As of January 31, 2025, parents and legal guardians currently in the UK under Ukrainian schemes can sponsor their children to join them. This significant change applies to those with permission to stay under both the Homes for Ukraine program and the Ukraine Permission Extension scheme. This guide explains the eligibility requirements, application process, and important considerations.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible Sponsors: Parents or legal guardians who have permission to stay in the UK under:
- Homes for Ukraine Scheme
- Ukraine Family Scheme
- Ukraine Extension Scheme
- Leave Outside the Rules (LOTR)
Eligible Children:
- Must be under 18
- Must be Ukrainian nationals or immediate family members of Ukrainian nationals
- Must have been residing in Ukraine before January 1, 2022
Duration of Stay
The visa allows children to stay in the UK for:
- Up to 18 months, or
- The remaining duration of the parent’s/guardian’s permission to stay (if less than 18 months)
Rights and Entitlements
Children sponsored under these schemes will have access to:
- Full-time education
- NHS healthcare services
- Social welfare benefits
- Employment opportunities (subject to age-related UK employment laws)
Required Documentation
- Proof of Family Relationship:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Adoption documents (if applicable)
- Legal guardianship papers (if applicable)
- Accommodation Evidence:
- Proof of suitable housing for the entire visa duration
- Evidence of right to occupy the property
- Additional Documents:
- Valid passport or travel document for the child
- Proof of residence in Ukraine before January 2022
- Parent’s/guardian’s current UK immigration status
Understanding Leave Outside the Rules (LOTR)
Leave Outside the Rules is a discretionary permission granted by the Home Office when:
- Standard immigration rules cannot be met
- Exceptional circumstances exist
- Compassionate factors need consideration
Each LOTR application is assessed individually based on its specific circumstances.
Important Considerations
- Parents/guardians acting as sponsors are not eligible for thank you payments (applicable to Homes for Ukraine route)
- The child must live with the sponsoring parent/guardian
- Changes in circumstances must be reported to the Home Office
- The visa can be extended subject to eligibility requirements
- The type of support and benefits available may vary depending on which scheme you are under
Application Process
- Complete the online application form
- Submit all required documentation
- Attend any required biometric appointments
- Wait for the Home Office decision
Further Support
For specific cases and detailed advice, we recommend:
- Consulting qualified immigration advisors
- Contacting local Ukrainian community support groups
- Seeking guidance from registered charities
Legal Disclaimer
This guide is for general information purposes only. Immigration rules and policies may change, and each case should be considered based on its individual circumstances. The website owners and administrators do not accept any liability for actions taken based on this information. For professional legal advice tailored to your situation, please consult qualified immigration lawyers or official Home Office representatives.
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