Ukraine Family Scheme application process to be simplified

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Home Office has announced that it will simplify its application process for the Ukraine Family Scheme.

Key Points:

• Under a change that took effect March 15, the application process for the Ukraine Family Scheme is fully online. Ukrainian nationals who are not in the U.K. and hold a valid passport will no longer be required to provide biometric information when applying for the scheme.
• To apply for the Ukraine Family Scheme, Ukrainian nationals will have to complete an online application but will no longer need to have an in-person appointment at a visa application center (VAC).
• Ukrainian nationals must have a valid email address to submit an application. U.K. immigration authorities will contact applicants by email with further travel guidance after the application is processed.

Additional Information: Ukrainian nationals who are applying for the Ukraine Family Scheme before March 15 must submit an online application an book an in-person appointment at a VAC More information regarding the Ukraine Family Scheme is available here.

BAL Analysis: Ukrainian nationals will be able to receive entry permissions entirely online for the Ukraine Family Scheme after March 15. This is welcome news as it will reduce processing times for those needing to enter the U.K. under the Ukraine Family Scheme. Employers and employees are reminded that actions taken as a result of the invasion of Ukraine may change with little or no notice.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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