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UNITED KINGDOM: Visa Concessions for Ukrainians in the UK
February 25, 2022
Further to the news of a visa concession for family members of British citizens in Ukraine, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) have announced visa concessions for Ukrainians who are already in the UK.
Building on the recent support provided to assist British Nationals to leave Ukraine with their family members, the Home Secretary has now confirmed that Ukrainians who are on work, study or visit visas in the UK will have their visas temporarily extended or be able to switch onto different visa routes from within the UK.
Changes announced for Ukrainian nationals in the UK include:
- Ukrainian nationals on an existing points-based system route can extend their leave in the UK
- Ukrainian nationals on an existing visitor visa can exceptionally switch into a points-based system immigration route without having to leave the UK
- Ukrainian nationals on an existing visitor visa can apply under the family route for further leave without meeting the immigration status requirement, provided they meet the requirements for leave based on exceptional circumstances
- Ukrainian nationals on an existing seasonal worker visa will have their leave in the UK extended to 31 December 2022
- Ukrainian nationals in temporary HGV/pork butcher jobs will have their leave in the UK extended to 31 December 2022 and will also be allowed to apply to the skilled worker route
These concessions are available for people with valid visas in the UK. Details of the concessions, which are available for those holding valid visas in the UK, can be found here.
The Home Office’s priority remains to support British nationals and their families who want to leave Ukraine. UKVI are working around the clock to process visa applications and have surged staff to Visa Application Centres (VAC).
Dependents of British Nationals resident in Ukraine who need a UK visa can apply through the new, temporary location in Lviv or through a VAC in nearby countries, including Poland, Moldova, Romania and Hungary. The VAC in Kyiv is now closed.
Her Majesty’s Passport Service is prioritising British nationals in Ukraine who need a passport and are working with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to ensure those who need emergency travel documents receive them quickly.
Individuals impacted by these developments are encouraged to contact their Newland Chase immigration specialist for case-specific advice.
For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to the UK, please contact us.
