UK Government Grants Two-Year Visa Extensions for Ukrainians: Application Process

UK Extends Legal Stay for Ukrainians

According to ХВИЛЯ: The British government has announced a two-year extension to the legal stay for Ukrainians who have fled the Russian invasion. This significant policy change, declared by the UK's Immigration and Passport Department on February 24, allows applicants to request an extension up to 90 days before their current permission expires, a threefold increase from the previous 28-day window. This move provides greater certainty for displaced individuals and families.

The new Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE), which launched on February 4, 2025, is available to the over 300,000 Ukrainians residing in the UK as of late 2025. It replaces a previous scheme that offered an 18-month extension. Participation in the visa extension programs is free, but applicants must be physically present within the UK to complete the process.

Eligible Schemes and Guaranteed Rights

Individuals who arrived under the following UK schemes are eligible for the extension:

• Homes for Ukraine
• Ukraine Family Scheme
• Ukraine Extension Scheme

The extension guarantees continued rights to work, access to healthcare, education, and social benefits. This decision aims to improve stability and living conditions for Ukrainians in Britain during a time of ongoing war and uncertainty.

Extending the legal status of Ukrainians is a crucial step in supporting those forced to leave their homeland. It prevents individuals from falling into an illegal immigration status and secures their access to essential public services. In light of the protracted conflict, this initiative underscores the UK's commitment to supporting conflict-affected people and providing them with stability and safety. Such policy shifts may also influence the immigration approaches of other nations hosting Ukrainian refugees.