Britain simplifies visa restrictions for Ukrainians: what has changed.

Ukrainian parents can become sponsors for their children under the 'Homes for Ukraine' program

The United Kingdom has made significant changes to its visa policy, allowing Ukrainian parents and legal guardians to become sponsors for their children in the country. This decision was made to address an issue that arose after restrictions were introduced in February 2024. This was reported by the BBC.

Previously, Ukrainians without permanent residency in the UK could not sponsor their children, whereas British and Irish citizens retained this opportunity. This situation, where individuals with British citizenship can sponsor Ukrainian children while their parents cannot, creates an illogical precedent.

This legal inconsistency has had painful consequences for Ukrainian families. According to reports, some parents were forced to seek alternative, often illegal methods to reunite with their children in the UK.

The 'Homes for Ukraine' program, launched in March 2022, has already helped over 190,000 Ukrainians find shelter in the UK.

Along with the restrictions in the 'Homes for Ukraine' program, the 'Ukraine Family Scheme,' which previously allowed Ukrainians to join family members with permanent residency in the UK, has also been suspended.

It is important to note that the United Kingdom has accepted 300,000 refugees from Ukraine.