IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Home Office has updated its travel guidance for Ukrainian nationals who are fleeing Ukraine.

Key Points:

  • Travelers who are leaving from Ukraine are no longer required to complete a passenger locator form, take a pre-departure COVID-19 test or book a PCR test upon arrival.
  • Ukrainian nationals who have family in the U.K. can now apply for the Ukraine Family Scheme to live, work and study in the U.K. through this website. To apply for the scheme applicants must:
    • Be applying to join a UK-based family member who is a British national, a permanent resident, someone with refugee or humanitarian protection in the U.K. or someone from the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland who has pre-settled status and was living in the U.K. before Jan. 1, 2021.
    • Provide proof that the UK-based family member is an immediate family member, extended family member, or an immediate family member of an extended family member.
    • Have been living in Ukraine on or before Jan. 1, 2022.
  • Ukrainian nationals who do not have family in the U.K. will be able to apply under the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Those who enter the U.K. through this scheme will be able to stay in the U.K. for up to 12 months and will be able to work and access public services.
    • More information regarding the Homes for Ukraine scheme is available here. Additional details for those sponsoring Ukrainian nationals under this scheme will be published in the coming weeks.

Additional Information: Individuals can still apply for the Ukraine Family Scheme if an applicant is unable to provide proof of family relationship. More information regarding the U.K.’s travel guidance for Ukrainian nationals, the Ukraine Family Scheme and Homes for Ukraine is available here.

BAL Analysis: The Home Office continues to modify its immigration concessions for those who are fleeing Ukraine. Employers and employees are reminded that actions taken as a result of the invasion of Ukraine may change with little or no notice. BAL will continue to monitor developments regarding the invasion and will provide more information as it becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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