Are Ukraine visa schemes still open in 2026?

The original Ukraine schemes (Homes for Ukraine and Ukraine Family Scheme) have been through various phases. By 2026, most initial grants of leave have expired or are expiring. Extensions and settlement options are being considered. Check GOV.UK for the latest position, as policy continues to evolve.

Can Ukrainian nationals apply for settlement in the UK?

Ukrainian nationals who arrived under the scheme were typically granted 3 years of leave. As this leave expires, the government has outlined pathways for extension or settlement. The exact terms depend on ongoing policy decisions. Check GOV.UK for the latest announcements.

What work rights do Ukrainians have in the UK?

Ukrainians who arrived under the Homes for Ukraine or Ukraine Family Scheme had full work rights in the UK with no restrictions. They could work in any job, be self-employed, and access public services. These rights continue for the duration of their leave.

Can Ukrainian nationals access public funds?

Yes. Unlike most visa routes, Ukrainians under the scheme had full access to public funds including Universal Credit, housing assistance, and NHS services. This was a specific provision of the Ukraine schemes and differs from standard visa conditions.

Ukraine Visa Schemes in the UK: Current Status 2026

The UK introduced the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme and the Ukraine Family Scheme in 2022, granting 3 years of leave with full work rights and access to public funds. As initial leave periods expire in 2025-2026, extension and settlement options are being developed. This guide covers the current status and next steps for Ukrainian nationals.

The Schemes

Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme

Launched in March 2022, this scheme allowed individuals, charities, and community groups in the UK to sponsor Ukrainian nationals. Sponsors provided accommodation for at least 6 months. Sponsored Ukrainians received 3 years of leave with full rights to work, study, and access public funds.

Ukraine Family Scheme

This scheme allowed Ukrainian nationals with family members already in the UK to join them. Family members included spouses, parents, children, siblings, and extended family. Applicants received 3 years of leave on the same terms as the sponsorship scheme.

Ukraine Extension Scheme

For Ukrainians already in the UK on other visas when the conflict began, the Extension Scheme allowed them to extend their stay. See the GOV.UK Ukraine immigration page.

Current Status in 2026

As initial grants of leave expire, the situation is evolving:

The government has announced measures for those whose leave is expiring
Extension options are being made available
Some Ukrainian nationals may qualify for ILR through other routes (such as the 10-year long residence route)
Switching to other visa categories (such as Skilled Worker or spouse visa) may be an option

Check GOV.UK regularly for the latest announcements.

Rights and Entitlements

While leave is valid, Ukrainian scheme holders have:

Unrestricted right to work and be self-employed
Access to public funds (Universal Credit, housing benefit, etc.)
Free NHS healthcare
Access to education for children
Right to rent accommodation

These rights continue for the duration of leave. For employment guidance, see our employment rights guide.

Planning Ahead

Check when your leave expires and act well in advance
Explore extension options as they are announced
Consider whether you qualify for other visa routes
If you have been working, your employment record supports future applications
Keep all documents relating to your time in the UK
Seek immigration advice if you are unsure about your options — see our solicitor vs DIY guide

Next Steps

If your leave is approaching expiry, check GOV.UK for the latest extension options. If no extension is available, explore alternative visa routes. Seek professional advice if needed.

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