with all aspects of the visa application, including eligibility assessment, document preparation and submission of the application. Our team of immigration lawyers can provide guidance and support throughout the entire process, ensuring a successful outcome.
Guaranteed benefits of seeking legal assistance from Sterling Law:
- access to experienced immigration lawyers who are knowledgeable about UK immigration rules and regulations;
- personalized service tailored to your unique circumstances and needs;
- legal representation in the event of any challenges or appeals related to Ukraine Family Scheme visa application;
- peace of mind knowing that your application is in the hands of experienced and dedicated immigration lawyers.
Remember that immigration rules and policies are subject to change, so it’s important to stay up-to-date and seek professional legal advice. Our team can advise on your eligibility under the Homes for Ukraine scheme or the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPES) and help you take the right next step.
