The UK supports Ukraine and the Ukraine Family Scheme has recently been opened for applications. This means that both immediate as well as extended family members of UK nationals can apply. It also means that immediate family members of extended family members are eligible. Successful applicants to the Ukraine Family Scheme will be able to stay in the UK for up to three years.
There are even ways and means of applying to stay in the UK without a Ukrainian international passport. Read on to learn everything you need to know!
How to Apply for a Stay in the UK with a Ukrainian Passport?
Ukrainian refugees with a valid international passport can apply online for a stay in the UK right here. In addition to filling in the application form, you will also need a photograph of your existing passport. You will also need official documentation proving your relationship to a United Kingdom family member (eg. birth or marriage certificate).
After your application has been processed, you will receive a confirmation email or letter from the UK home office giving the go-ahead. This letter can be used at any United Kingdom border point to enter the UK.
How to Apply for a Stay in the UK without a Ukrainian Passport?
Ukranian refugees who don’t have a valid international passport can still apply for a stay in the UK. Simply fill out the online application form here and then make an appointment at any European visa application center here.
Of course, you’re going to need to attend this appointment in order to partake in the accelerated security checks. You will also need to stay in the same location as where the application is submitted until contacted, which happens directly after the visa application is processed.
What is the Ukraine Family Scheme Visa and Who is Eligible?
The Ukraine Family Scheme is designed to allow applicants to physically join family members and applications are free. If the application is successful, you will be permitted to live, study or work in the UK.
In order to apply for the Ukraine Family Scheme, you need to be a Ukrainian national or an immediate family member of a Ukrainian. You also need to have been living in Ukraine either on, or directly before, the 1st of January 2022. This rings true even if you have now left Ukraine.
Applications are subjected to security checks and it is imperative that your UK family member is either a United Kingdom national, or someone settled in Britain. For instance, if your family member has indefinite leave to stay, proof of permanent residence or settled status.
This could also include people from Iceland, the EU, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, or Norway with a pre-settled status from before 1st January 2021. You could also apply if a family member has humanitarian protection or refugee status in the United Kingdom.
How to Apply for a Ukrainian Family Scheme Visa?
To apply for a Ukrainian Family Scheme Visa, you need to submit a copy of official documentation that proves your relationship to the British family member. This could take the form of a marriage or birth certificate. If you are able to explain why you can’t provide one of these documents, you can also apply.
