Ukrainians Can Bring Dependent Children to the UK Again

The UK government has reversed the decision from last February restricting Ukrainian families from bringing dependents, unless they had settled status or citizenship in the UK or Ireland. Now, in welcome news, Ukrainians on the Homes for Ukraine sponsorship scheme can now sponsor their children to join them in the UK.

For further information or support to bring your family to the UK from Ukraine, reach out to our IAS on +44 (0)333 414 9244 or use our live chat to get help today.

Last modified on January 31, 2025 at 11:44 pm

It was welcome news for Ukrainians with a visa under any Ukrainian Scheme in the UK, on 31st January 2025, as the Home Office announced Ukrainian parents are able to bring their children once more.

The decision reverses the sponsorship requirements established by the Home Office in February 2024, stating only British or Irish citizens or those with permanent UK residency could act as a sponsor.

Director of the Immigration Advice Service, Ono Okeregha said:

“It’s such an important announcement for Ukrainian families who have faced such uncertainty, to finally allow parents and children to reunite, freely and legally. Some of these children have been stuck in Ukraine for a year awaiting an outcome.”

“Many Ukrainians came to the UK believing they could bring their children with them. That possibility was taken away in February 2024. Most immigration lawyers were taken aback by the changes, and we’re delighted to see the Home Office right that wrong today.”

The new rules will apply to future applications, as well as existing applications.

New Criteria for Bringing Child Dependents

Parents or legal guardians looking to bring their children to the UK under the revised Homes for Ukraine scheme must meet specific criteria:

They must have permission under one of the Ukraine Schemes or have been granted Leave Outside the Rules due to the Ukraine conflict before these schemes were introduced.
They must ensure their child has suitable accommodation for the entire duration of their visa.
They must provide official documentation proving their relationship with the child, such as a birth certificate, adoption papers, or legal guardianship records.

It now allows for a parent or legal guardian in the UK under any Ukrainian visa scheme apply as a sponsor to child dependents. This includes:

Ukraine Family Scheme
Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine)
Ukraine Extension Scheme
Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) Scheme

If you or someone you know needs support navigating the visa process for bringing your children to the UK from Ukraine, our expert immigration lawyers are available to help. Don’t face this challenge alone—get in touch with legal experts today to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

The news comes amid backlash from charities and affected families since the government brought in swift and unexpected changes to the Ukrainian Visa Scheme last February. It has been a monumental relief to families who have faced tumultuous circumstances, often resorting to illegal or uncertain routes to ensure the safety of their children.

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Written by Immigration Advice Service

Editorial Team

This content was developed by a team of researchers, editors, and lawyers who provide valuable information to those with immigration queries.

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