The UK government has introduced a significant improvement to the Ukraine Scheme visa extension process. As of March 5, 2025, applicants can now use the UK Immigration: ID Check app when applying for a Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE), eliminating the need to visit a visa center for biometric verification in many cases.
What Has Changed?
Previously, all applicants seeking to extend their stay under the Ukraine Scheme had to schedule appointments at visa application centers to provide their biometric information. The new digital verification option streamlines this process considerably for eligible applicants.
“This update represents an important step in making the extension process more accessible for Ukrainians currently residing in the UK,” said a Home Office spokesperson. “The digital option will save time and reduce travel burdens for many applicants.”
How the New Process Works
The overall application form remains largely unchanged but now offers additional verification options:
BRP Card Holders: Applicants with Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) can scan their cards using the UK Immigration: ID Check app, eliminating the need to visit a visa center.
Passport Holders: Those using passports for identification will still need to attend a visa center for biometric processing.
Technical Issues: If the system cannot read your data through the app, you will be directed to visit a visa center to complete verification.
Important Requirements to Remember
The Home Office emphasizes several critical conditions for successful applications:
- Applicants must be physically present in the UK when submitting their extension application.
- Applicants must not leave the UK while their extension application is being processed.
- Failure to comply with these requirements will result in automatic cancellation of the application.
“These conditions are non-negotiable,” immigration advisor Emma Richardson explains. “If you leave the UK during processing, your application will be treated as if it was never submitted, which could lead to complications with your immigration status.”
How to Get Started
1. Download the UK Immigration: ID Check app:
2. Prepare your BRP card for scanning. Make sure it’s clean and undamaged.
3. Complete your application online at GOV.UK.
Timeframes and Processing
Application Timeline: While processing times vary, most decisions are made within 3-4 weeks of submission.
Digital Status: If your application is successful using the app, you’ll receive a digital immigration status rather than a physical BRP card.
Status Checking: You can view and prove your status through the View and Prove service.
Common Questions
What if my BRP is expired? You can still apply if your visa hasn’t been expired for more than 90 days.
Can family members apply together? Each family member needs their own application, but they can be linked.
What if I have technical problems with the app? Contact the UKVI Resolution Centre for assistance.
Important: The new digital verification option is only available for applications submitted after March 5, 2025. If you applied before this date, you must follow the previous procedure, which requires a visit to a visa application center.
For detailed guidance and video instructions on using the new system, applicants can visit the official GOV.UK guidance page or watch instructional videos provided by the Home Office.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal or financial advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, the authors of this article accept no liability for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on its content. For personalized advice, please consult a qualified professional.
