Anyone who employs Ukrainian nationals should be aware of the latest changes to Immigration Rules – which are effective as of 19 February 2024. These rules mark the end of the Ukrainian Family Scheme. While these schemes do not provide a right to settlement, an extension of up to 18 months will be granted to some Ukrainians after 2025. Those wishing to settle in the UK should assess their options and consider the restrictions on work being implemented in March and April.
Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules HC 556 places new restrictions on immigration for Ukrainian citizens and their family members. This reflects the Government’s move to reduce net migrations, as well as the Ukrainian government’s desire for citizens to return to Ukraine when the ongoing crisis settles down.
Immigration Rule Updates Explained
Under these rules, the Ukraine Family Scheme will no longer be available for new applicants. Only the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship and the Ukraine Extension Schemes will remain operational. The Home Office will be able to refuse access to applicants for not providing information and/or for breaching UK immigration rules.
A grant of permission under the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme will now last for up to 18 months rather than the previous 36-month limit. Furthermore, the Ukraine Extension Scheme is set to end on the 16 May 2024. Despite this, the new rules will allow a child born to a Ukrainian scheme participant in the UK after 18 March 2022 to apply under the Extension Scheme beyond its end date. The child will have immigration permission granted to match their parents’ rights.
The new rules require sponsors under the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme to be a British or Irish citizen, or settled in the United Kingdom.
Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme
The Government has shown that – from 2025, those under a Ukraine Scheme will be able to apply to the new Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme. Those seeking sanctuary in the UK will be able to apply. All applications for extensions must be made 3-months prior to the existing permission ending.
Further details of the scheme will be announced in due course. Applicants who have permission to remain in the United Kingdom for an additional 18-months will continue to have the same rights to work, access to benefits, healthcare, and education as given by their current permission. This – along with previous Ukrainian schemes, are only an interim protection route. They do not lead to settlement rights in the UK. Participants who wish to settle in the UK must urgently review their immigration options.
This article is for guidance and should not be relied upon as legal advice. If you need any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the Quest Advice Line Service for free on 0116 274 9193.
