This 90-day application window now applies to:
- first time UPE applications, and
- further UPE applications (extensions), once eligible
Applying at any point within the 90-day window will not reduce the length of permission granted. Any remaining valid time on the current visa will be added to the new period of permission.
Please note:
- applications made earlier than 90 days before expiry may be delayed or refused, as they do not meet the requirements
- if an application has already been submitted, this change does not affect how it will be decided
It is important that all guests know when their current UPE visas expire. Guests can check the dates by logging in to their UKVI account and viewing their eVisa. It will clearly state the start and end date of a guest's UK visa.
How UPE2 extension will affect guests and hosts
As part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, Thank You payments were created to recognise the generosity of hosts welcoming people fleeing the war. National policy has since changed, and these payments will end when a guest's 18-month UPE1 visa expires and they begin their second, 24-month Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE2).
UPE2 changes will affect households at different times, depending on when guests arrived.
Successful applicants retain the exact same rights and access to public funds as under the initial Ukraine schemes:
- right to work: work in the UK without needing a separate work visa
- education and healthcare: free access to the NHS and the ability to enrol in schools or higher education
- access to benefits: entitlement to claim public funds/welfare benefits if you meet the eligibility criteria
- right to rent: rent accommodation in the UK
You can find further updates on the UPE extension and application process.