The United Kingdom continues its programme to protect Ukrainians: details

The United Kingdom has announced the extension of the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) programme, which allows Ukrainians to remain in the country while retaining their right to work, housing and social support. The decision was made against the backdrop of approaching visa expiry dates and growing concerns among migrants. Find out who is eligible for the extension, how to apply and what changes await programme participants

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The United Kingdom has decided to extend the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) scheme for another 24 months, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced during a speech in the House of Commons.

‘We will continue to contribute to supporting Ukraine by extending the UPE programme for an additional 24 months; details will be published later,’ she emphasised.

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What is known about the Ukraine Permission Extension programme?

This is a programme that allows Ukrainian citizens (and their families) who are already in the UK under one of the Ukrainian visa schemes (Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Family Scheme, Ukraine Extension Scheme) or who have permission to stay ‘outside immigration rules’ to extend their legal stay in the country for up to 18 months.

The programme is free and provides the same rights as the original status, including work, housing, access to benefits and education.

For successful application, it is recommended to contact qualified visa lawyers. Specialists will advise on the necessary documents, help with the preparation of the application and provide full legal support for the process from the beginning to a positive decision.

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What problems do Ukrainians face in the UK?

It was previously reported that thousands of Ukrainians in the UK are at risk of being left homeless. According to The Guardian, despite significant government funding, some of the allocated funds have not been used by local councils. This creates a situation where refugees are left to face the difficulties of finding housing on their own, despite the availability of support resources.

According to the publication, English councils received about £1 billion to support Ukrainian refugees. However, almost £327 million — a third of the budget — remains in the councils' accounts. This money was supposed to go towards finding and providing housing, but a significant portion was spent on paying staff or partner organisations.

By comparison, only £22 million was spent on temporary accommodation, and another £15 million on supporting Ukrainians in the private rental sector. This is a tiny fraction of what is actually needed.

Reminder! The United Kingdom is gradually changing the entry conditions for Ukrainians in 2025. Find out if the United Kingdom is currently accepting Ukrainians, what visas are available, how to apply, and what restrictions are currently in place.

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