Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain
AUGB Ltd, 49 Linden Gardens, London, W2 4HG

Sponsoring Ukrainian Refugees

This section collates a number of sources of information and advice from the Government and other agencies. For Government information, we suggest that you opt to receive email updates so that you are alerted to changes.

The information in these sections is for guidance only and does not constitute immigration or other legal advice.

I want to sponsor a Ukrainian to stay in my home / accommodation

This information is for you if you wish to host and sponsor a Ukrainian in your home, even if you do not have the name of someone or their details. 

UK government has launched a Homes for Ukraine scheme which allows Ukrainian nationals to stay with a sponsor in the UK for up to six months. People are eligible to be sponsored under this scheme if they are Ukrainian nationals or are immediate family members of Ukrainian nationals (who have the right to live and work in the UK), and were resident in Ukraine before 1 January 2022.

Under the scheme, Ukrainian nationals will be able to stay in the UK for three years. During this time, they will be able to work and access benefits and public services – including healthcare and schooling.

Government information about this scheme and how to register is found here: https://homesforukraine.campaign.gov.uk/

Questions about practicalities are answered here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/homes-for-ukraine-scheme-frequently-asked-questions and https://cityofsanctuary.org/2022/03/17/things-to-consider-before-applying-to-sponsor/

How do I find the name of someone to sponsor?

If you do not know the name of someone to sponsor, the Government has published a list of voluntary and community sector organisations running schemes which provide support for and help match sponsors with people coming to the UK from Ukraine. See: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/recognised-providers-organisations-who-can-help-uk-citizens-become-sponsors

As a UK sponsor you will need to complete an application form with your details and that of the Ukrainian national you are sponsoring.

Security checks for both Ukrainian nationals and the UK sponsor will be undertaken as part of the visa application process. Accommodation and DBS checks on sponsors will be carried out on sponsors by their local authority – generally before your Ukrainian guest arrives. Biometric checks will be made after Ukrainians arrive in the UK to avoid delays.

What can I do if I already know someone to sponsor?

If you already know the name of the person you want to sponsor, you will need to get in touch with them directly and prepare to fill in a visa application. This should contain both all of their details and yours. The visa application form is comprehensive so please be prepared to spend a little time to ensure that you have collated all of the required information.  

The visa application form is here (English only): https://apply.visas-immigration.service.gov.uk/has-international-ukrainian-passport  A Ukrainian translation of the visa application form and guidance notes is here: https://www.uspuk.org/documents