Why the UK is refusing to grant protection to Ukrainians in 2025: reasons and advice

In 2025, the UK began to refuse asylum to Ukrainians more often, recognizing Kyiv and western Ukraine as “generally safe.” Find out why the policy is changing, what rights are being violated, and what to do in such situations

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In 2025, Ukrainians applying for asylum in the UK are increasingly being refused. According to updated instructions from the UK Home Office in January, parts of Ukraine — including Kyiv and western regions — have been deemed “generally safe for return.” This has led to a review of asylum policy, even for those arriving from war-torn regions.

According to The Guardian, the rejection letters state that the risks associated with military action “do not meet the threshold of persecution” under the Geneva Convention on the Status of Refugees, as applicants can allegedly move to “safer” regions of Ukraine.

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Who is affected by the refusal of protection in the UK and why is this cause for concern?

Refusals are even being issued to women and children who have arrived from frontline areas or regions that have been subjected to rocket attacks. This is despite the fact that the humanitarian situation in many areas remains difficult and the threat to security is real.

Lawyers and human rights defenders point out that the new approaches of the British Home Office may violate Article 3 (protection from torture and inhuman treatment) and Article 8 (right to respect for private and family life) of the European Convention on Human Rights. A lawyer representing Ukrainian applicants emphasized that the instructions do not take into account individual circumstances and the real risks faced by people in “formally safe” regions.

Those who are denied asylum remain in a vulnerable position. The lack of official status makes it difficult to find work, obtain housing, access social services, and receive psychological support. Uncertainty leads to increased anxiety, especially among women with children or people who have no one to return to in Ukraine.

Can a refusal to grant asylum be appealed?

In theory, yes, the refusal can be appealed to a British immigration court. However, this requires a clear strategy, legal arguments, and a proper evidence package—for example, medical certificates, documents confirming loss of housing, confirmation of shelling, and photo and video evidence. Qualified legal assistance in such cases significantly increases the chances of a positive decision.

If you are planning to apply for asylum or appeal a refusal, you should seek professional support. The Visit Ukraine platform offers the services of immigration lawyers who have experience working with European immigration systems and can help with preparing documents, drafting applications, and providing legal support in foreign jurisdictions.

What to expect next: will the rules for refugees in the UK be tightened?

Experts indicate that the UK is moving towards a general tightening of its migration policy. After Brexit, the country is increasingly focusing on reducing the number of people receiving long-term protection, including refugees. This forces even vulnerable groups, such as Ukrainian refugees, to prove their right to asylum under tougher conditions.

At the same time, the British Home Office assures that no one who is in real danger in Ukraine will be forcibly returned. According to them, each case is considered individually.

How many Ukrainians have already been granted asylum in the UK?

Since the start of russia's full-scale invasion, the UK has provided protection to over 300,000 Ukrainians. Most of them have taken advantage of temporary protection programs (Homes for Ukraine or Ukraine Family Scheme), which allow them to stay in the country for up to 18 months, with the possibility of extension. However, these programs are not equivalent to refugee status, which provides a wider range of rights and long-term protection.

We remind you! Ukrainian refugees in the UK are trapped. Their temporary visas are expiring, and the government is not offering any path to permanent residence. Despite their integration into society and the danger of returning, thousands of Ukrainians remain without guarantees for the future. Read why London is delaying decisions in our previous article.

Photo: EPA

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