Ukraine guests advised to check visa end date

Ukrainian nationals living and working in Dorset are reminded to ensure they have access to their eVisa and are aware of the date their current permission to stay in the UK ends.

Whether they are on the Homes for Ukraine Scheme, Family Scheme or the Extension scheme, they will be eligible to apply for the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) scheme shortly before their current visa ends, which would extend their permission to stay in the UK for another 18 months.

Any employers and landlords that are unsure about a person’s right to rent and work in the UK can use the government’s right to rent check and Employer Checking Service.

The new Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) scheme opens on 4 February.

Cllr Ryan Hope, Portfolio Holder for Customer, Culture and Community Engagement at Dorset Council said: “Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many displaced people and families have come to live in Dorset.

“We urge people to get in touch if they are not sure when their current visa ends, or if they need help with their application form.

“Late applications could mean they lose their right to access all public funds, which could affect their work, ability to rent or study. It could also mean benefits are stopped and in some circumstances may need to be paid back.”

The Ukraine Permission Extension must be applied for within 28 days of their current visa expiry and processing the applications can take up to 8 weeks.

Cllr Hope added: “The council have a dedicated Ukraine support team who can link you to advice and support, as well as provide access to computers and internet. Citizens Advice can help you to complete the application at their local offices.”

Contact our Ukraine Response Team if you need further guidance:

e-mail:

ukraineresponse@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Tel:   01305 221000

Alternatively, you can:

Contact UK Visas and Immigration to get:

help with your UKVI account

guidance about how to access your eVisa