United Kingdom Announces Closure of Family Visa Program for Ukrainian Applicants

In a significant policy adjustment, the United Kingdom has ceased the family visa program for new Ukrainian applicants. This decision is part of a comprehensive approach to guarantee the long-term viability and efficacy of the UK's support mechanisms for those displaced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Policy Statement from the Minister for Legal Migration and the Border

Tom Pursglove, Minister for Legal Migration and the Border communicated the government's stance, highlighting the necessity of this policy shift. The aim is to recalibrate the UK's refugee support frameworks to better meet the urgent needs of displaced Ukrainians.

Key Developments Include:

• Closure of Family Visa Scheme: To maintain the integrity and sustainability of the UK's refugee assistance programs.
• Introduction of Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE): Allows for an 18-month visa extension for Ukrainian nationals currently in the UK.
• Adjustments to the Homes for Ukraine Scheme: These include reducing the validity period of new visas from 36 to 18 months and stricter sponsor eligibility criteria.

Criticism and Support

The abrupt termination of the family visa scheme has drawn criticism, notably from the Scottish National Party, calling the move inhumane. However, the UK government underscores the ongoing availability of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, which facilitates UK residents in hosting Ukrainian refugees without familial ties.

Impact and Outreach

Since the conflict's inception, the UK has provided refuge to approximately 230,000 Ukrainians, reflecting a strong commitment to humanitarian support. The government's latest policy adjustments are designed to enhance the support system's responsiveness and resilience, ensuring that displaced Ukrainians receive the necessary assistance and integration support during their stay in the UK.

Looking Forward

The United Kingdom remains dedicated to upholding its humanitarian obligations, continuously evaluating and adapting its immigration policies to meet the evolving needs of Ukrainian refugees. Through these measured adjustments, the UK aims to foster a supportive environment that facilitates the well-being, integration, and self-reliance of displaced individuals seeking refuge from the conflict in Ukraine.

FAQS

Can Ukrainians still join family in the UK?

As of today, February 23rd, 2024, Ukrainians cannot directly join family in the UK through the Ukraine Family Scheme, as it closed on February 19th, 2024. However, there are still two options depending on your situation:

1. Ukraine Extension Scheme:
   • You might be eligible for the Ukraine Extension Scheme if you're a Ukrainian national or have a Ukrainian family member. This scheme allows you to apply to stay in the UK if you were already there with permission between March 18th, 2022 and November 16th, 2023 or if you previously held permission that expired on or after January 1st, 2022. The deadline to apply is May 16th, 2024.
2. Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme:
   • If you have a settled family member in the UK who can offer you accommodation for at least 6 months, consider applying under the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme. This scheme allows Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members to come to the UK with the support of a sponsor.

What are the alternative visa options for Ukrainians?

As of today, February 23rd, 2024, the specific options for Ukrainians seeking visas depend on their circumstances and the country they wish to enter. Here's a breakdown of some alternatives:

1. Temporary Protection:
   • United States: Ukrainians who were present in the US before April 11, 2022, and have remained continuously present since April 19, 2022, might be eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). TPS grants temporary immigration status and work authorisation.
   • Other countries: Some countries may offer similar temporary protection programs for Ukrainians based on specific criteria. Research the individual country's immigration office for details.
2. Humanitarian Programs:
   • United States: The "Uniting for Ukraine" program allows Ukrainians with a U.S. sponsor to enter the US for 2 years on humanitarian parole without a traditional visa.
   • Canada: The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) allows Ukrainians to enter Canada temporarily.
   • European Union: The Temporary Protection Directive allows EU member states to grant Ukrainians temporary residence permits and access to work and benefits.
3. Sponsorship Programs:
   • United Kingdom: The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme allows Ukrainians with a UK sponsor offering accommodation for 6+ months to apply for a visa.
   • Other countries: Some countries may offer similar sponsorship programs for Ukrainian refugees. Check the relevant websites for details.
4. Traditional Visa Options:
   • Work visas: Ukrainians with relevant skills and job offers may qualify for work visas in various countries.
   • Student visas: Ukrainians seeking to study abroad can apply for student visas based on accepted university admissions.
   • Family reunification visas: Ukrainians with close family members residing in certain countries may qualify for family reunification visas.

What is the impact of the closure on Ukrainian families?

The closure of the Ukraine Family Scheme on February 19th, 2024, has had a significant impact on Ukrainian families seeking refuge and reunification in the UK. Here's a breakdown of some key points:

Negative Impacts:

• Separation of families: Families with members already in the UK may struggle to reunite due to the lack of a dedicated visa route specifically for them. This can cause emotional distress and hardship.
• Increased difficulty in finding sponsors: The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, now the main option for families, requires finding individual sponsors willing to offer accommodation for at least 6 months. This can be challenging, especially for families with specific needs or large numbers of members.
• Uncertainty and stress: The closure and shift in policy create uncertainty for families about their future and options for joining loved ones in the UK. This can be stressful and negatively impact their well-being.
• Potential for exploitation: Vulnerable families relying on finding sponsors might be more susceptible to exploitation by individuals with ill intentions.

Why did the UK close the family visa scheme?

The UK government's rationale for closing the Ukraine Family Scheme on February 19th, 2024, is multifaceted. Various perspectives and arguments surround the decision:

Reasons cited by the UK government:

• Sustainability: The government claims the scheme became unsustainable due to the large number of applications and the ongoing cost of supporting refugees. They aim to prioritise resources for those already in the UK.
• Focus on alternative schemes: The government encourages families to use the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, which they believe provides better accommodation and integration opportunities.
• Transition towards long-term solutions: The government emphasises the temporary nature of the schemes and their intention to support Ukraine's eventual reconstruction, encouraging refugees to return home.

How do I apply to be a sponsor of Homes for Ukraine?

As a potential sponsor for the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme, here's how to get involved and start the application process:

1. Register your interest:
   • Visit the website
   • Click on "Register your interest" and complete the online form.
   • This registers your details with the local council, and they might contact you if someone in your area needs a sponsor.
2. Find a Ukrainian individual or family:
   • You can also be proactive and find a Ukrainian individual or family directly through:
   • Matching organisations: Several organisations facilitate matching sponsors and refugees, such as Citizens UK, Refugees at Home, Homes for Ukraine by Reset, World Jewish Relief, and Love Bristol. Visit their websites or contact them for information on their matching processes.
   • Online platforms: Some platforms connect sponsors and refugees, such as Homes for Ukraine Matching Matching Refugees with Ukrainians.
   • Social media: Use platforms like Facebook groups dedicated explicitly to connecting Ukrainian refugees with UK sponsors.
3. Submit a joint application:
   • You can submit a joint application once connected with a suitable Ukrainian individual or family.
   • Both you (as the sponsor) and the Ukrainian individual(s) (as the applicant(s)) will need to provide various documents and information in the application.
4. Prepare for their arrival:
   • When your application is accepted, you can prepare for their visit. 

This includes ensuring you have suitable accommodation for at least 6 months, providing necessities, and helping them access essential services like healthcare and benefits.