Ukrainians can once again bring their children to the UK after the government reversed visa rule changes that had left many families separated, reported BBC. Last February, the government restricted eligibility under the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme, barring Ukrainians without permanent UK residency from sponsoring family members. The change, implemented without notice, forced some parents to resort to illegal routes to reunite with their children.
Charities have welcomed the reversal as a “huge relief” but warned that it does not extend to other family members, such as siblings or elderly parents.
More than 190,000 people have arrived in the UK under the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme since its launch in March 2022 following Russia’s invasion. However, policy changes under the Conservatives last year meant only British or Irish citizens, or those with permanent residency, could act as sponsors, leaving many Ukrainians unable to bring their loved ones. The ‘Ukraine Family Scheme’, which previously allowed Ukrainians to join family members with UK residency, was also closed.
Under the new rules, parents or legal guardians holding any Ukraine-related visa can now sponsor their children under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
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