Changes have been made to the immigration rules around Homes for Ukraine. The Home Office have introduced a new Ukrainian Permission Extension visa (UPE).
The UPE allows Ukrainian nationals the right to stay in the UK for an extra 18 months. It is not an automatic extension. You’ll need to apply for it when your current permissions have 28 days or less remaining.
It is very important to make sure you apply before your permission runs out. This makes sure your rights and entitlements will continue.
If you apply after your permission has expired, even if your UPE application is approved later, you'll lose access to public funds. You will also lose your right to work, study, rent, and benefits, until a decision is made. You may also need to repay any benefits received during this time.
Find out more and apply for the UPE Extension visa
Biometric data
Before you apply to the scheme, please make sure you:
- have created a UKVI account and have access to your eVisa
- have your expired biometric residence permit (BRP), if you have one, as it may
- be required as part of your application process
- apply within 28 days of your current permission expiring.
If you do not have your BRP, or you did not provide biometric information under your current permission, you may need to book an appointment to have your facial image and fingerprints (biometric information) taken at a visa application centre (VAC) in the UK as part of your application.
Children under the age of 5 will not have their fingerprints taken but will still need to book and attend an appointment at a VAC to have their digital photograph taken.
At your appointment, you’ll need to prove your identity with a valid international passport, unless you have a reasonable explanation for why you do not have one.
Links to additional guidance around the changes from the government:
Homes for Ukraine: sponsor guides
Homes for Ukraine: Guidance for guests
Homes for Ukraine: Ending your hosting arrangements, and helping your guest with their next steps