Ukrainian refugees can apply for a visa extension under the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) scheme, which opened on 4 February 2025.
What does this mean? The scheme will allow Ukrainians and their family members who have been granted permission to stay in the UK under one of the Ukraine schemes to apply for an extension of up to 18 months.
The refugees eligible are those who have been living in the United Kingdom since they were granted permission under one of the Ukraine schemes and must apply when they have 28 days or less remaining in their current permission.
The application can be completed online, but refugees need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport or biometric residence permit (BRP), even if it has expired. If you do not have your BRP, you may need to book an appointment at a visa application center to provide biometric information.
Children born in the UK to Ukrainian nationals who hold permission to stay in the UK under the Ukraine schemes can also apply for the UPE scheme. They must be born after 18 March 2022, and their parents must apply on their behalf.
If you’re looking for more detailed information and how to apply, visit the [GOV.UK guidance page}.
