Ukrainian nationals and their family members with Ukraine Scheme permission can apply for the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) scheme within 90 days of their current permission ending, for first and second applications, from 8 April 2026.
Key facts
- Who: Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members living in the UK with permission under a Ukraine scheme, including those applying for a first or second UPE extension, and children under 18
- From: 8 April 2026
- Source: Applying to the Ukraine Permission Extension scheme
Updates the guidance on when to apply and what applicants must provide.
The guidance says applicants can apply to UPE up to 90 days before their current Ukraine Scheme permission expires. This applies to both first and second UPE applications. UPE gives 18 months' permission; a further extension is for 24 months. It is free to apply.
Applying at any point in the 90-day window does not reduce the permission granted. Any time left on the current permission is added to the new grant. If an applicant applies too early, the application may be rejected, but they can submit another free application within the 90 days.
Applicants must be in the UK when they apply. An application from outside the UK is not valid and may be rejected.
Before applying, applicants need a UKVI account with access to their eVisa. Identity documents they will use must be added to the account before the application is made. They should also have their passport and expired biometric residence permit (BRP) to hand, as these may be required.
In the application, applicants must prove their identity, confirm they are in the UK, confirm whether they previously held permission on a Ukraine Scheme, give accommodation details, and give details of any time spent living outside the UK or Ukraine since being granted permission. Evidence is generally not uploaded with the application, but a caseworker may ask for it. Non-English or non-Welsh documents need a full dated and signed translation.
An applicant who has already given the Home Office a valid passport does not need to resubmit it. Others must submit one, or show they have applied for one. Some applicants may need a biometrics appointment at a UK Visas and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
For a child under 18, the application needs the child's full birth certificate showing the parents' details, plus evidence of the parent's or guardian's nationality or identity document and immigration status. Further documents depend on who the child lives with.
Most decisions are made within 8 weeks. A successful application starts new permission from the date of the decision.
What this means for applicants
Applicants must apply before current permission expires, and can do so from 90 days before. Someone who applies after expiry loses their rights to work, rent and receive benefits until a decision is made, and may have to repay public funds received in that period. This does not apply to an in-time application decided after expiry: permission continues under section 3C leave. Applicants should not travel outside the UK or the Common Travel Area while waiting, or the application will be withdrawn.
Related guide
UK visa for Ukrainian citizens