Grant automatic visa extension and ILR for Ukrainians after 5 years
Since Feb 2025, Ukrainians and their eligible family members in the UK have been able to apply for further permission to remain for up to 18 months. We would like the extensions to be automatic and for the Government to set out a path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for Ukrainians.
Signatures
13,713
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 10,000/10,000 · reached
Debate threshold (100,000) · 13,713/100,000
- 17 AUG 2025Petition closedFinal total: 13,713 signatures
- 12 MAR 2025Government respondedHome OfficeGovernment reply
We recognise the Ukrainian government’s desire for the return of their citizens to help rebuild Ukraine when it is safe to do so. This is why the temporary Ukraine schemes do not lead to settlement.
Read full response - 27 FEB 202510,000 signatures reachedEligible for a government response
- 17 FEB 2025Petition opened for signatures
Background
In March 2022, many Ukrainians were offered 3-year visas, due to expire in March 2025.
We're concerned that applications for extension can only be made when a visa has 28 days or less until expiry. Early applications risk rejection.
It's been reported that processing the extension can take 8 weeks. We think it creates uncertainty.
There is no clarity on options after the 18 months. The years many Ukrainians have spent here should count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years, as it does for any other humanitarian route.