Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme

The Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE) opened on 4 February 2025, allowing eligible Ukrainian nationals and their family members to extend their permission to remain in the UK for an additional 18 months. The scheme preserves the key entitlements granted under the original Ukraine visa routes, including the right to work, access to public funds, NHS healthcare, and education.

In July 2025, the UK Government confirmed its intention to extend leave under the UPE beyond the initial 18 months. While detailed arrangements have not yet been published, applicants can plan on the basis that a further extension is expected.

This guide sets out the scheme’s eligibility requirements, the application process and timing rules (including the 28‑day application window and section 3C continuity of rights while a timely application is pending), the entitlements available under the UPE, and practical considerations for those wishing to remain lawfully in the UK.

Section A: Overview of the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme

The Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE) is a temporary humanitarian route created to allow eligible Ukrainians and their family members already in the UK to lawfully remain once their current Ukraine‑route permission approaches expiry. This section explains what the scheme is, who can use it, and the key features applicants can expect.

1. What is the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme?

The UPE opened on 4 February 2025. It provides an additional 18 months of permission to stay for eligible applicants, preserving the same core rights held under the original Ukraine visa routes. The extension is not automatic; applicants must apply for it before their existing permission expires. In July 2025, the Government confirmed its intention to extend leave under the UPE beyond the initial 18 months, with detailed arrangements to be published.

2. Who can use the scheme?

The scheme is available to Ukrainians and eligible family members who currently hold, or previously held, permission under one of the Ukraine routes (including the sponsorship, family, or extension schemes) or certain grants of leave outside the rules linked to Ukraine. Applicants are expected to have maintained residence in the UK broadly continuously since their initial grant, and must apply within the final 28 days of their current permission.

3. Key features and entitlements

• 18 months of additional permission to stay, with a Government plan for further extension beyond this period
• Continuation of the right to work, access to public funds, NHS healthcare, and education
• Applications are free of charge and must be submitted within the 28‑day window before current permission expires
• If you apply in time, your existing rights continue while the application is pending under section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971
• The UPE does not lead to settlement and time on this route does not count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain

Section Summary — The UPE is a time‑limited extension route that preserves existing rights for Ukrainians lawfully in the UK, provided they apply within the final 28 days of their current permission. It is not a settlement pathway, but the Government has signalled further extension beyond the initial 18 months.

Section B: Eligibility Criteria

This section explains who can apply under the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE), the timing rules you must meet, any restrictions that could affect eligibility, and the evidence you will typically need to provide. Read this section carefully before preparing your application to avoid refusal or interruption of your rights.

1. Applicant Requirements

You must currently hold valid permission in the UK under one of the Ukraine routes or a qualifying grant of leave linked to Ukraine. You should have maintained residence in the UK since your initial grant. Crucially, you must apply within the final 28 days before your current permission expires; applications submitted earlier than this may be refused, and applications after expiry risk loss of lawful status.

If you submit your application on time (within 28 days before expiry and before your leave ends), your existing rights continue while the application is pending under section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971. This includes the right to work, rent, and access benefits, until a decision is made.

2. Eligibility Restrictions

• You must comply with UK laws and your visa conditions; serious criminality or breaches may lead to refusal.
• Extended absences from the UK may affect eligibility if they breach the conditions of your leave.
• Unlike many immigration routes, access to public funds is permitted under the UPE and remains available if you apply and maintain status correctly.

These restrictions are assessed case by case. Where there are complexities (for example, periods abroad or pending criminal matters), seek advice before you apply.

3. Required Documentation

• Passport or Travel Document: Showing identity and nationality.
• Proof of Residence: Evidence of continuous residence in the UK since your initial Ukraine-route grant (for example, tenancy agreements, utility bills, bank statements).
• Proof of Current Permission: Evidence of your existing immigration status (for example, a biometric residence permit or Home Office correspondence).
• Additional Supporting Evidence (if relevant): For example, proof of family relationships or employment to clarify household composition or circumstances.

Provide documents that are clear, consistent, and up to date. Where multiple documents cover the same point, ensure they are cross-consistent (names, addresses, dates). Keep originals available in case verification is required.

Section Summary — To qualify under the UPE you must hold eligible Ukraine-route permission, have maintained residence in the UK, and apply within the strict 28-day window before expiry. If you apply on time, section 3C protects your existing rights while your application is processed. Prepare clear documentary evidence to demonstrate identity, residence, and current permission.

Section C: Application Process

Applying to the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE) correctly and within the permitted timeframe is essential to avoid refusal or loss of your rights. This section outlines when and how to apply, the key steps in preparing your application, and what to expect after submission.

1. When to Apply

Applications opened on 4 February 2025. You must submit your application within the final 28 days before your existing permission expires. For example, if your leave ends on 20 May 2025, the earliest you can apply is 22 April 2025. Applications submitted too early will normally be refused, and late applications risk loss of lawful status and entitlements.

When you apply within this window and before your current leave expires, section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971 automatically extends your existing rights — including to work, rent property, and access benefits — until the Home Office makes a decision on your application.

2. Preparing to Apply

• Check your permission expiry date and mark the start of your 28-day application window.
• Gather required evidence: passport or travel document, proof of residence, proof of current permission, and any additional supporting documents relevant to your case.
• Monitor the official UKVI website for any scheme updates before you apply.
• If your circumstances are complex — for example, if you have long absences or pending legal matters — consider taking immigration legal advice before submitting.

Applications are made online and are free of charge. The Home Office may request additional evidence after submission; respond promptly to avoid delays.

Section Summary — Apply within the 28 days before your current leave expires to benefit from section 3C protection. Prepare all required documents in advance, submit online, and be ready to supply any further information if asked by the Home Office.

Section D: Benefits & Impact

The Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE) offers critical benefits that provide stability, security, and continuity for Ukrainians lawfully residing in the UK. This section explains the main advantages of the scheme and its wider impact on applicants and their families.

1. Benefits of the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme

• 18 months of additional leave to remain in the UK, with a Government-confirmed plan for further extension beyond this period (details pending).
• Continuation of the right to work in the UK without restrictions.
• Access to public funds, including benefits and housing support.
• Full access to NHS healthcare.
• Access to education for children and adults.

These entitlements are identical to those provided under the original Ukraine visa schemes and are maintained throughout the period of extended leave.

2. Impact on the Lives of Ukrainians in the UK

The UPE helps individuals and families avoid the uncertainty of their visa expiring while the war in Ukraine continues. It supports stability by allowing people to keep their jobs, stay in their homes, and ensure uninterrupted access to education and healthcare. It also enables community integration without the immediate concern of leaving the UK.

However, the UPE is not a settlement route. Time spent under the scheme does not count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain or British citizenship. Those who wish to settle permanently in the UK must explore alternative immigration routes that lead to settlement.

Section Summary — The UPE provides practical and legal security for Ukrainians in the UK by maintaining key entitlements and confirming continued lawful status. While it offers immediate benefits and stability, it does not provide a path to settlement.

Section E: FAQs

This section answers common questions about the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE). Always check the official UK Government website for the latest updates before applying.

1. Who is eligible for the UPE?

Ukrainians and eligible family members holding current permission under the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine), Ukraine Family Scheme, or Ukraine Extension Scheme, or a qualifying Ukraine-related grant of leave. You must apply within the final 28 days of your current permission.

2. How long does the extension last?

The UPE grants an additional 18 months of leave. In July 2025, the Government confirmed it intends to extend leave beyond this period — further details will be published.

3. Is there a fee for applying?

No. The UPE is free to apply for.

4. Can I work in the UK under the UPE?

Yes. You retain the same rights to work as under your original Ukraine-route permission.

5. Can I access public funds?

Yes. You remain eligible for benefits and housing assistance.

6. Can I travel outside the UK while on the UPE?

Yes, but extended absences may impact eligibility for future immigration routes. Always check travel conditions before leaving the UK.

7. Does time under the UPE count towards settlement?

No. Time spent under the UPE does not count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain or British citizenship.

8. What happens if my visa expires before I apply?

If you miss the 28-day window and your visa expires, you risk becoming an overstayer and losing your rights. Contact the Home Office or seek legal advice immediately if this occurs.

Section F: Conclusion

The Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE) is a critical safeguard for Ukrainians in the UK whose original Ukraine-route visas are nearing expiry. By granting an additional 18 months of leave — with the Government committed to further extension — it ensures continuity of rights, access to services, and the ability to remain lawfully during an ongoing conflict.

Applicants must take care to apply within the strict 28-day window before their current leave expires to maintain uninterrupted lawful status and benefit from section 3C protection while the Home Office processes the application.

While the UPE provides stability, it is not a route to settlement. Those who wish to remain in the UK permanently should consider other immigration categories that lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain. Until then, the UPE offers vital protection and continuity for thousands of Ukrainians and their families.

Section G: Glossary

Section H: Useful Links