Many Ukrainians in the UK want to stay longer or settle here permanently. But it’s important to know, that Ukraine visa schemes (Homes for Ukraine or Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme) do not lead to permanent stay (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR). Some people are thinking about applying for Refugee Status or Humanitarian Protection (HP) instead.
At EERC, we do not help with Refugee or HP applications, but we want to give you helpful advice.
What Is Humanitarian Protection (HP) or Refugee Status?
These are types of protection for people in danger.
They can sometimes lead to long-term stay in the UK.
You must prove your case with strong evidence.
The rules are very strict, and the process often takes up to 12 months.
⚠️ Things to Think About Before Applying for Refugee or HP
Most Ukrainians are civilians fleeing the war, and these are not personal threats.
Because of this, many people may not qualify for full Refugee Status.
Some may qualify for Humanitarian Protection (HP) – but only in serious situations, each case will be learned separately by the Home Office.
HP is temporary, not permanent. You may need to extend it and prove you are still at risk.
If the UK government decides Ukraine is safer (or even our home region of Ukraine), they may cancel your permission to stay.
Here is the short comparative table to see the difference:
| Ukraine Visa Schemes (e.g. Homes for Ukraine, UPES) | Refugee Status / Humanitarian Protection (HP) | |
|---|---|---|
| How fast is the process? | ✔️ Quick and simple process (up to 8 weeks) | 🚫 Slow – can take many months or years (at least 12 months) |
| Right to work | ✔️ Yes, you can work | 🚫 No – you cannot work while waiting |
| Where you live | ✔️ You can rent or apply for housing support | 🚫 Must live in government-provided housing, no choice No private renting |
| Benefits and financial help | ✔️ You can get benefits if needed (Universal credit, Housing benefits etc) | 🚫 No access to benefits until your case is approved |
| Using NHS healthcare | ✔️ Yes, you can use NHS | 🚫 Limited access until status is granted |
| Settlement (ILR) | 🚫 Does not lead directly to Indefinite Leave to Remain | ✔️ May lead to ILR, depending on the case (you need to prove the circumstances while the extension) |
| Risk of losing permission | ✔️ Secure if you apply for extension on time (even if you apply lately, some exceptions may apply) | 🚫 Risk of removal if protection no longer needed |
| Switching back to Ukraine Scheme | ✔️ You stay on your current Ukraine visa | ❗ You may lose your Ukraine visa if you apply for Refugee/HP |
| Evidence needed | ✔️ Basic documents (passport, BRP) | 🚫 Strong, detailed evidence required |
Before You Decide Please remember:
✅ Always get independent and legal advice from a registered and certified asylum adviser before switching from Ukraine visa to asylum/HP.
✅ Read all official government updates – the Ukraine visa rules may change depending on the war in Ukraine.
Please note that At EERC we do not assist with alternative routes to settlement such as applications for Refugee Status or Humanitarian Protection (HP).
However, if you need help with your application for Ukraine schemes or have additional enquiry, please contact our helpline 07718612218 (Ukrainian / Russian / English) or email us at info@eerc.org.uk