The new Ukraine Family Scheme formally began today.

The definition of family is tripartite: the scheme is open to immediate family members, extended family members, and the immediate family member of an extended family member.

The Home Secretary made an initial announcement on visa concessions for Ukrainians on 24 February.

This scheme builds on the original announcement, the concessions of which were only available to those with valid visas in the UK.

The Ukraine Family Scheme is freely available to those both inside and outwith the UK, and will last for up to three years.

It is unclear as to whether or not this will be extended, a matter entirely dependant on the duration of the conflict.

Those applying outwith will need to attend a biometric appointment centre. It should be noted that centres in Kyiv are, understandably, closed.

Temporary centres are open in Lviv and in Rzeszow, Poland, alongside other neighbouring countries.

An applicant should identify a nearby biometric appointment centre at the earliest opportunity.

A UK-based family member is someone who must be one of the following:

1. A British national;
2. A settled individual (indefinite leave to remain or settled stats);
3. An individual with pre-settled status; or
4. An individual with refugee or humanitarian protection status.

The categories include:

1. Immediate family members - which includes your:
   1. Spouse or civil partner;
   2. Unmarried partner (living together in a relationship for  at least 2 years);
   3. Child (under 18 years);
   4. Parent (if you are under 18 years); or
   5. Fiancé or proposed civil partner.
   6. Extended family members – which includes your:
      1. Parent (if you are over 18 years);
      2. Child (under 18 years);
      3. Grandparent;
      4. Grandchild or your partner’s grandchild; or
      5. Sibling.
2. Immediate family member of an extended family member – is:
   1. Spouse or civil partner of an extended family member;
   2. Child under 18 years of an extended family member;
   3. Parent of a child under 18 years who is an extended family member; or
   4. Fiancé or proposed civil partner of an extended family member.

It is worth noting that other family members will be considered, but only in exceptional circumstances. It is unclear what can be categorised as exceptional in a war.

We hope to gain further clarity on these matters as they scheme develops - including why the Home Office have included a condition on those residing in the UK “prior to 1 January 2022 (including those who have now left Ukraine)”.

It bears repeating that people should ensure they can identify a nearby appointment centre before applying to avoid invalidating their applications under the scheme.

If you have a query relating to the new Ukraine Family Scheme visa scheme or need assistance with any other aspect of immigration law please do not hesitate to get in touch.

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