The United Kingdom has announced the launch of a new initiative called the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme (UPE), which will provide Ukrainians and their families with the opportunity to extend their stay in the country. The program will take effect from February 4, 2025.
Under the UPE, Ukrainian citizens will be able to remain in the United Kingdom for an additional 18 months.
However, the permit extension procedure will not be automatic. Applications will be accepted from February 4, 2025, and must be submitted at least 28 days before the expiration of the current visa. Applications can only be submitted within the United Kingdom.
Processing of applications may take up to 8 weeks. During this period:
🔻the applicant is prohibited from leaving the country;
🔻all rights, legal status, and social protection are maintained.
The UPE program will replace the previous Ukraine Extension Scheme (UES). If the application is approved, the residence permit will be renewed in the form of an electronic visa with updated information.