What next for Ukrainian workers in the UK?
On the 18th February 2025, UKVI announced a scheme to allow individuals who currently hold valid permission under one of the Ukraine schemes to extend their visas for a further 18 months.
This also includes children who are born in the UK after the 18th March 2022 to a Ukrainian national parent who holds valid leave under one of the Ukraine schemes.
Applicants are only permitted to make their application 28 days (or less) before their current visa expires. Applications which are made before this timeframe will be rejected.
Applicants will need to demonstrate the following to be eligible for this scheme:
- Residency in the UK: Those wishing to extend their visas must show they are still resident in the UK and have not spent more than 12 months outside the UK in Ukraine or a third country. Evidence of ongoing ties to the UK such as bills, or a tenancy agreement should also be provided.
- Previous Permission under one of the Ukraine Schemes: Applicants must demonstrate current valid status under the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, Ukraine Family Scheme or the Ukraine Extension Scheme
- Confirmation of Physical Presence in the UK: Applicants should ensure they are physically present in the UK when their applications are filed. They should also ensure they do not leave the UK during the 8-week processing time as leaving before a decision is provided is considered a withdrawal of the application.
- Proof of Identity: Applicants will be required to provide a passport as proof of identity. Those who hold BRPs will be able to file their applications via the ID Check app bypassing the requirement to attend a biometric appointment.
If the applicant’s previous permission was reliant on their relationship with a Ukrainian national, then they’ll also be required to provide evidence of their ongoing relationship and suitable accommodation if any children are applying.
It is important to note that the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme is not a route to settlement and those who wish to obtain settlement should switch to an alternative visa category such as the Skilled Worker visa.
What does this mean for Employers?
Employers should ensure that they conduct follow up right to work checks on employees who currently hold permission to work under the one of the Ukraine Schemes.
A follow up check should be conducted just prior to the expiry date of the employee’s current visa and once the visa expires an interim check should be conducted via the ‘Employer Checking Service’ to confirm the employee’s continuing right to work.
Once the visa has been approved, a last right to work check should be conducted on the new visa to ensure that the statutory excuse is established.
As the Ukraine schemes do not lead to settlement, it may also be beneficial for employers to investigate sponsorship options if they wish to keep their employees who are under the one of the Ukraine schemes on a permanent basis.
For more information on how to apply for a Sponsor License or sponsorship options please reach out to Migrate UK for a consultation on info@migrate-uk.com.