uk tourist visa for ukrainian citizen

Blog Home Office in the media

https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2022/03/11/factsheet-home-office-visa-support-for-ukrainians/

Factsheet: Home Office visa support for Ukrainians

• The Home Office stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people fleeing Ukraine following the Russian invasion.
• The generous Ukraine Family Scheme provides an immediate pathway for people from Ukraine with family already in the UK to come here.
• It is designed to allow as many as people as possible to come to the UK and gives them immediate access to the support they need.
• The Scheme was developed in close consultation with Ukrainian leaders and the diaspora community to ensure our measures respond directly to their needs and asks, and we will continue to work with them to make changes as necessary.
• Ukrainians with valid passports and who are eligible for the Scheme do not need to go to a Visa Application Centre to give their biometrics before they come to the UK.
• The Ukraine Extension Scheme, which will go live on 3 May, will give Ukrainians already in the UK on temporary visas, alongside their family members, three years’ leave and full access to work, study and public funds.
• We continue to keep our support under constant review and will adapt and develop the visa routes in place to ensure they keep pace with the rapidly shifting situation in Ukraine.

Eligibility

Family members of British nationals and those settled in the UK are eligible to come to here. This includes:

• Immediate family members (spouses, civil partners, partners, children under 18 and parents of children under 18)
• Grandparents
• Grandchildren
• Adult children
• Aunts and uncles
• Nieces and nephews

Visa requirements

The Ukraine Family Scheme is a fee-free visa route. There are no salary or language tests, but people will need to pass security checks.

How to apply with a valid passport

From Tuesday 15 March, valid Ukraine passport holders do not need to attend in-person Visa Application Centre appointments to submit fingerprints or facial verification when making applications under the Ukraine Family Scheme.

Once their application has been considered and the appropriate checks completed, they will receive direct notification that they are eligible for the scheme.

The majority of applications can be completed entirely online without attending a Visa Appointment Centre.

All applicants will still need to complete an online application form . Application forms must be completed for each family member, including one application per child.

Step-by-step guide

• Individual fills in the online application form
• Individual uploads scan of their passport
• Casework teams in the UK do appropriate biographical / security checks
• Individual receives email confirming permission to come to the UK, which they present to the transport carrier as authority to travel
• Border Force officers do any appropriate additional checks (e.g. safe guarding) on arrival and stamp their passport with six months’ leave to enter
• Individual visits a visa centre in the UK to give biometrics which finalises the grant of 36 months’ leave

How to apply without a valid passport

Applicants who hold identity cards and do not have a valid passport will still need to attend a VAC in person and provide their biometric information.

When applicants have completed an online form , they can book an appointment at any Visa Application Centre throughout Europe.

They should then attend their Visa Application Centre appointment, where they be required to submit their biometric information.

Once the visa application has been processed, we will contact applicants.

Applicants should remain in the location where they have submitted their application until they are contacted.

Leave to remain in the UK

• Those joining family in the UK through the Ukraine Family Scheme and people with temporary visas in the UK who apply to the Ukraine Extension Scheme will be granted leave for three years.
• Valid passport holders who have not attended a VAC will be granted six months leave to enter the UK outside the rules, enabling them to work, study and claim benefits immediately. Once they have submitted biometric data in the UK, they will have their leave extended to three years.

Ukraine Extension Scheme

• The Ukraine Extension Scheme will go live on 3 May and will be open to Ukrainians in the UK on temporary visas, including work, study, or visitor visas, alongside their family members, to apply for three years’ leave to remain in the UK.
• Any Ukrainian whose leave to remain in the UK expired between 1 January 2022 and the Ukraine Extension Scheme coming into effect will still qualify for three years’ leave.
• Ukrainians here as workers (including under the Seasonal Work route)
• Ukrainians here as students and graduates
• Ukrainians here as visitors
• Ukrainians here with leave under the family and private life routes
• Ukrainians here as the dependants of third country nationals in any route
• Ukrainians here with exempt status
• Ukrainians here who have been granted temporary leave to enter or remain outside the rules
• Ukrainians here with pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
• The non-Ukrainian dependants of Ukrainians in these cohorts, who would be granted leave in line.
• If you want information on the Ukraine Family Scheme, you should call the dedicated Home Office line +44 (0)808 164 8810 – select option 1.  This option is now available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
• If you are a Ukrainian national in the UK and need assistance, please call the dedicated Home Office line  +44 (0)808 164 8810 – select option 1. This option is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
• Further advice can be found at:  Support for family members of British nationals in Ukraine, and Ukrainian nationals in Ukraine and the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Myth buster:

Why don’t you just waive visas.

• We’ve already waived some of the normal requirements under this scheme, in order to help people forced to flee be reunited with their families in the UK as quickly as possible.
• Security and identity checks are a fundamental part of our visa process in order to keep people in this country safe, and this is consistent with our approach to the evacuation of Afghanistan.
• That is vital both to keep British citizens safe, but also to ensure that we are helping those in genuine need – as the Minister set out, we are already seeing people presenting false documents claiming to be Ukrainians.

Can’t you just do biometric checks on the street? Why do you need to go to the VAC?

• We take biometrics in secure VACs for the safety and security of our customers and staff, and to ensure sensitive data captured on our biometrics equipment is secure.

Sharing and comments

Share this page, related content and links, about this blog.

Home Office in the media is the Home Office's blog on the latest topical home affairs issues. It features a review of leading media stories, responses to breaking news, rebuttal to inaccurate reports, and ministerial comment.

Find out more about the blog.

Sign up and manage updates

• Twitter @UKHomeOffice

Recent Posts

• Latest statement in response to small boat crossings 26 April 2024
• Media factsheet: eVisas   17 April 2024
• Windrush Schemes Factsheet – February 2024 11 April 2024

Other useful websites

• Home Office
• Media enquiries - Home Office
• Border Force
• HM Passport Office
• Disclosure and Barring Service
• General Register Office

Comments and moderation

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• LinkedIn LinkedIn
• Twitter Twitter
• Facebook Facebook

UK visa measures for Ukrainian nationals and their family members

08 March 2022

The Home Office has put in place immediate concessions and has announced new immigration schemes for Ukrainian nationals in response to the Ukraine conflict.

The information in this article is correct at 8 March 2022. The policy situation is still evolving, and the below GOV.UK website pages should be checked for the current position:

• UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Apply for a Ukraine Family Scheme visa (www.gov.uk)
• Ukraine Scheme - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Local Sponsorship Scheme for Ukraine - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Ukrainian nationals on work and study routes: concessions to the Immigration Rules - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Ukraine: what you can do to help - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Ukraine travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Additional measures outside of existing asylum/humanitarian protection laws

The current measures put in place by the British government in response to the specific situation in Ukraine include the following:

• The Ukraine Family Scheme
• The Local Sponsorship Scheme for Ukraine
• Concessions to the normal work and study Rules

Depending on an individual’s particular circumstances, they may also be able to make an asylum or humanitarian protection claim, however this is outside the scope of this article. Pro bono advice on this may be available through the Ukraine Advice Project UK or through advisers listed by the Refugee Council .

Ukraine Family Scheme

This scheme is intended for immediate and extended family members of UK-based sponsors. The immediate family members of extended family members can also apply.

The Home Office’s caseworker guidance for the scheme confirms that it now supersedes the concessions originally announced for UK family route applications from 14 February 2022, and that any outstanding applications made under those concessions will now be considered under the Scheme.

The caseworker guidance indicates that Immigration Rules for the scheme should be made effective from 16 March 2022, however at the time of writing no Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules has yet been published. Applications to the scheme are currently being granted outside the Immigration Rules.

Application process and grant

The application is free and no Immigration Health Charge is payable.

Successful applicants will be granted immigration permission for up to three years. They will be allowed to work and access public funds, but may be required to obtain permission under the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) if they wish to study certain courses in the UK.

At the time of writing this scheme has only been set up for entry clearance applications. Applicants must attend a VAC and provide their biometrics and passport or other identity documentation if they have this available.

Full details of the in-country process will be forthcoming in the near future. Individuals intending to apply from within the UK can monitor Apply for a Ukraine Family Scheme visa - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) for updates.

In the meantime, the Ukraine Family Scheme caseworker guidance does confirm that in-country applicants who apply as an overstayer or while they are on immigration bail will not be refused for these reasons under the scheme.

The Home Office has published application data on the scheme here .

Eligibility

The UK-based sponsor must be one of the following:

• A British citizen
• A person who is settled in the UK (this includes people with indefinite leave to remain or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme)
• A person who has pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, and who started living in the UK before 1 January 2021
• A person with refugee status or humanitarian protection

The scheme cannot be used by family members of individuals with other forms of limited immigration permission in the UK.

An immediate family member of a UK-based sponsor is limited to:

• Spouse or civil partner
• Unmarried partner (this will be recognised where the couple have lived together for at least two years)
• Parent, where the UK-based sponsor is aged under 18
• Child aged under 18 of the UK-based sponsor
• Fiance(e) or proposed civil partner of the UK-based sponsor

An extended family member of a UK-based sponsor is limited to:

• Parent, where the UK-based sponsor is over 18
• Child who is over 18
• Grandparent
• Grandchild of the UK-based sponsor or the UK-based sponsor’s partner
• Brother or sister
• Aunt or uncle
• Niece or nephew
• Mother-in-law or father in-law
• Grandparent-in-law
• Brother or sister-in-law

An immediate family member of an extended family member is limited to:

• Spouse, civil partner or unmarried partner of an extended family member
• Child under 18 of an extended family member
• Parent of a child under 18 who is an extended family member
• Fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner of an extended family member

Some additional general stipulations are:

• The applicant must have been living in the Ukraine on or immediately before 1 January 2022 unless they are already present in the UK or are a child born or adopted on or after that date. From the online form, this is initially confirmed through self-certification. The caseworker guidance confirms that the starting point is that applicants will be believed if they self-certify, and notes that case workers can grant an application without the usual documentation. Evidence of residence can be submitted if available and the guidance sets out some examples. Caseworkers are instructed to ask for additional evidence if there is reason to believe the requirement is not met.
• The definitions of relationships set out in the caseworker guidance need to be met
• The relationship between a UK-based family member (or an extended family member) and their spouse, civil partner, fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner must have started before 1 January 2022
• An immediate family member of an extended family member must apply either at the same time as the extended family member or after the extended family member has been granted immigration permission under the scheme

There is scope for other family members who do not fit within the recognised categories to be granted immigration permission under the scheme where they can show there are exceptional circumstances. Applications for foster children will also be considered. As these types of application will be referred to more senior officials, processing of them may be slower than for other applicants.

Local Sponsorship Scheme for Ukraine

Specific details for this scheme are not yet available but it is intended for Ukrainians who do not have family ties to the UK.

Sponsors under the scheme can be:

• Communities
• Private individuals
• Local authorities

The scheme will be set up by the Department for Levelling Up , in coordination with the devolved administrations.

Immigration permission will be granted for an initial stay of 12 months, with work and access to public funds being permitted. Integration and housing support will also be included for participants.

EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit

The guidance on GOV.UK for applying to the Ukraine Family Scheme highlights that some eligible individuals may also be eligible to apply for an EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit. The Home Office asks individuals not to apply under both routes, and states that it will be possible to apply under the EU Settlement Scheme after arrival in the UK irrespective of which route is pursued for entry clearance.

It may be advantageous for this option to be taken up, because the EU Settlement Scheme leads to settlement, whereas at present it is not known whether the Ukraine Family Scheme will lead to settlement, and/or whether time spent in this category will be counted towards settlement under other settlement routes.

On the other hand, there is a known backlog for EU Settlement Scheme Family Permits, with some applications taking in excess of three months to decide. It will of course be critical for individuals to be able to reach the UK as soon as possible and it is not clear whether applying for an EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit will delay this process.

We have enquired with the Home Office about whether and how individuals displaced by the crisis in Ukraine can be prioritised if they apply for an EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit and have asked for information on this point to be published on GOV.UK.

Concessions to work and study routes

Ukrainian citizens and their dependent partners and children who either entered the UK before 24 February 2022 or made an entry clearance application before this date and have since arrived in the UK can access a range of concessions . These cover:

• Switching from one immigration category to another, where this would normally not be allowed under the Immigration Rules
• Document flexibility where an applicant provides a sufficient and reasonable explanation why they cannot provide a document that is normally required for their application
• Waiver of TB testing
• Extension of immigration permission for Seasonal Workers, HGV drivers and pork butchers to 31 December 2022

Other immigration routes

Ukrainian citizens are of course able to make an application under any other UK immigration category that is normally available.

Entering the UK

To-date the UK government has declined to waive the visa requirement for Ukrainian citizens. This means that Ukrainian citizens must normally have a UK visa in place before seeking to enter the UK.

The Ukraine Family Scheme caseworker guidance confirms that individuals who intend to enter the UK under the scheme must apply for entry clearance in this capacity.

However, individuals who arrive at a UK port who do not have the correct entry clearance but who meet the family relationship requirements for the scheme should be considered by Border Force for leave to enter the UK outside the Immigration Rules for a period of six months. They will then be able to apply in-country for the scheme once it has opened for in-country applicants.

This provision could benefit Ukrainian citizens or other eligible applicants who already hold a valid UK visa, either as a visitor or in another capacity, as well as non-visa nationals who are able to apply for UK immigration permission at the border. This is because leave outside the Rules is likely to be granted without many of the immigration conditions that would normally apply to visitors or other limited permission holders.

In theory it is possible under this policy for a visa national who arrives at a UK juxtaposed control point in France or Belgium to demonstrate their family relationship and request leave to enter outside the Immigration Rules, but recent press reports indicate this does not appear to be happening in practice.

Whether new visitor visa applications for Ukrainian citizens will be granted will depend on whether the Immigration Rules for visitors are met in full. This would include having an intention to leave the UK at the end of the visit and otherwise being a genuine visitor, so in the current circumstances it is unlikely that a person who has fled from Ukraine will be able to demonstrate this.

It is not yet clear how long it will take to process applications under the Ukraine Family Scheme or Local Sponsorship Scheme for Ukraine. In the meantime, affected individuals may need to stay in an interim location before proceeding to the UK. The available options for such individuals would need to be considered on a case-by-case basis.

As a general point, the Home Office always has discretion to grant immigration permission outside the Immigration Rules, so individuals may consider making a UK visa application relying on this discretion where, for example, they have compelling or compassionate reasons to advance.

Issues that need resolving

Various issues still need resolving, including whether immigration permission granted under the Ukraine Family Scheme or Local Sponsorship Scheme for Ukraine will lead to settlement or will be counted towards the qualifying period required for settlement in other immigration categories.

As issues come to light, these will be flagged to the Home Office for resolution. It is therefore anticipated that the Immigration Rules and guidance on the provisions available for Ukrainian citizens and their family members will be subject to frequent updating in the short to medium-term.

We will be keeping our clients updated on significant developments as they arise. If you have queries about these arrangements, please contact a member of our Immigration Team .

Related items

Related services.

• Immigration

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Ukrainians can extend UK visas by 18 months in new scheme

Refugees will have ‘certainty and assurance’ says Home Office, but charities say move insufficient as many face homelessness

Ukrainians who sought sanctuary in the UK after the Russian invasion will be permitted to extend their visas for an extra 18 months, the Home Office has announced.

More than 200,000 Ukrainians visa holders have arrived in the UK since March 2022, with the first visas to expire in March next year. The Home Office said that the new scheme would provide “certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK.

This weekend, the government appealed for more British families to come forward to sponsor Ukrainians. But the Local Government Association (LGA) sounded a note of caution, urging the government to review the financial support for Ukrainians facing the risk of homelessness.

Tom Pursglove, minister for legal migration, said: “Families across the country have opened their homes and their hearts to the people of Ukraine , showing extraordinary generosity, including offering shelter to those fleeing from the horrors of war.

“This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict.”

Eduard Fesko, charge d’affaires at the Ukrainian embassy, said the announcement was a “clear signal” of the UK government support for Ukraine.

He said: “We appreciate all the help and assistance that our UK friends so generously provide for the temporarily displaced Ukrainians.” People across the UK were encouraged to open their homes to Ukrainian refugees in March 2022, after the Russian invasion, with housing secretary Michael Gove saying they had a “long and proud history of helping others in their hour of need”. He said the visa schemes were a “lifeline” to those who were forced to flee.

Under Homes for Ukraine, the Ukraine Family Scheme and the Ukraine Extension Scheme, visa holders were granted three years leave in the UK, which would have meant the first visas expired in March 2025.

As of 12 February, there have been 143,400 arrivals under the Homes for Ukraine scheme and 56,800 arrivals under the Ukraine Family Scheme. Another 31,400 Ukrainians have had applications granted for extensions under the Ukraine Family Scheme and the Ukraine Extension Scheme.

Under Homes for Ukraine, sponsoring households receive £350 a month for the first year and £500 a month in the second and third years. The “thank you” payments of £500 a month were extended into a third year in the autumn budget.

The LGA warned this weekend that a significant number of Ukrainians in the UK were facing homelessness. Roger Gough, LGA asylum refugee and migration spokesperson said: “Councils work incredibly hard to support asylum and resettlement and have helped communities welcome around 200,000 Ukrainian refugees since the start of the war.

“However, the pressures of multiple asylum and resettlement schemes are still being compounded by chronic housing shortages. This has resulted in a high number of Ukrainians and refugees leaving asylum accommodation and having to present as homeless.

“As the Ukraine visa schemes were designed to provide temporary sanctuary, the funding arrangements for councils to support arrivals need urgent review as councils continue to provide crucial longer-term support, including integration and housing support as sponsorship arrangements come to an end.”

A report by the British Red Cross warned in November that Ukrainians were struggling to get the required support to find long-term housing. It found 6,220 Ukrainian families expected to have applied for homelessness support in the UK by the end of this financial year.

The Home Office said applications for the visa extensions would be open online from early 2025. There are no application fees for these existing schemes and the Home Office has yet to announce the fee for these new extensions.

• The Observer
• Homelessness
• Social exclusion

Most viewed

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie policy
• Cancellation and Refund Policy

Visa Concessions for Ukrainians

The Home Office has introduced a temporary concession for Ukrainians in the UK as visitors, seasonal workers, skilled workers, students, HGV drivers, or pork butchers. There are also new measures to help Ukrainian residents with family ties and those without family ties to migrate to the UK.

We are offering  free advice sessions  to help you navigate this difficult time. Please use the contact form for immediate help & assistance with your extending or switching your visa based on the new provisions.

Request a call back from our immigration experts

• Our Services
• Content /Overview
• Related Pages

Benefits of Choosing IAS’ Immigration Lawyers

At IAS, we understand that every case and client is unique, so we provide bespoke assessment and support to each client. With us, you get a dedicated immigration lawyer who is dedicated to ensuring your application is successful. Enjoy the following benefits with IAS:

Compassionate support from an experienced immigration lawyer dedicated to your success

Support in gathering supporting documents and completing a high-quality application.

A personalised Letter of Representation to help compile a compelling case for approval

Continued support from your lawyer in the event of any complications.

Services we Provide

Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.

We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.

Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.

Overview of Ukrainian Concessions In The UK

In response to the situation in Ukraine, the Home Office has announced visa concessions to support Ukrainians with valid visas in the UK as well as other measures to assist Ukrainian residents with migrating to the UK.

Ukrainians in the UK with an existing UK visa that will expire soon can have their visas temporarily extended based on the visa’s standard requirements or until 31st December 2022. These concessions are for Ukrainian nationals on a visitor visa, student visa, skilled worker visa, and those in the UK as Seasonal Workers and HGV drivers.

Currently, the visa application centre in Kyiv is closed but the Home Office has agreed to support non-British family members of British citizens who are in Ukraine to migrate to the UK for free and quickly.

The Home Secretary has also announced that a new humanitarian support pathway will be launched to help Ukrainian residents who don’t have family ties in the UK.

Ukrainian residents can still apply for UK visas from neighboring countries.

We are offering  free legal advice to all Ukrainian nationals and residents  looking to migrate to or extend their stay in the UK, not just those who fall within the concessions.

Migrating to the UK for Ukrainians with family ties

Ukrainian residents who have immediate family members who are a British national that normally lives in Ukraine can currently apply free of charge for a family migration visa at an application centre in Lviv.

Qualifying immediate family members for this route include spouse or civil partners, unmarried partners (together for over 2 years), a parent if you are under the age of 18, your child under the age of 18 or an adult dependent relative who you provide care for.

Usually, there are other certain requirements you must meet under this route, such as the English language requirement or the minimum income requirement, due to the current circumstances in Ukraine the UKVI may be able to grant you permission to enter the UK for 12 months if you are unable to meet all of the requirements.

The Home Secretary has also just launched the Ukraine Family Scheme, which allows both immediate and extended Ukrainian family members of British citizens and people settled in the UK to apply for a UK visa free of charge. Applications for the scheme are now open, for more information on how to apply or to find out if you are eligible get in touch with our lawyers today on  0333 305 9375 , we will offer you professional immigration advice free of charge.

Humanitarian Support Pathway

Currently, only Ukrainians with family ties in the UK are eligible to apply for a visa. In response to this, the government has announced that they will be establishing a humanitarian support pathway to create a route for Ukrainian residents who don’t have family ties in the UK to migrate here.

Under the humanitarian sponsorship pathway, Ukrainians without family ties to the UK will be able to match with individuals, charities, businesses, and community groups to get sponsorship for entry to the UK.

Those who immigrate to the UK under the humanitarian support scheme will be given leave to remain in the UK for 12 months, they will also be able to work and access public services in the UK.

The humanitarian support pathway scheme has not yet opened for applications and the Home Office has not announced when the scheme will launch. As soon as the scheme opens, our immigration lawyers will be able to assist with applications.

Ukrainians with a UK Visitor Visa?

Although a UK  visitor visa  doesn’t usually allow you to switch to another route, you can do so temporarily if you are a Ukrainian national.

If you are in the UK as a visitor and are unable to return to Ukraine, given the deteriorating circumstances, you may be able to switch from your existing visitor visa to a points-based route or family visa route.

The UK points-based system covers all standard UK visas for workers and students. That includes these categories:

• High-value immigrants, such as  investors  and  entrepreneurs
• Skilled workers
• Temporary unskilled workers
• Temporary skilled or  Youth mobility workers

If you have a family member in the UK, you may be able to switch to a UK family visa route, such as:

• Spouse/Civil Partner visa
• Child Dependent visa
• Adult Dependent visa
• Ancestry Visa
• Fiance visa  (includes proposed civil partners)

You must meet the requirements for any visa route you choose, make an application and pay the associated fees.

If you are confused about the route that gives you the best chances of switching your visa, contact us to assess your eligibility and provide advice. We can also help you complete and submit a high-quality application to the Home Office to maximize your chances of success. Please call  0333 305 9375  today.

Ukrainian Nationals on a UK Student Visa

Ukrainian students in the UK whose UK Student visa is due to expire soon can apply to extend their Student visa or switch to a  Graduate visa  if they meet the standard requirements for either visa category.

Requirements to extend the UK Student visa

To extend your  UK Student visa , you must meet these requirements:

• Be a Ukrainian national.
• Be in the UK on a Student visa.
• Have an unconditional offer of a place on a course proven with your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
• Be able to show that you had made academic progress since you first obtained your visa.
• Prove you can support yourself if you have been in the UK for less than 12 months.

Requirements to Switch to the Graduate visa

To switch to the Graduate visa, you must meet these requirements:

• You are a Ukrainian.
• You are in the UK on a Student visa.
• You studied a bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or another eligible course for the minimum time approved on your Student visa in the UK.
• Your university, college, or institution has told you you’ve successfully completed your course.

Ukrainians on a UK Skilled Worker Visa

Ukrainian nationals on a Skilled Worker visa can remain in the UK if they are approved for extension or settlement. To get either, you must apply to the Home Office to extend your leave or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Extending your Skilled Worker Visa as a Ukrainian

With the temporary concessions, you can extend your Skilled worker visa quickly if you meet these requirements:

• You are a Ukrainian in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa
• You have the same job as you did when you were permitted to enter the UK
• Your job still has the same occupation code as when you entered the UK
• You are working for the employer that gave you a  certificate of sponsorship  for your visa

You may need to meet different requirements from those listed above, but that depends on if you have a Skilled Worker visa or Tier 2 (General) work visa and your occupation code.

Applying for Settlement

Settlement is  Indefinite Leave to Remain , and it is a step to  UK citizenship . In light of the current situation in Ukraine, it will be great if you obtain UK settlement, so you don’t have to worry about leaving the UK if the temporary concessions are lifted at any point.

To apply for UK settlement under the temporary concessions, you must meet the immigration status requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain. That includes that you must have lived in the UK for about five years, meet the salary requirements, and will be needed for your job after obtaining indefinite leave to remain.

Call us now on  0333 305 9375  to begin the process of helping you extend your visa or obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK today.

Visa Concessions for Ukrainians who are Seasonal Workers

Ukrainians in the UK who are seasonal workers, HGV drivers, or pork butchers can avail themselves of the temporary concessions to remain in the UK longer than initially approved if they can extend their visa.

Ukrainians who are Seasonal Workers in the UK

If you have an existing seasonal worker visa and cannot return to Ukraine, the Home Office will extend your visa to 31st December 2022 if you meet the requirement, which is that you must continue working in a job permitted by your visa route and with the same sponsor (Scheme Operator).

Unlike most of the other categories, you don’t need to apply or do anything; UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) will work with your sponsor to process your visa extension. If this temporary concession applies to you, you will receive a notification from the Home Office.

Concessions for HGV Drivers

HGV drivers who cannot return to Ukraine can have their leave in the UK extended to 31st December 2022, but they must continue working in their current occupation and with the same sponsor that got them into the UK.

You don’t need to apply for this extension because UKVI will work with your sponsor to process your extension if you are a Ukrainian national to whom this concession applies. You should get a notification from the Home Office if you qualify.

Concessions for Pork Butchers in the UK

Ukraine citizens in pork butcher jobs can apply for a temporary extension in the seasonal worker route to remain in the UK until 31st December 2022. After applying for the seasonal worker extension, UKVI will liaise with your Immigration Sponsor to process the extension.

Alternatively, you can apply for a Skilled Worker visa if you are eligible. Call us today at  0333 305 9375  to review your eligibility, get expert advice on the best route to take, and get assistance in applying for any of the visa routes that are best for you.

Get in touch with our immigration lawyers for assistance with remaining in the UK if you are Ukrainian.

Free legal advice for Ukrainian nationals and residents

At Immigration Advice Service, we understand that the thought of going back to Ukraine because your visa expired must be very heart-breaking at the moment. This is why we want to help you handle the visa and immigration permission so you can remain in the UK legally with peace of mind.

If you are a Ukrainian national, please contact us for assistance with extending or switching your visa, or advice. We are currently offering free advice sessions to Ukrainian nationals and residents to assist with the current situation. When you contact us, we will review your eligibility for your options which are extending your visa, switching to another route, applying for another visa, or applying for Indefinite Leave to remain. When we have realized the best path forward for your particular circumstances, we will help you complete and submit a high-quality application to the Home Office so you have the best of chances for approval.

We are one of the best teams of immigration advisers, experts, and lawyers in the UK and can assist you each step of the way. At IAS, we understand the urgent nature of this and will start working immediately on your case. To  get in contact use the  contact form  above or chat with us using our live chat.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

I have a british family member. can i come to the uk from ukraine.

It depends. The Home Office has provided means for non-British family members of British nationals resident in Ukraine to come to the UK if they can leave Ukraine safely. Eligible family members are:

• Spouse or civil partner
• Unmarried partner who has lived together in a relationship with the British citizen for at least two years
• Child under the age of 18
• Parent if the British child is under the age of 18
• Care provider for a British adult relative who lives with the foreign national due to a medical condition

If you are any of the above, you can apply for a family visa for free, but you must call UKVI before applying. If UKVI confirms that you are eligible, you will receive details of the free application process. If you are not eligible, you may apply for any other UK visa that you qualify for.

The UK embassy in Kyiv is currently closed, but you can give your biometrics at the temporary location at the Lemberg Business Centre in Lviv or apply through a visa application centre (VAC) in Poland, Romania, Hungary or Moldova. You are to upload your documents online before giving your biometrics at the VAC.

The UKVI processes these applications faster than regular family immigration, so expect a response within 24 hours from submitting your biometrics.

If you are not an immediate family member of a British national who usually lives in Ukraine or your immediate British family member lives in the UK, you can apply through a VAC in a nearby country if you can safely travel to that country.

I am a British citizen in Ukraine. What should I do?

The UK government’s priority is to support British nationals. So, if you are in Ukraine and need a passport or an emergency travel document, you can contact the consular office. Her Majesty’s passport service, though prioritising British nationals in Ukraine, may not be able to take applications for a passport. Call the consular office and check for updates from the  gov.uk website  on what to do in the meantime.

What our clients are saying

We are the UK’s leading immigration specialists

OISC Accredited UK Immigration lawyers

We’ve had over 9000 applications approved

We are now open 7 days a week from 8.30am to 6pm.

How our UK Immigration Lawyers can help

At the Immigration Advice Service our lawyers specialise in a wide range of UK visas, nationality and asylum applications and have represented clients in various successful complex and high-profile cases.

Get in Touch

Immigration Advice Service Ashwood House, Ellen Street Oldham, OL9 6QR

We have over 20 offices across the UK, find a branch near you.

Related pages for your continued reading

Corporate Immigration Support

Our lawyers support multinational corporations and entrepreneurs to obtain employee visas, business immigration licences and business visit visas.

UK Family Visa

With IAS’ track record of successfully helping clients achieve their Family visas, we can help you reunite with your partner, parent, or child.

UK Spouse Visa

Obtaining a spouse visa can be nerve racking. You want to get it right the first time and we want that for you as well. Get in touch with us for a personalised spouse visa application service.

Sponsor Licence

Businesses looking to sponsor foreign employees to work in the UK must obtain a sponsor licence. Get in touch with us now for support.

Indefinite Leave to Remain

Get in touch with us for expert, success-oriented assistance for indefinite leave to remain, long residence and settlement in the UK.

Global Immigration

We provide global immigration support in several other countries including the USA, Canada, Spain, Portugal, Germany, New Zealand, Ireland, and France.

In the news

Get in touch with our team

Learn about our professional services and find out how we can help.

Featured on

• What is a visa?
• Electronic Visa (eVisa)
• Visa on Arrival
• Appointment Required Visa
• Invitation Letter
• Arrival Card
• Passport Renewal
• Project Kosmos: Meet the man with the world's most challenging travel schedule
• Australia Visa and ETA requirements for US citizens explained
• Brazil eVisa for US citizens
• India Tourist Visa for UK citizens
• Possible B1/B2 Visa questions during the interview

Select Your Language

• Nederlandse
• 中文 (Zhōngwén), 汉语, 漢語

Select Your Currency

• AED United Arab Emirates Dirham
• AFN Afghan Afghani
• ALL Albanian Lek
• AMD Armenian Dram
• ANG Netherlands Antillean Guilder
• AOA Angolan Kwanza
• ARS Argentine Peso
• AUD Australian Dollar
• AWG Aruban Florin
• AZN Azerbaijani Manat
• BAM Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark
• BBD Barbadian Dollar
• BDT Bangladeshi Taka
• BGN Bulgarian Lev
• BIF Burundian Franc
• BMD Bermudan Dollar
• BND Brunei Dollar
• BOB Bolivian Boliviano
• BRL Brazilian Real
• BSD Bahamian Dollar
• BWP Botswanan Pula
• BZD Belize Dollar
• CAD Canadian Dollar
• CDF Congolese Franc
• CHF Swiss Franc
• CLP Chilean Peso
• CNY Chinese Yuan
• COP Colombian Peso
• CRC Costa Rican Colón
• CVE Cape Verdean Escudo
• CZK Czech Republic Koruna
• DJF Djiboutian Franc
• DKK Danish Krone
• DOP Dominican Peso
• DZD Algerian Dinar
• EGP Egyptian Pound
• ETB Ethiopian Birr
• FJD Fijian Dollar
• FKP Falkland Islands Pound
• GBP British Pound Sterling
• GEL Georgian Lari
• GIP Gibraltar Pound
• GMD Gambian Dalasi
• GNF Guinean Franc
• GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
• GYD Guyanaese Dollar
• HKD Hong Kong Dollar
• HNL Honduran Lempira
• HTG Haitian Gourde
• HUF Hungarian Forint
• IDR Indonesian Rupiah
• ILS Israeli New Sheqel
• INR Indian Rupee
• ISK Icelandic Króna
• JMD Jamaican Dollar
• JPY Japanese Yen
• KES Kenyan Shilling
• KGS Kyrgystani Som
• KHR Cambodian Riel
• KMF Comorian Franc
• KRW South Korean Won
• KYD Cayman Islands Dollar
• KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
• LAK Laotian Kip
• LBP Lebanese Pound
• LKR Sri Lankan Rupee
• LRD Liberian Dollar
• LSL Lesotho Loti
• MAD Moroccan Dirham
• MDL Moldovan Leu
• MGA Malagasy Ariary
• MKD Macedonian Denar
• MNT Mongolian Tugrik
• MOP Macanese Pataca
• MUR Mauritian Rupee
• MVR Maldivian Rufiyaa
• MWK Malawian Kwacha
• MXN Mexican Peso
• MYR Malaysian Ringgit
• MZN Mozambican Metical
• NAD Namibian Dollar
• NGN Nigerian Naira
• NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
• NOK Norwegian Krone
• NPR Nepalese Rupee
• NZD New Zealand Dollar
• OMR Omani Rial
• PAB Panamanian Balboa
• PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
• PGK Papua New Guinean Kina
• PHP Philippine Peso
• PKR Pakistani Rupee
• PLN Polish Zloty
• PYG Paraguayan Guarani
• QAR Qatari Rial
• RON Romanian Leu
• RSD Serbian Dinar
• RUB Russian Ruble
• RWF Rwandan Franc
• SAR Saudi Riyal
• SBD Solomon Islands Dollar
• SCR Seychellois Rupee
• SEK Swedish Krona
• SGD Singapore Dollar
• SHP Saint Helena Pound
• SLL Sierra Leonean Leone
• SOS Somali Shilling
• SRD Surinamese Dollar
• SVC Salvadoran Colón
• SZL Swazi Lilangeni
• THB Thai Baht
• TJS Tajikistani Somoni
• TOP Tongan Pa anga
• TRY Turkish Lira
• TTD Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
• TWD New Taiwan Dollar
• TZS Tanzanian Shilling
• UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
• UGX Ugandan Shilling
• USD United States Dollar
• UYU Uruguayan Peso
• UZS Uzbekistan Som
• VND Vietnamese Dong
• VUV Vanuatu Vatu
• WST Samoan Tala
• XAF CFA Franc BEAC
• XCD East Caribbean Dollar
• XOF CFA Franc BCEAO
• XPF CFP Franc
• YER Yemeni Rial
• ZAR South African Rand
• ZMW Zambian Kwacha

We've updated our app!

Download it now

UK Standard Visitor Visa for the citizens of Ukraine

If you're a Ukrainian citizen planning to visit the United Kingdom for tourism, business, or to visit family and friends, the UK Standard Visitor Visa is what you need. This complete guide will walk you through all the essential details, requirements, and procedures to get your visa successfully.

Rely on our handy online platform or the user-friendly iVisa app to get assistance from our iVisa Experts throughout the process, boosting your chances of visa approval.

Let's dive into the options for Ukrainians visiting the United Kingdom!

What is the UK Standard Visitor Visa?

The UK Standard Visitor Visa is designed for tourists traveling to the United Kingdom for tourism, business, and visiting family and friends. You must apply online and attend an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) or British Embassy in Kyiv, where you'll provide biometric information, submit your documents, and, if necessary, undergo an interview.

If all this seems overwhelming, don't worry! Count on our expert services to guide you through the application process and increase your chances of getting that visa approved.

Do Ukrainian citizens need a Standard Visitor Visa for the United Kingdom?

Yes, if you're a Ukrainian citizen, you'll need a Standard Visitor Visa to enter the United Kingdom for short stays. It allows travelers to embark on various activities in the United Kingdom: tourism, business, visiting loved ones, making stopovers, exchange programs, recreational courses, medical treatments, or volunteering .

The visa application center that processes visitor visa applications on behalf of the UK government reopened in January 2023. This means most Ukrainian passport holders can apply for this visa to visit the country.

Other UK Visas available for Ukrainian citizens

If you're a Ukrainian looking for other visas to the United Kingdom, for example, to join family members or live and work temporarily in the country, the following options are available:

• Ukraine Family Scheme: The Ukraine Family Scheme or Ukraine Extension Scheme allows applicants to join family members or extend their stay in the United Kingdom. You can live, work, study in the UK, and access public funds under this Ukraine Scheme. Apply for this visa on our simple online platform.

This scheme enables you to stay in the UK if you're a Ukrainian family member of a British citizen, a person with permission to settle or EU-settled or pre-settled status, or a refugee in the United Kingdom.

• Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine): If you don't have family in the UK and want to live and work for up to three years, you can apply for the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme via the UK government website .

If your visa application is approved, you must travel to the VAC in Warsaw with a valid international passport to pick up your visa vignette to enter the country. Once you enter the UK, you'll get a biometric residence permit.

Benefits of a UK Standard Visitor Visa for Ukrainian citizens

The UK Standard Visitor Visa opens up many exciting opportunities for Ukrainian nationals in the UK! Here are some travel purposes this visa covers:

Tourism and leisure: Experience the country's rich history, culture, and tourist attractions.

Business opportunities: Attend business meetings and conferences or explore potential business ventures in the UK.

Family and friends visits: Visit family members or friends residing in the UK, enjoying quality time together for a short period of time.

Enroll in short courses: Enjoy a school exchange program or enroll in a course of up to 30 days, for example, a dance course or to study the English language.

Seek healthcare: Use the extensive medical care facilities available in the UK.

Volunteer work: Do volunteer activities for up to 30 days with a registered charity.

Transit in the UK: Transit at UK airports without the need for additional transit visas.

Remember, you can't work or take long courses in the UK with a Standard Visitor Visa.

Benefits of applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa with us

We offer some great perks if you choose to apply for the UK Standard Visitor Visa with us:

Best chances of visa approval – Our experts will help you submit a flawless application, boosting your chances of getting your visa approved.

Flexible form completion – No rush! Complete the visa application form at your own pace and take breaks whenever necessary.

Guaranteed appointment scheduling – We'll get that visa appointment sorted without hassle.

Expert agent support – If you have any questions or worries during the application process, our team of iVisa Experts is here to help you.

Real-time order tracking – Easily keep track of your visa application through your iVisa account and stay updated at all times.

UK Visa requirements for Ukrainian citizens

The UK government requires some documents to prove your travel purpose and eligibility. When applying through us, we'll send you a tailored document list with everything you must bring to the visa appointment.

In the next sections, you'll find more info on the documents you need to prove your eligibility.

UK Visitor Visa: Eligibility criteria for Ukrainian citizens

As a Ukrainian citizen, you're eligible for the UK Standard Visitor Visa, but there are some additional requirements you must meet:

Intention to leave the UK: You must show that you plan to leave the UK at the end of your visit.

Financial capability: Prove that you can support yourself and anyone else you're responsible for during your trip. If someone else is funding your journey, you must provide evidence of their financial support.

Return or onward journey: Show that you can pay for your return or onward trip from the UK.

Short-term stay: Your visit should be short-term, and you can't live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits.

UK Standard Visitor Visa: Required documents for citizens from Ukraine

Valid passport – Your valid Ukrainian international passport must have at least six months of validity left beyond your intended stay. Please note that applying with an expired Ukrainian international passport or refugee passport is impossible.

Completed visa application form , which you'll get during the online process.

Proof of finances – There's no specific amount, but you must indicate how much your trip will cost and provide bank statements and financial documents proving you can cover the expenses.

Proof of residence (if applicable) – It could be a green card, a residence permit, or a visa sticker in your passport of the country you're residing in if you aren't applying from Ukraine.

Travel itinerary – A detailed plan of your trip, including the purpose, travel dates, and planned activities in the United Kingdom.

Accommodation details – Show proof of your accommodation arrangements in the UK, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.

Proof of employment (if applicable) – For employed applicants, a letter from their employer stating their position, salary, and approved leave for the travel period.

Details of any criminal, civil, or immigration offenses you may have committed.

Remember, you might need additional documents depending on your situation.

How long can Ukrainian citizens stay in the UK with the Standard Visitor Visa?

As a Ukrainian citizen, the UK Visitor Visa lets you stay in the United Kingdom for up to 180 days in Total per visit . This visa allows multiple entries and is valid for 180 days after issued .

However, the immigration officer will determine the actual duration of your stay based on your visit purpose and individual situation. For example, if you're seeking medical treatment, you may be allowed to stay in the country for up to 11 months.

Costs and processing times for the UK Standard Visitor Visa in Ukraine

When applying for the UK Standard Visitor Visa with our assistance, the total cost for citizens of Ukraine is USD $336.99 . This includes our service fee of USD $209.99 and the government fee of USD $127.00 .

However, please note that these costs may change over time. For the latest fees, start the application process .

The processing time involves two stages:

iVisa processing time: This stage takes approximately 30 days , during which you'll complete your form, have it reviewed by our iVisa Experts, and we'll schedule a visa appointment in Kyiv.

Government processing time: After the visa appointment, the government usually takes 1 to 3 weeks to process your visa application.

How to apply for the UK Standard Visitor Visa in Ukraine?

Applying for the United Kingdom Standard Visitor Visa with our assistance is a breeze and involves three simple steps:

Step 1: Provide your travel and basic contact details on our website or iVisa App . Double-check the details to avoid errors and pay the visa fees.

Step 2: Complete the UK visa application form and upload the required documents. Our iVisa Experts will review your application and schedule a visa appointment.

Step 3: Attend the visa appointment at the UK Visa Application Center (VAC) or UK Embassy to provide biometric data and undergo the interview. We'll help you find the nearest location, prepare for the interview, and provide tips for a successful appointment.

After your interview, the United Kingdom immigration authorities will need your passport to issue the approved UK Visitor Visa.

Tips for a successful UK Standard Visitor Visa application in Ukraine

Follow these tips to improve your chances of success:

Complete and accurate information: Be careful while completing the visa form to ensure you provide all required information accurately and truthfully.

Supporting documents: Submit all relevant documents to prove your trip's purpose and financial sufficiency.

Travel itinerary: Present a comprehensive travel itinerary outlining the planned activities during your stay in the United Kingdom. Review everything before the interview to explain it confidently to the visa officer.

Ties to Ukraine: Highlight ties to Ukraine, such as family, employment, or property, to demonstrate your intention to return after the visit.

Seek professional guidance: Rely on our iVisa Experts' assistance to ensure all aspects of the application are properly addressed and increase your chances of visa approval.

Common reasons for UK Standard Visitor Visa refusals in Ukraine

Insufficient financial proof: Failure to provide satisfactory evidence of sufficient funds to support your visit.

Lack of genuine intentions: Not convincingly demonstrating the genuine purpose of the visit.

Previous visa violations: A history of violating visa rules or overstaying in any country may negatively impact the UK Visitor Visa application.

Criminal record: If you have a criminal record or previous convictions, you may face visa refusal, especially if your past offenses are severe or raise security concerns.

Where can I find more information about the UK Visitor Visa?

Do you have more questions or concerns regarding the Standard Visitor Visa or other UK visas and immigration details? Contact us via online chat or [email protected] . We're always available to help.

Related Articles

My experience of London Gatwick Airport: What to expect on arrival

UK Work Visa: Eligibility, Types, and How to Apply

UK ETA for US citizens

• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration

• International

February 24, 2022 Russia-Ukraine news

By Aditi Sangal , Meg Wagner , Adrienne Vogt , Melissa Macaya, Rob Picheta, Lauren Said-Moorhouse , Ed Upright, Maureen Chowdhury and Fernando Alfonso III , CNN

UK government announces visa concessions for Ukrainian citizens in country

From CNN’s Lauren Kent

British Home Secretary Priti Patel announced visa concessions for Ukrainian citizens in the UK on Thursday. 

“We stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine amid this unprovoked and antidemocratic act of Russian aggression," Patel said in a statement released by her ministry.

“I have immediately ordered changes to our visa policy to provide certainty to our Ukrainian friends and colleagues living, working and studying in the UK,” she added.

According to the statement, changes announced for Ukrainian nationals in the UK include: 

• Ukrainian nationals on an existing points-based system route 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.
• 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 Dec. 31.
• Ukrainian nationals in temporary HGV/pork butcher jobs will have their leave in the UK extended to Dec. 31 and will also be allowed to apply to the skilled worker route.

These concessions are available for people with valid visas in the UK.

All visa routes remain under constant review and any changes to the visa policy will not compromise border security.

OSCE will temporarily evacuate all its staff from Ukraine

From CNN’s Martin Goillandeau in London

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe said it would “temporarily evacuate” all its international mission members from Ukraine as soon as possible, according to  statement  from Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid published Thursday.

Schmid said the decision to withdraw OSCE staff from Ukraine was “due to the ongoing fighting and deteriorated security situation” in the country and “will be conducted as early as possible and feasible dependent on the relevant factors on the ground.”

A spokesperson for the secretariat confirmed to CNN that members of the Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) would be among the evacuees.

“The commitment and bravery of the OSCE staff is commendable. The OSCE promptly established the Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) in 2014 and the dedicated men and women of this mission have been our impartial eyes and ears on the ground throughout the country,” Schmid’s statement read. 

“We have a legacy to be proud of in the country. We look forward to resuming our missions when circumstances permit,” it added.

The secretary general said the decision “was not taken lightly and the relocation is meant to be temporary.” 

“The safety of the dedicated women and men who serve as impartial eyes and ears of the international community on the ground throughout the country is imperative,” her statement concluded.

Hundreds of people detained in anti-war protests around Russia, according to independent monitors

From CNN's Nathan Hodge in Moscow

As of Thursday evening Moscow time, at least 850 people have already been detained in at least 44 cities across Russia, independent monitoring group OVD-Info reported . 

Russia bars demonstrations without a permit, but Russians may stage individual, single-person protests.

Authorities on Thursday warned citizens that participating in anti-war protests could lead to prosecution and criminal charges.

Watch Nic Robertson's report from the scene of some arrests:

UK PM announces further sanctions in an effort to "squeeze Russia from the global economy, piece by piece"

From CNN's Niamh Kennedy in London

The United Kingdom is set to sanction 100 people and entities as part of further sanctions against Russia, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Thursday afternoon.

In a speech to the UK parliament, the prime minister said the UK is announcing the "largest and most severe package of sanctions that Russia has ever seen."  

An asset freeze will be imposed on Russian state bank VTB, Johnson said, following the sanctioning of five Russian banks on Tuesday.

Russian state and private companies will also be prevented from "raising funds in the UK, banning dealing with their securities and making loans to them."

A hundred people and entities will have their assets frozen, Johnson said, adding that this includes "all the major manufacturers that support Putin's war machine."

"Sanctions will also be applied to Belarus for its role in the assault on Ukraine," Johnson added.

As far as international finance is concerned, Johnson said "nothing is off the table" when it comes to shutting off Russia’s access to SWIFT, the high-security payment network .

The UK is also hoping to bring in legislation "early next week" to ban the export of all dual use items to Russia, Johnson said, including a "range of high end and critical technological equipment and components in sectors including electronics, telecommunications, and aerospace."

Johnson stressed that these sanctions will "constrain Russia's military, industrial and technological capabilities for years to come."

The UK will also ban Russia's national carrier, Aeroflot, and bring forward measures on unexplained wealth orders from the Common Crime Bill, Johnson said.

A new dedicated kleptocracy cell in the UK's National Crime Agency will be established "to target sanctions, evasion and corrupt Russian assets hidden in the UK," Johnson continued.

"We will continue on a remorseless mission to squeeze Russia from the global economy, piece by piece, day by day and week by week," Johnson told lawmakers. 

The UK will carry out a "steadfast mission" to ensure that Putin's "squalid adventure" fails, Johnson stressed. 

Johnson said it is now clear that the Russian president was "always determined to attack his neighbor no matter what we did." 

"Now we see him for what he is, a blood-stained aggressor," Johnson remarked. 

Trains carrying vulnerable children evacuated from eastern Ukraine will arrive in Lviv on Friday

From Sofiya Harbuziuk

Trains carrying vulnerable children evacuated from eastern Ukraine will arrive in the Lviv region on Friday, a spokesperson for the Lviv State Regional Administration told CNN.

A train from the Luhansk oblast region will carry 41 children age 4 and under, many of them orphans.

Another train is on its way from Donetsk oblast carrying 106 children, and a third is carrying 18 children with disabilities and special needs from Lysychansk in the Luhansk oblast.

Biden: US and G7 leaders agreed to move forward on "devastating" sanctions against Russia

From CNN's Kevin Liptak

In a Twitter message, US President Joe Biden says he agreed with fellow G7 leaders "to move forward on devastating packages of sanctions and other economic measures to hold Russia to account."

"We stand with the brave people of Ukraine," he added .

Biden met with the leaders earlier today and is set to speak at 1:30 p.m. ET from the White House on the situation unfolding in Ukraine.

He attached a photo from the Situation Room of the meeting.

See the President's tweet:

Russian riot police tell protesters to disperse in Moscow

From CNN's Anna Chernova and Nic Robertson

Russian riot police are urging protesters to leave Pushkinskaya Square in Moscow, saying over loudspeakers that the “[protest] action is unauthorized.”

CNN’s Nic Robertson and team on the ground have witnessed people being detained by police. Some are carrying signs with messages, including multiple signs saying “no to war.” 

Russian authorities on Thursday warned citizens that participating in anti-war protests could lead to prosecution and criminal charges.

Ukrainian ambassador to US: All Ukrainians will fight to protect their homes

From CNN's Phil Mattingly

Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States Oksana Markarova said Thursday that “all Ukrainians” will fight to protect their country in the face of a Russian invasion.

“The combat spirit of Ukrainian military is high,” Markarova said at a press conference in Washington, DC.

Markarova expressed thanks to US President Joe Biden “for the immediate statement which came minutes after (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s decision to go on this offensive,” as well as other allies “who issued statements in support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

“We value all the support. We hear all the support. It's very important for us,” she said. “But it's also time to act. And we call on the international community to act immediately.”

Asked by CNN whether she believed Russian President Vladimir Putin would have been deterred if the US had imposed stronger sanctions earlier, Markarova said, “we are where we are ... so let's focus on the sanctions that the United States and other countries will impose right now.”

“This is what matters,” she said. “The actual deeds that we all together will do now is what matters.”

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.

• What is community organising?
• Our history
• News and stories
• Our podcast
• Our projects
• Jobs and opportunities
• Board of Trustees

Community Leadership Training

• Three-day (Online)
• Six-day (Residential)
• Learning Thursdays (Online)
• Community Organising in Schools and Colleges
• Higher Education: Power/Knowledge Exchange
• Organising Together across Difference

Our Chapters

• Brighton & Hove
• Cymru Wales
• Greater Manchester
• East London (TELCO)
• North London
• South London
• West London
• Leicester and Leicestershire
• Peterborough
• Thames Valley
• Tyne and Wear

• Living Wage Foundation
• Parent Action (formerly PACT)
• Sponsor Refugees
• Welcoming refugees and a fair pathway to citizenship
• Voter registration champions
• Citizens Agenda
• Climate Justice

Communities For Ukraine

• Homelessness
• Living Wage For Social Care
• Make London a Living Wage City
• Make Misogyny a Hate Crime
• Migrant communities: a pathway to citizenship
• School-Based Counselling
• The Living Wage Campaign

• Join us as a charity
• Join us as a faith or religious institution
• Join us as a higher education institution
• Join us as a school
• Join us as a union

• Reclaim the Metro!
• Toilet Triumph!
• Sink or swim
• Living Wage takes off!
• Millions for mental health
• The Chicken Run
• Benefits of working at Citizens UK
• Ruth [and] the Giant
• From classroom to boardroom: Young citizens lead the way
• 'Your Actions have shamed us today!'
• Leadership and Organising for Social Change: Addressing the Needs of Victims of Sexual Assault and Sexual Violence
• Who is affected by low pay in London?
• Marking the legacy of Neil Jameson, Citizens UK’s Founder
• 2021 Annual Report
• Driving anti-racist education through student leadership
• What is a Citizens UK Accountability Assembly?
• St Mary's CE Primary School: Training for Lewisham Council
• Hendon School Youth-led Community Engagement and the Mental Health Campaign: Stamp Out Stigma
• Educating Young Citizens through a habit of action
• Community Organising through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching - St Davids Catholic Sixth Form College
• Meet Anna and Sam: building community in Barking Riverside
• DMAT students partner with Citizens UK to inspire communities
• Customers want hospitality venues to pay workers a real Living Wage, new data reveals
• Just transition to an equal, clean, green London.
• Climate Leadership Academy
• Steering Group
• Hospitality
• Health and social care
• Creative and cultural
• Service provision
• Settle Our Status
• No Recourse to Public Funds
• Children into Citizens
• Parent Action
• School and College-Based Counselling
• The Living Wage campaign
• Refugee Welcome Schools
• Birmingham news
• Brighton & Hove news
• Cymru Wales news
• Greater Manchester News
• Bradford Citizens
• London Citizens news
• Barking and Dagenham News
• Hackney and City
• North London News
• Lewisham and Greenwich Citizens
• Lewisham Headteachers Declare a Housing Emergency
• Merton Citizens
• Building Better Futures
• South London Listens
• Local pre-election Assemblies: 'Citizen is the most important title'
• Leicester & Leicestershire News
• Nottingham News
• Peterborough news
• Preston news
• Somerset news
• Thames Valley News
• Thames Valley Citizens Campaigns
• Tyne & Wear News
• Join us as a faith and religious community
• Join us as a Higher Education institution
• Join us as a school community
• Leader's Area Login
• Learning Thursdays
• Three-day Community Leadership Training (Online)
• Six-Day Community Leadership Training (Residential)
• Power/Knowledge Exchange

Communities for Ukraine is a refugee sponsorship programme created in March 2022, in response to the humanitarian situation caused by the war in Ukraine. We are made up of everyday people and organisations working together to help Ukrainians rebuild their lives by finding safe homes and secure jobs in the UK. You can support as an individual host or as a 'resettlement partner' - which include faith groups, community groups, employers, universities and more.

Communities For Ukraine is a collaboration between Citizens UK's Sponsor Refugees project, and Ukrainian Sponsorship Pathway UK (USPUK), which have both been awarded ‘Recognised Provider’ status by the UK Government to match refugees with host sponsors under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

Our end-to-end process gives dignity and agency to refugees from the time they consider coming to the UK, through to their arrival, resettlement in a new home and integration with the community. Working together, we can provide a safe, supported and sustainable process for Ukrainian refugees to flourish in the UK.

The scale of the crisis is enormous, but together we can make a difference. We’ll be doing our bit by seeking to resettle as many Ukrainian refugees as possible through our networks. Matthew Bolton, Executive Director, Citizens UK.

We couldn't believe it when the war started. We knew our area would be one of the first to be affected. We realised that there are so many Ukrainian people in Poland that there was not going to be any opportunity to work and we were not going to be able to progress. We decided to apply to go to another country. I'm so full of emotions. But most of all, I'm extremely happy to be here. [Our host] seems very kind and the children are pleased to be in Britain. Husband and wife Vladyslav and Iryna, two of the first Ukrainian refugees resettled through the Communities for Ukraine scheme.

So far, we have made almost a thousand matches, with more being made every day. However, we urgently need more hosts. The war in Ukraine continues and indiscriminate Russian missile attacks mean civilians are still losing their lives, homes, and loved ones daily. Therefore, thousands of Ukrainians are still seeking sanctuary in the UK. We need more hosts to support these people in need.

Our search for UK hosts will continue as long as the threat to Ukrainian civilians continues. As a result, many Ukrainian men, women, and children will find a place of sanctuary in the UK.

How you can support

Information for UK-based individuals and families:

Communities for Ukraine has been awarded ‘Recognised Provider’ status by the UK government. Therefore, we can match UK hosts with Ukrainians looking to come to the UK as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme. USPUK has teams on the ground in centres for displaced people in Warsaw, Poland, and in Lviv, Ukraine. We are in touch with thousands of people who have lost their homes and face an uncertain future. If you are an individual or family who wishes to host, please register.

Information for Businesses

We have a pioneering pathway in the UK that uses the flexibility of the Homes for Ukraine scheme to enable an 'Employment-First Approach'. We are actively seeking new organisations to explore this innovative approach with us to help scale, build, and innovate together. Institutions such as businesses and universities will be able to sign up to the approach by providing accommodation and jobs to Ukrainian refugees, who will be matched with employers in line with their skills and interests. Through this, the family of the person in employment is also able to join them in the UK.

If you are an employer who can offer work and/or accommodation, meeting the high standards and ethical safeguards asked of Resettlement Partners, please get in touch by emailing [email protected]

Resettlement Partners are businesses or civil society organisations like faith groups, schools and universities. Supported by USPUK and Citizens UK, they coordinate their host network, with each partner committing to find host sponsors within their networks to accommodate at least 50 Ukrainian refugees. They allocate staff time to check the suitability of host sponsors, promote high quality matches, ensure a robust approach to safeguarding, and support hosts and refugees with the challenges they may face when they arrive. To ensure resettlement partners feel confident and prepared, Citizens UK provides you with training, policies and processes for local host sponsors. We ensure the learning and experience from resettling refugees through our Sponsor Refugees project is passed on to those who have offered to host Ukrainians. We're actively looking for new Resettlement Partners. If your organisation could commit to finding host sponsors from your network capable of resettling a minimum of 50 refugees over the next six months, have some staff capacity to deploy to support your participation, and are willing to uphold the high standards of the Communities for Ukraine programme – we'd love to hear from you!

Process Phases

• Pre-Application phase: USPUK supports Ukrainians to understand the opportunity to resettle in the UK;
• Application phase: USPUK refers Ukrainians to apply through Citizens UK’s ‘Gateway to the UK’ portal;
• Provisional matching phase: Citizens UK and its resettlement partner organisations find a likely host sponsor for the Ukrainian applicant;
• Match confirmation and visa phase: Host sponsor and applicant confirm the match, and apply for visa supported by the resettlement partner, USPUK and Citizens UK;
• Travel phase: Citizens UK and USPUK help the refugee to book free tickets via Wizz Air from anywhere in Europe.
• The process can take between two and six weeks, or longer in busier moments. It is one of the safest routes to the UK for refugee families due to the number of checks along the way.

What support does Citizens UK provide?

• Outreach and language support to Ukrainians in need, in Poland and wherever they are displaced;
• A process to recruit, vet and train host sponsors at scale and to a high standard through a trusted civil society organisation;
• A matching service with translation support to link refugees and hosts;
• Support in applying for visas;
• Free flights with Wizz Air (courtesy of funding from The Shapiro Foundation).  

What is expected of a Resettlement Partner?

• Commitment to resettle 50 refugees under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme through local sponsors in your area;
• Provide a single-point-of-contact Co-ordinator from your staff who can co-ordinate local sponsors, receive training, and cascade training to local sponsors, and ensure high standards of safeguarding and welcome are maintained;
• Support the local Sponsors you are working with to overcome barriers to success;
• Work collaboratively with Citizens UK and our partners to ensure success of the Scheme and the best experience for refugees and local sponsors - in the first six months and beyond;
• Ensure the high standards we set are present at every level of the Scheme, especially the Local Sponsors you are co-ordinating.

Our Current Resettlement Partners

Baptists Together

Barnet Citizens

Diocese of Chelmsford

Diocese of Coventry

Diocese of Durham

Diocese of Exeter & Plymouth

Diocese of Guildford

Diocese of Hereford

Diocese of Leicester

Diocese of Llandaff

Diocese of London

Diocese of Oxford

Diocese of Portsmouth

Diocese of Rochester

Diocese of Southwell & Nottingham

Diocese of St Alban's

Father Hudson’s Care

Hong Kong Link Up

King's College London

LiFE Multi-Academy Trust

Open University

Peterborough Cathedral

Roman Catholic Diocese of Hexham & Newcastle

The Methodist Church

The Salvation Army

UK Welcomes Ukraine

University of Birmingham

University of Cambridge

University of Newcastle

We were very pleased to become a Resettlement Partner with Citizens UK’s Communities for Ukraine programme, which has given organisations like ours the confidence to mobilise our networks to open up their homes, safe in the knowledge that every refugee that arrives will be supported to high standards. Andy Quinn, Chief Executive of Father Hudson’s Care, a resettlement partner of Citizens UK

Ukrainians wishing to come to the UK should contact our referral partner, USPUK.

USPUK is a registered charity based in London, set up by a team of lawyers, entrepreneurs, journalists, technology, recruitment, and finance experts who want to help Ukrainians displaced by the war, employs Ukrainian staff in Poland to support refugees to explore resettling to the UK, through in-person activity at refugee centres in Warsaw and Krakow, and through an online service available to Ukrainians anywhere in Eastern Europe.

USPUK refers Ukrainians to Citizens UK’s ‘Gateway to the UK’ online portal through which they can request to be resettled in the UK. Once a match is found, USPUK supports the Ukrainian refugee to apply for a visa and make travel arrangements.

Together, we have the power to make the UK a safe and more welcoming place for refugees. Your donations allow us to find safe homes for more families like Vladyslav and Iryna's, such as by funding flights to the UK. Any support you can give is greatly appreciated.

Advertisement

Supported by

Ukraine Is Denying Consular Services to Men Outside the Country

New guidance carries a clear message to men abroad who may be avoiding the draft: You don’t get the benefit of state services if you don’t join the fight.

• Share full article

By Maria Varenikova

Reported from Kyiv

Ukrainian officials have taken several steps in recent weeks to swell the ranks of an army depleted by more than two years of grueling combat. The government passed a new mobilization bill aimed at increasing troop numbers and has stepped up border patrols to catch draft dodgers.

Now, officials are targeting men who have already left the country. This week the government announced that Ukrainian embassies had suspended issuing new passports and providing other consular services for military-age men living abroad.

Men between the ages of 18 and 60 were prohibited from leaving the country after the start of Russia’s invasion in 2022, but some were abroad before the rule took effect and others have left illegally since then.

By suspending consular services, the government said, it was responding to demands for fairness in society.

The new rules will remain in place until a new mobilization law takes effect on May 18. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said that it was still working out the details about what services would be provided after the broader mobilization law went into effect, but its message was clear: If you are healthy and can fight, come home and join the military.

“How it looks like now: A man of conscription age went abroad, showing his state that he does not care about its survival, and then comes and wants to receive services from this state,” Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, said in a statement. “It does not work this way. Our country is at war.”

Critics have said the move could end up sowing divisions between Ukrainians at home and those abroad while not having a real impact on the drive for more soldiers. There are about 860,000 Ukrainian men now living outside the country, in the European Union.

The drive to bring men back to Ukraine is part of a broader effort to enlist new soldiers urgently as Russia seeks to exploit its advantage in arms and numbers across the eastern front. In certain areas, Russians outnumber Ukrainians by more than seven to one, Gen. Yurii Sodol, the commander of forces in the east, told the Ukrainian news media last month.

As American officials pressed lawmakers in Washington to deliver more military aid for Ukraine, they also pressed the government in Kyiv to address problems with its draft.

James O’Brien, the assistant U.S. secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, noted on a visit to Kyiv this week that the country’s mobilization efforts were every bit as critical to stabilizing the front and turning the tide of war as artillery.

“Ukraine needs to make sure it has the people necessary to fight,” he said at a news conference.

The lack of clarity about how the policy would be carried out added to the heated debate inside Ukraine about the measure.

Many soldiers on the front, including tens of thousands who have been fighting with little rest for more than two years, see the rule as a just and fair move.

“This decision is long overdue,” Alina Mykhailova, a military medic and widow of a commander killed in combat, wrote on Facebook, describing it as the restoration of some “small percentage” of justice for Ukrainian servicemen.

“You don’t like it? Give up your citizenship and go to hell,” she wrote, in comments that reflect growing anger among Ukrainian soldiers and military families at men who have avoided fighting.

However, Volodymyr Viatrovych, former head of Ukraine’s National Memory Institute, warned that the move could create resentment from Ukrainians living abroad.

“This decision will bring nothing but damage,” he wrote on Facebook, arguing that it would not force more people to join the army but only “weaken national unity.”

A majority of Ukrainians living abroad, he wrote, will not abandon their jobs, studies, wives and children “to take a one-way trip right now.”

There is particular concern about teenage boys whose parents took them abroad for their safety when the war broke out and who have since turned 18. Under the new law, they may have to return to Ukraine to get their passports, and then they may not be able to leave.

“There has to be some improvement, the creation of some possibility to get registered with the army at the consulate,” Tetyana Senenko, a Ukrainian living in Georgia, said on social media.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it would provide further clarification on the procedure for obtaining consular services, to avoid leaving hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian men abroad in a state of limbo.

Serhiy Fursa, deputy director of the investment company Dragon Capital in Kyiv, said on Facebook that Ukraine should be more wary of alienating men who could be useful to the economy if not to the military: “Yes, these men are needed in Ukraine. And yes, they chose not to be in Ukraine during the war. Ukraine needs all its citizens. And not all citizens of Ukraine are heroes.”

Maria Varenikova covers Ukraine and its war with Russia. More about Maria Varenikova

New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

Ukraine-Russia war latest: At least four dead in daytime missile strike on port city - as massive building on fire

It is likely to be a "very difficult summer" for Ukrainian forces in the face of increased Russian attacks, military analyst Sean Bell says. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Monday 29 April 2024 22:48, UK

• At least four killed in daytime missile attack on Odesa
• Watch: Massive building in flames after attack
• Ukraine in for 'difficult summer' as Russia preparing 'major offensive'
• North Korea expresses 'concern' over US sending long-range missiles to Ukraine
• Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
• Big picture : What you need to know as a new week begins
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

As we reported a short time ago, the Duchess of Edinburgh has met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, in what marks the first visit to the country by a member of the Royal Family since the war begin.

Sophie met the Ukrainian president and first lady Olena Zelenska and delivered a message to them on behalf of the King, Buckingham Palace said.

You can watch footage from her trip here...

Throughout the day, we've been reporting on a Russian attack on the city of Odesa in Ukraine, which has killed at least four people. 

These images show a burning educational institution building, which was struck. 

Airline Finnair has said it is pausing flights to Tartu in eastern Estonia for the next month, due to GPS disturbances in the area.

"Finnair will suspend its daily flights to Tartu, Estonia, from 29 April to 31 May, so that an alternative approach solution that does not require a GPS signal can be put in place at Tartu Airport," the Finnish airline said in a statement.

Finnair last week had to divert two flights back to Helsinki after GPS interference prevented the approach to Tartu airport, although a spokesperson said the company did not now where the interference came from.

However, Tallinn seems certain as where the issues are originating. 

"It is a fact that Russia affects GPS devices in our region’s airspace," Estonia's foreign minister said via a spokesperson.

Margus Tsahkna added that Estonia will raise the issue of GPS interference with its neighbours, and intends to discuss it with the EU and NATO. 

GPS jamming and spoofing have grown worse in eastern Europe, the Black Sea and the Middle East, all areas close to conflict zones, according to industry group OpsGroup. 

More than 30 Ukrainian conscripts have died while trying to cross the border illegally to avoid mobilisation, a Ukrainian official has said.

Andriy Demchenko, spokesman for the State Border Guard Service,  told Ukrinform that some men are prepared to pay "large sums" of money to groups promising to smuggle them across the border safely.

"Then they are faced with the fact that the route runs along a mountain river," he said.

Many conscripts have lost their lives after realising they didn't have the strength to swim the river, Mr Demchenko added.

"In total, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, about 30 people have died trying to cross the border illegally," he said.

Such attempts occur "every day", he said.

For context: Ukraine has been under martial law since the Russian invasion in February 2022.

It lets draft officers call up men of a certain age to fight on the front line.

In April, Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed off a new law lowering the age of draft-eligible men from 27 to 25, in a bid to boost troop numbers in his depleted ranks.

The Duchess of Edinburgh has met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, in what marks the first visit to the country by a member of the Royal Family since the war begin.

Her visit is aimed at demonstrating "solidarity with the women, men and children impacted by the war and in a continuation of her work to champion survivors of conflict-related sexual violence", the palace said.

Three women and a man have died after a Russian attack on Odesa.

A further 28 people have been injured, including two children aged five and 16. A pregnant woman has also been hurt.

This video shows the aftermath of the attack. 

Debris recovered from a missile that landed in the Ukrainian region of Kharkiv on 2 January was North Korean, the Reuters news agency is reporting.

Citing a United Nations sanctions monitor, Reuters said debris recovered was from a Hwasong-11 series ballistic missile - made in North Korea.

Three sanctions monitors travelled to Ukraine earlier this month to inspect the debris - and found no evidence that the missile was made by Russia. 

They "could not independently identify from where the missile was launched, nor by whom". 

"Information on the trajectory provided by Ukrainian authorities indicates it was launched within the territory of the Russian Federation," they wrote in an April 25 report to the UN Security Council's North Korea sanctions committee. 

"Such a location, if the missile was under control of Russian forces, would probably indicate procurement by nationals of the Russian Federation," they said, adding that this would be a violation of the arms embargo imposed on North Korea in 2006. 

International leaders have long accused North Korea of supplying Russia with weapons.

Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied the accusations, but vowed last year to deepen military relations. 

The situation in Odesa is fast-moving after the city in southern Ukraine came under Russian missile attack this afternoon.

Three women and a man have died, bringing the total number of people killed to four, according to regional governor Oleg Kiper.

He said a further 28 people have been injured, including two children aged five and 16. A pregnant woman has also been hurt.

Four people are "fighting for their lives," he said in a Telegram post .

A big building housing part of the Odessa Law Academy is ablaze after the strike...

The number of people injured in Russia's missile attack on Odesa has increased.

Regional governor Oleg Kiper said he was aware of 17 injured people, of whom at least two are in a "serious condition". Separately, Odesa mayor Gennadiy Trukhanov said at least 20 people were hurt.

Emergency services continue to work at the scene, Mr Kiper said. Earlier, he reported that at least two people had been killed in the attack (see 17.46 post).

The Odesa region has been repeatedly targeted by Russia during the war.

Last month, a Russian ballistic missile attack on a residential area killed at least 20 people and wounded more than 70.

Ukrainian troops are still defending their positions on the frontline while grappling with depleted weapons supplies and increased Russian attacks.

Western support is on full display in the pictures below, with soldiers of the Ukrainian army's 25th separate airborne brigade operating a German-made Marder infantry fighting vehicle.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• International
• Foreign affairs

The Duchess of Edinburgh becomes first Royal to visit Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion

The Duchess of Edinburgh is the first Royal to visit Ukraine today since the start of the war, to show her solidarity with men, women and children affected by the Russian invasion

• Her Royal Highness met with survivors of sexual violence, and female IDPs and volunteers who help their communities cope with the trauma of the invasion
• Two years on from Bucha’s liberation, The Duchess of Edinburgh also paid her respects to those who lost their lives during Russia’s occupation.

Today, [Monday 29th April] The Duchess of Edinburgh becomes the first member of the Royal family to visit Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion, to show her solidarity with survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and torture, and as part of her work as a champion of the UK’s Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative and the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

While in Ukraine, The Duchess of Edinburgh met with survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and survivors of torture who bravely shared their stories, and with children who have now been safely returned to Ukraine, after being forcibly separated from their families and deported by Russia as part of a sustained campaign to erase Ukrainian culture.

Her Royal Highness also met with President Zelensky and First Lady Zelenska to discuss how best to support survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and the women peacebuilders who have a vital part to play in ensuring Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction is effective and long-lasting.

Addressing the CRSV Conference last month, Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh said:

Survivors here and around the world have spoken out so bravely about their experiences. They are the most powerful advocates who remind us all that we must not turn our backs on the horrors of this crime, we must never forget survivors. Rather, we must stand shoulder to shoulder with all survivors to secure justice and holistic redress, and ensure that this crime isn’t an accepted part of conflict. Their rights and their voices must be at the heart of all our efforts to consign conflict-related sexual violence to the history books.

During the visit, The Duchess of Edinburgh paid her respects to those who lost their lives in Bucha, two years on from its liberation from Russian forces, and visited the ‘Road to Life’, a bridge which became a key part of the Ukrainian resistance when it was blown up to stop Russian troops proceeding to Kyiv, and later became a vital route for people to flee to safety from the Russian occupation.

Her Royal Highness also demonstrated her support for Ukrainian women who have played important roles in the conflict and community recovery, in a meeting with female volunteers who help their communities cope with the aftermath of the attacks with mental health care activities for children.

Since 2022, the UK has pledged over £4.7 billion in non-military support to Ukraine. This includes over £660 million of bilateral assistance that prioritises the needs of women and girls, for example by funding vital services for survivors of Gender Based Violence, as well as working with the Office of the Prosecutor General to put survivors at the centre of approaches to prosecuting conflict-related sexual violence crimes.

The UK is working with international partners to hold those responsible for atrocities to account. In addition to providing financial and technical assistance to the International Criminal Court, we have deployed specialist UK war crimes and conflict-related sexual violence experts to the region, and created an expert Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group with the EU and US.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

• Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
• Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.