Home Office Update: Applying to the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme — Full 2025 Guide
- Anna Boyarova
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Overview: What Is the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) Scheme?
The Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) scheme allows Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members who are already living in the UK under one of the Ukraine visa schemes to extend their stay for another 18 months.
According to the Home Office update (4 December 2025), the scheme has now been extended for an additional 24 months, offering up to 3.5 years of total stay for eligible applicants.
It’s free to apply, and applications can be made online. This guide walks you through eligibility, required documents, application steps, and key rules to avoid common mistakes.
Who Can Apply for the UPE Scheme
To qualify for the Ukraine Permission Extension, you must already have been granted permission under one of the following:
Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine)
Ukraine Family Scheme
Ukraine Extension Scheme
You must also:
Be in the UK when applying.
Have been living in the UK, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man since your initial permission was granted.
Remain in an eligible relationship if applying as a partner or family member.
Children Born in the UK
If your child was born in the UK after 18 March 2022 to a Ukrainian parent with valid permission, they can also apply under the UPE.
Apply as soon as possible, since children without status may face NHS charges after three months.
When to Apply
You should apply only when your current permission has 28 days or less remaining.
If you apply too early, your application may be rejected and must be resubmitted closer to the expiry date. If you apply after your permission expires, you may lose your rights to work, rent, or receive benefits until a new decision is made.
Check your expiry date in your UKVI account.
Documents You Need to Apply
Before applying, make sure you have:
A UKVI account with access to your eVisa.
A valid or expired BRP card (if you have one).
Updated identity documents, such as a valid passport or Ukrainian ID.
You’ll also need to provide:
Proof that you’re currently in the UK.
Details about your accommodation.
Information on any time spent outside the UK or Ukraine since your initial visa was granted.
Proof of Living in the UK
Acceptable documents include:
Tenancy or mortgage agreement
Employment letters
School or local authority letters
Bank statements or utility bills
Proof of Identity
You can use one of the following:
A valid international passport
An expired BRP card (if a valid passport was previously provided)
A recently expired Ukrainian national ID card
If you don’t have a passport, you must apply for one or provide evidence that you tried to do so.
Many applicants can reuse their previous biometrics via the UK Immigration: ID Check app, avoiding the need for an in-person visit.
Applying for a Child Under 18
Applications for minors must include:
The child’s birth or adoption certificate
Evidence of parental or guardian nationality and immigration status
Consent letters from parents or guardians if the child lives with another adult
Local authorities applying on behalf of children must provide proof of parental responsibility, such as a court order.
Children are typically granted the same length of permission as their parent or guardian, or 18 months if in local authority care.
Eligibility for Staying in the UK
The UPE scheme is designed for those who continue to need sanctuary. You must show you’ve been living in the UK continuously since your initial grant.
Temporary absences (e.g., short visits or holidays) don’t affect eligibility, but longer absences over 12 months may require evidence of ongoing ties to the UK.
Applying as a Family Member
If you’re not a Ukrainian national, you can apply if you are:
The partner, child, or parent of a Ukrainian national
A fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner
A carer of a Ukrainian child
You’ll need to show proof of the relationship — such as a marriage or birth certificate.
If you’re no longer in the relationship, you may still qualify if you are the parent or guardian of a Ukrainian child in the UK.
Travelling Outside the UK
Do not travel outside the UK while your application is being considered. If you leave, your application will be withdrawn automatically.
You must be physically in the UK when submitting your UPE application.
How to Apply
You can apply online once your permission has 28 days or less remaining.
Before applying:
Log into your UKVI account.
Check your identity documents are updated.
Ensure you’re inside the UK.
Prepare your passport, BRP, and supporting documents.
Applications are free and processed within 8 weeks.
After You Apply
Once submitted, you may be able to continue your stay under section 3C leave, meaning you won’t become an overstayer while awaiting a decision.
You can prove your ongoing rights to work, rent, or access benefits via the View and Prove Service .
What You’ll Receive
If approved:
You’ll receive an updated eVisa valid for 18 months (or longer under new extensions).
You can work, study, rent, and access public benefits during this period.
Your digital status will be viewable in your UKVI account.
Always check that your eVisa is linked to your current passport before traveling abroad.
Updating Your Details
You must keep your UKVI account details updated, especially if you renew your passport or change address.
Update online at: Update UKVI account .
Getting Help and Support
Only regulated advisers can submit applications on your behalf, though others can provide translation or technical assistance.
If need any assistance. please talk to our advisers:
Tel (WhatsApp): +44 7513621625
Book a consultation: Calendly - Premium Visa Solutions Ltd
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does the UPE application take?
Most applicants receive a decision within 8 weeks.
2. Can I apply from outside the UK?
No. Applications made abroad will be rejected.
3. What happens if I miss the 28-day window?
Late applications may result in a temporary loss of rights to work or benefits.
4. Is there a fee for the application?
No, it’s completely free.
5. Can my child apply with me?
Yes, children can be included, or you can apply on their behalf if they were born after 18 March 2022.
6. Can I still travel during the process?
No. Traveling outside the UK will withdraw your application automatically.
Conclusion
The Ukraine Permission Extension scheme provides essential stability for Ukrainians and their families already rebuilding their lives in the UK. With the new 2025 Home Office update, applicants now have the chance to extend their stay up to 3.5 years — maintaining access to work, education, and support.
For full details, visit the official UK Government guidance.
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