Home Office to waive visa fees for Ukraine orchestras

Home Secretary Priti Patel has waived visa fees for the Ukraine Freedom Orchestra (UFO) and the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra to perform in the UK in a further show of solidarity with the country.

The musicians will be playing as part of the UFO, which is due to come to the UK next month to perform at a series of events including BBC Proms and the Edinburgh International Festival for its 75^thAnniversary.

The Kyiv Symphony Orchestra is due to perform in the UK this November.

The UK stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine and continues to provide unequivocal support.

Minister for Safe and Legal Migration, Kevin Foster, said: 

“The Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra and Kyiv Symphony Orchestra have shown incredible resilience and bravery in the face of conflict and the UK is honoured to welcome their musical talent. 

“The UK is unwavering in its support for Ukraine, and it is incredibly important we keep raising awareness of the barbaric invasion ongoing in Ukraine. Celebrating Ukraine’s culture and music is one way we can keep the country alive in people’s minds.”