Date published: 30.07.2025
Learn everything about the Homes for Ukraine program in the UK: who can apply, how to find a sponsor, what documents are required, what challenges arise, and how Consultant lawyers can help avoid refusals.
The Homes for Ukraine program is a UK government initiative that allows British citizens and residents to become sponsors for Ukrainians fleeing the war. Ukrainians receive the right to safely enter the UK and live for up to 3 years, with the ability to work, study, and access social support.
The main idea of the program: a British family or resident provides accommodation for a Ukrainian (or a Ukrainian family) for at least 6 months, and the government pays the sponsor £350 per month as a thank-you.
Who can apply
- Ukrainians and their family members who:
- lived in Ukraine before January 1, 2022;
- have a foreign or internal passport (exceptions are possible);
- found a British sponsor (an individual or an organization).
A sponsor can be:
- a UK citizen;
- a resident with the right to live in the UK;
- an organization or charity willing to host Ukrainians.
Step-by-step application procedure
- Find a sponsor. Friends, relatives, volunteer platforms, charities. Lawyers can help verify the legality and reliability of the sponsor.
- Submit an online application. The application is submitted via the UK Government website. Both the Ukrainian and the sponsor submit it (mutually).
- Security checks. The sponsor is checked by the police and local authorities. Ukrainians are screened for any legal issues.
- Receive entry permission (Visa Permission). For Ukrainians with a foreign passport — digital status (no visa sticker needed). For those without a passport — a visa letter is issued to allow entry.
- Arrival in the UK and BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) issuance. Within 6 months of arrival, biometrics must be submitted to receive a BRP confirming official status.
Rights and opportunities under Homes for Ukraine
- Legal residence in the UK for up to 3 years.
- Right to work officially.
- Access to education and NHS medical services.
- Social benefits, including Universal Credit.
Common challenges and solutions
- Difficulty finding a sponsor. Many Britons apply but are not always ready to host families with children. Lawyers can suggest verified resources and help prepare invitation letters.
- Mistakes in applications. Incorrect data or missing documents cause delays or refusals. A lawyer will check the form and compile the correct document package.
- Problems after arrival. Conflicts with the sponsor, need to change housing. A lawyer can assist in contacting local authorities or finding new accommodation.
- Future legalisation. After 3 years, you must either return or change your status (e.g., work visa, family visa). A lawyer will advise on the best option and prepare the documents.
To avoid mistakes and delays, contact the lawyers at Consultant. We will help you:
- find a reliable sponsor;
- correctly prepare documents;
- avoid the risk of refusal;
- smoothly complete the process from application to BRP issuance.
The Homes for Ukraine program has become a real opportunity for Ukrainians to find safe shelter in the UK and start a new life. However, the visa application and sponsor search process can be complicated and confusing, especially without experience with the UK immigration system.
