Ukrainians offered sanctuary in the UK will gain greater
certainty about their ability to remain as Russia's
illegal war continues into its fifth year.
Those wishing to extend their stays will now be able to apply up
to 90 days before their current permission expires – three times
the current 28 days.
Ukrainian communities had raised concerns that the shorter window
created undue stress and uncertainty about their legal status in
the UK.
The government has listened and made changes, giving families a
greater sense of security about their futures in this
country.
The Ukraine Permission Scheme has offered a safe place to
live for 310,000 people since it was established in
2022.
In September, the government announced the scheme would be
extended by a further 2 years, providing ongoing sanctuary from
the conflict.
Minister for Migration and Citizenship said:
The UK stands with Ukraine and we are proud to have
offered sanctuary to more than 300,000 Ukrainians since Russia's
barbaric invasion.
We have listened to the concerns of the Ukrainian community and
acted to offer greater peace of mind. This country will remain
your safe haven for as long as the war
continues.
Britain will always offer sanctuary to those in genuine need.
The renewed commitment to Ukraine comes just weeks after
the government expanded
eligibility for Hong Kongers to build new lives in
Britain amid deteriorating rights and freedoms in the
territory.
More than 170,000 Hong Kongers have been welcomed to the UK since
the British National (Overseas) visa route
was established in 2021.
As part of the most sweeping reforms to the asylum system in a
generation, the Home Secretary last year announced plans to
create new humanitarian routes for those genuinely fleeing war
and persecution.
The future capped routes will offer safe and legal alternatives
to dangerous small boat crossings to people around the world and
will be established once order has been restored to Britain's
borders.
The UK remains committed to supporting Ukrainians for
as long as the war continues. The government also recognises
President Zelenskyy's hope that Ukrainians will one day return to
rebuild their country.
