Ukraine schemes extension guidance for Ukrainians and UK sponsors

The UK government has confirmed that Ukrainians already in the UK under the Ukraine schemes can extend their stay through the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE). The scheme provides 18 months’ permission to remain free of charge, with further extensions expected.

To help both Ukrainians and UK sponsors navigate recent updates, the following outlines the latest information and key changes.

What has changed in 2025

The UPE opened for applications on 4 February 2025 and remains open. It provides up to 18 months’ further permission to stay for those already granted leave under one of the Ukraine schemes:

• Homes for Ukraine (HFU)
• Ukraine Family Scheme (UFS)
• Ukraine Extension Scheme (UES)

Applications are free, and there is no Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

In a July 2025 parliamentary debate, the Minister confirmed the government will extend UPE “beyond 18 months,” with details to follow. This indicates further protection beyond the first UPE grant, but the mechanism and timing are pending.

Who is eligible

You can apply if:

• You are a Ukrainian national or the eligible family member of a Ukrainian national, and you currently have permission under a Ukraine scheme (HFU, UFS, or UES).
   
• You are in the UK when applying and have been living here since being granted (or arriving with) your Ukraine-scheme permission.
   
• Children born in the UK after 18 March 2022 to a Ukrainian parent with Ukraine-scheme permission can be eligible to apply.
   
• Non-Ukrainian partners or family members may also be eligible if they originally held permission as family under the Ukraine scheme.

Relationship to other Ukraine schemes and key dates

• The Ukraine Family Scheme closed at 3pm on 19 February 2024 (applications lodged before then continue to decision).
   
• The Ukraine Extension Scheme closed entirely on 4 February 2025.
   
• UPE is now the ongoing route to extend stay for those already here under a Ukraine scheme.

Settling in the UK later

It is important to note that the Ukraine schemes provide temporary sanctuary and do not lead to settlement. Time spent under these schemes does not count towards the continuous residence required for indefinite leave to remain in the UK. Those wishing to settle may need to switch to a different qualifying route if eligible.

Homes for Ukraine sponsor obligations that remain relevant

While UPE applies to Ukrainians, sponsor responsibilities under Homes for Ukraine remain relevant:

• Sponsors must offer accommodation for at least six months, with additional specific requirements for child applicants.
   
• Safeguarding and DBS checks continue to apply.
   
• Local authorities remain responsible for verifying accommodation.

Since 31 January 2025, a parent or legal guardian with permission under a Ukraine scheme (or Leave Outside the Rules (LOTR)) can sponsor their child under HFU, with a duration typically 18 months for applications made after 19 February 2024.

FAQs for Ukrainians and their UK sponsors

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to our immigration solicitors.

1. Is UPE really free and with access to public funds?

   Yes. There are no application fees and no IHS charges. Permission includes the right to work, study, and access public funds.

2. Can I apply well before my visa expires?

   Applications are usually accepted within 28 days of the expiry date. Earlier submissions may be considered in limited circumstances, so seek legal advice first.

3. Will there be another extension after UPE?

   The Minister has confirmed an extension “in principle,” but the details, including the mechanism and timing, are still pending. For now, plan based on the current 18-month grant.

How our immigration solicitors can help

Sanae Sahebjalal, expert immigration solicitor, says:

“Immigration rules are complicated and change frequently, and the Ukraine schemes are no exception. The best step Ukrainians and sponsors can take is to get advice early. It ensures applications are made at the right time and that no important details are missed.”

At SO Legal, we support Ukrainians and UK sponsors by:

• Assessing eligibility and timing to ensure you do not apply too early or too late.
• Reviewing identity and family relationship evidence.
• Handling child and complex family applications.
• Advising on discretionary issues such as early application, residence ties, or overstaying.
• Guiding on switching routes if your long-term aim is to settle in the UK.

For expert advice tailored to your situation, please contact our immigration team.