Home Secretary announces certain visa concessions for Ukrainians

Ukrainians who are on work, study or visit visas in the UK will have their visas temporarily extended or be able to switch onto different visa routes.

The new guidance for Ukrainian nationals in the UK states: "If you're in the UK and unable to return to Ukraine, you may be able to extend your visa or switch to another one even if your visa does not normally allow you to do so."

Changes announced:

• Ukrainian nationals on an existing points-based system route (this includes the Student visa) can extend their leave in the UK. 

• Ukrainian nationals on an existing visitor visa can exceptionally switch into a points-based system immigration route without having to leave the UK. They will need to meet the requirements of that visa route and pay the associated visa fee(s).

• Ukrainian nationals on an existing visitor visa can apply under the family route for further leave without meeting the immigration status requirement, provided they meet the requirements for leave based on exceptional circumstances

• Ukrainian nationals on an existing seasonal worker visa will have their leave in the UK extended to 31 December 2022. Full details can be found in the Skilled Worker visa guidance.

View latest GOV.UK visa guidance for Ukrainian nationals in the UK

English UK will be urgently seeking guidance for Ukrainian nationals who are currently studying on a Visitor visa or Short-term study visa but do not meet the requirements for a Student visa. 

Please contact the team if need visa support relating to a student studying English in the UK.