Successful Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme applicants get an eVisa only, accessed through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, according to GOV.UK guidance updated on 22 May 2026.
Key facts
- Who: Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members applying under the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme
- Source: Apply for a visa under the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme
The "After you've applied" section of the guidance says: "If your visa application is successful, you will get an eVisa only." Applicants must create a UKVI account to access the eVisa, and they use it to travel to the UK.
An eVisa is a digital record of identity and immigration permission in the UK, and of any conditions that apply. The decision email or letter tells the applicant how to access it. Once the application is granted, the UKVI account shows the person's digital status. They can use the view and prove service to share their immigration status and conditions, such as the right to work or rent, with others including employers and landlords.
Applicants who did not apply with an acceptable identity document are issued with a form for accompanying an eVisa (FAV) as well as an eVisa. The guidance says the FAV, when linked to the eVisa, allows travel to the UK. These applicants must return to the visa application centre (VAC) to collect the FAV before they travel.
Other points in the guidance on the application process include:
- Applying is free, and there is no Immigration Health Surcharge or biometric enrolment fee.
- Everyone applies separately, online, and must attend a VAC appointment to have a photograph and fingerprints taken.
- Children under 5 do not have fingerprints taken but must still attend a VAC appointment and have a digital photograph taken.
- Applicants must wait for a decision from UK Visas and Immigration before travelling, and the guidance says it aims to decide within 3 weeks.
- A successful applicant can stay in the UK for up to 18 months.
The guidance also states that permission to travel letters are no longer valid and cannot be used to travel to or enter the UK. Anyone who tries to do so may be refused entry and removed.
What this means for applicants
A successful applicant receives an eVisa and must create a UKVI account to access it before travelling. The decision email or letter explains how. An applicant who did not apply with an acceptable identity document is issued with a FAV in addition to the eVisa, and must collect it from the VAC before travelling.
A sponsor who completes the form on an applicant's behalf must add the applicant's contact details, so that the applicant can access the application form and all the decision letters.
Related guide
UK visa for Ukrainian citizens