Ukraine Extension Scheme

Eligibility Criteria

Previous Permission in the UK

An individual can apply for the Ukraine Extension Scheme if they have permission to be in the UK during the period between 18 March 2022 and 16 November  2023. It’s important to note that the permission does not need to cover this entire period.

Expired Permission

Those who previously held permission to be in the UK and had their permission expire on or after 1 January  2022 are also eligible to apply.

Current Stay in the UK

Applicants must be in the UK with valid permission to stay. This ensures that the individual has a legitimate reason to be in the country and is not in violation of any immigration rules.

Children Born in the UK

Children born in the UK after 18 March 2022, are also eligible. This ensures that families can stay together and that children born during this period are not left in a precarious situation.

Information on Who Can and Cannot Apply

Who Can Apply

• Eligibility extends to Ukrainians and their close family members who satisfy the specified criteria.
• Additionally, individuals who aren’t dependent on a UK-based sponsor can also apply.

Who Cannot Apply

• Individuals who have not met the specified permission dates are unable to apply.
• Applicants who have pursued another scheme after submitting their application to the Ukraine Extension Scheme should be aware that it can cause delays in the decision-making process.

Documentation Needed

Evidence of Relationship for Non-Ukrainian Family Members

• If you are a non-Ukrainian family member of a Ukrainian national, it’s essential to provide evidence of your relationship to the primary applicant. This is crucial to ensure families can stay together and benefit from the scheme.
• For those non-Ukrainian family members already in the UK as dependents, their biometric residence permit or visa in their passport serves as a testament to their status and connection to the primary Ukrainian applicant.

Documents for Establishing Identity

Establishing Individual identity is a fundamental part of the application process. The UK government requires specific documents to verify the identity of each applicant.

• For Ukrainian nationals applying under the Ukraine Extension Scheme, a current and valid Ukrainian passport is the primary document required to establish identity.
• A biometric Residence Permit or Card contains crucial biometric data about the holder and is a vital document for those granted permission to stay in the UK for a specific period.
• For those granted refugee status in the UK, the Refugee Travel Document allows them to travel outside the UK and return without needing a visa.
• A driving licence with a photograph issued by the UK or Crown Dependencies can also be used as a supplementary document to establish identity.

Application Process

• Every applicant must complete the online application form. This form captures essential details about the applicant and is a primary step in the application process.
• After submitting the online form, applicants must register their biometrics at designated centres. This step ensures that the UK government has the necessary biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial scans, of each applicant.

Exceptions Eligibility

Switching Visas

Individuals should consider whether to keep their current visa or switch to the Ukraine Extension Scheme Visa. Time spent in the UK under this scheme might not count towards a future application for indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process

• Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes having had permission to be in the UK between 18 March 2022 and 16 November 2023 or having had permission that expired on or after 1 January 2022.
• Prepare all the required documentation. This typically includes proof of identity like a passport, proof of previous permission to be in the UK, and any other supporting documents that validate your eligibility.
• Fill out the Ukraine Extension Scheme application form. Ensure all details are accurate to avoid any delays or rejections.
• There are no fees associated with the Ukraine Extension Scheme application process.
• Depending on the official guidelines, this could be done online or at a designated application centre.
• Some visa applications require an interview or biometrics fingerprints and photos to be taken. In this case, ensure you attend the scheduled appointment.
• Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. During this time, you might be asked to provide additional information or documentation.
• You’ll be notified of the decision on your application. If approved, you’ll receive details on the next steps, such as collecting your visa or biometric residence permit.

Where and How to Submit the Application

• Most UK visa applications are now online through the Official UK Government Website.
• After completing the online application, you may need to visit a designated application centre to submit biometrics or additional documents.

Specific Requirements or Documentation Needed for the Application

• A valid passport or another national identification document.
• Documents showing you had permission to be in the UK during the specified dates, such as previous visas or residence permits.
• Depending on the circumstances, you might need to provide additional documents like financial statements, proof of accommodation, or evidence of the relationship for immediate family members.

Additional Steps or Considerations in the Application Process

• If you’ve applied to another scheme, avoid applying for the Ukraine Extension Scheme simultaneously, as it may delay the decision.
• Consult an immigration lawyer or advisor to ensure your application is accurate and complete. At Total Law, our team of experts is ready to assist and guide you through every step of the process.

Fees Associated with the Application

There is no fee associated with applying for this scheme. This exemption includes both the immigration health surcharge and the biometric enrolment fee. Such a waiver alleviates the financial burden on applicants, making the process more accessible. For those navigating this scheme, Total Law offers expert guidance to ensure a seamless application experience.

UKVI’s Approach to Ukrainian Applications

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department has a dedicated approach when handling applications under the Ukraine schemes. They aim to expedite the decision-making process, often seeking to conclude within a week. However, the large number of applications can sometimes stretch this timeline.

Breakdown of Processing Durations

• For those seeking temporary protection, the average processing duration is approximately one week. This is based on the complete application and requires no additional information.
• After receiving all essential documents, the processing time is up to 10 working days. However, in cases requiring additional verification, it might stretch to 30 working days.
• The issuance of express visa application is at the discretion of consular officers, and the processing time can fluctuate based on various factors.

Determinants of Processing Duration

• An increased number of applications can lead to longer processing times, given the high workload.
• Applications thoroughly detailed and accompanied by all necessary documents usually experience a faster processing time. The process can be slowed if an application contains errors or missing information.
• Sometimes, the UKVI might rely on external organisations for specific information, especially health assessments, character evaluations, and national security verifications. The responsiveness of these entities can influence the overall processing duration.
• The time applicants take to address requests for additional information or documentation can also affect the processing timeline.

Tracking Application Progress

• Those who’ve opted for online applications can monitor their progress via the UK government’s official portal.
• Periodic email notifications, especially when additional documents or clarifications are needed, keep the applicants informed about their application’s status.
• For personalised queries or clarifications, applicants can contact dedicated helplines or contact centres to assist with application-related inquiries.

Visa Extensions

General Visa Extension

Many visa categories, like the Tier 2 (General) work visa or the Student visa, allow for extensions provided the applicant continues to meet the visa’s requirements.

Partner or Family Extension

Those in the UK on a family or partner visa can often apply for an extension, ensuring they continue to meet the relationship requirements and can support themselves without public funds.

Switching Visa Categories

From Student to Work

Graduates on a Student visa with an eligible job offer can switch to a Skilled Worker visa.

From Work to Permanent Residency

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) can lead to permanent residency for individuals on certain work visas after five years in the UK.

Long Residence Rule

Individuals who have legally lived in the UK for ten continuous years can apply for ILR under the long residence rule, regardless of the visa category they were on.

Other Special Schemes

The UK occasionally introduces special schemes, like the “Homes for Ukraine” or the “Ukraine Family Scheme”, to address specific situations or humanitarian crises.

Grounds for Refusal

• Evidence of sufficient funds is often required to demonstrate the ability to support oneself in the UK.
• Continuous residency plays a crucial role. Breaks in residency might jeopardise eligibility, especially for ILR applications.
• Any criminal conviction can result in rejecting your application if you don’t have a clean record.
• Involvement in sham marriages or civil partnerships can be grounds for refusal.
• Making false representations or using deception during the application process is a significant concern.
• Issues related to admissibility to the Common Travel Area or other countries can also cause problems.
• Being excluded from asylum or humanitarian protection can affect the application’s outcome.
• Having exclusion or deportation orders might result in application denial.

Additional Resources

• Consulting with immigration lawyers or advisers, such as Total Law, can offer invaluable guidance tailored to an individual’s unique situation.
• The official UK government website remains the best source for up-to-date information on visa categories, requirements, and application procedures.
• Numerous community or charity organisations, such as the Refugee Council, Migrant Help, and the British Red Cross, extend support, primarily offering assistance to those facing removal or those in vulnerable situations.

Eligibility and Criteria

Eligibility for the Ukraine Extension Scheme is vital for those in the UK seeking an extended stay. The scheme, with a deadline of 16 May 2024, outlines specific criteria:

• Applicants must have valid UK permission to stay.
• Those with permission ending after 1 January 2022 can apply.
• Individuals with permission between 18 March 2022 and 16 November 2023 are eligible.
• Children born post-18 March 2022 in the UK can apply.

Application Process

The application process is straightforward. Interested individuals should initiate their application online. It’s crucial to ensure that all the scheme’s requirements are met to avoid potential delays or rejections. The digital platform provides a user-friendly interface, guiding applicants through each step.

Documentation

Proof of the applicant’s Ukrainian nationality is required. This can be in the form of a valid Ukrainian passport or any other national identification document. Additionally, evidence of the applicant’s previous or current visa status in the UK is required. This could be a copy of the visa, a biometric residence permit, or any other relevant documentation. It’s also advisable to have any other documentation that supports the eligibility criteria on hand, as this can strengthen the application.

Benefits and Considerations

Switching to the Ukraine Extension Scheme allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK, offering them a semblance of normalcy in these turbulent times. However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. The significant consideration is the future consequences. Time spent under the Ukraine Extension Scheme might not count towards applications for indefinite leave to remain in the UK. Therefore, individuals should assess their long-term goals and decide whether retaining their current visa status or switching is more beneficial.