The UK visa application process is not necessarily straightforward. It involves two parties: the sponsor (a UK resident with a room or several available to house an individual or more) and the sponsee (a Ukraine resident seeking refuge in the UK).
A number of us at UKUATogether.com have gone through the visa application process on behalf of sponsors or sponsees and we’ve documented some useful information. The chart above summarises the process but do scroll below for access to useful documents and links.
Useful links pre-application
Government FAQ about the scheme: www.gov.uk/guidance/homes-for-ukraine-scheme-frequently-asked-questions
For sponsors to record their interest to become a sponsor on the government website: www.gov.uk/register-interest-homes-ukraine
It is strongly advised for sponsors to read the below information that describes the conditions for a home to be suitable to host Ukrainian refugees:
- All accommodation will be different and while there is no set expectation, your accommodation needs to be free from serious health and safety hazards. You should make sure your home is safe for your guests and that it is in a suitable condition.
- You should also consider how many people you can accommodate so they have sufficient space. Two people should not be in one room unless they are: adult cohabiting partners; a parent and child; two siblings of the same gender if aged over 10; two siblings regardless of gender if aged under 10. Individuals who didn’t previously know each other should not be given the same room.
Useful documents when applying for the visa:
Sponsor checklist:
- Personal information: Identity details of the sponsor: Full name, previous names (eg. maiden name), DOB, passport details
- Contact details: Email, phone number
- Family: Details of other 18+ year olds living in the house where the sponsee will live
Sponsee (refugee) checklist:
- Identity details for each sponsee: Full name, DOB, passport details
- Previous name if any available (eg. maiden name)
- Passport details of any other nationality if applicable
- An email address that will receive the letter confirming successful visa and a phone number in case they need to get in touch
- If both legal guardians aren’t travelling with the sponsee (eg. father stays in Ukraine), kids will need a consent letter signed by both parents
- You’ll need to answer a few questions about previous work experience, criminal background, previous visa applications etc.