The UK has expanded its Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme while maintaining temporary restrictions on certain Student and Skilled Worker visa applications from four countries.

The two measures affect different groups: Ukrainians already living in the UK under eligible schemes and prospective applicants submitting specified visa applications from overseas.

The measures form part of wider UK work visa changes affecting Secondment and Seasonal Workers introduced during 2026.

UK Ukraine Permission Extension Adds Another 24 Months

From Wednesday, April 8, 2026, eligible people who received an initial 18-month grant under the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme can apply for a further period of up to 24 months.

Applications may be submitted during the 90 days before the applicant’s current permission expires. Applying within that window will not reduce the new period because remaining time may be added to the extension.

Eligible applicants must generally be in the UK and must previously have received permission under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme, Ukraine Family Scheme, Ukraine Extension Scheme or the initial Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme.

The application is free. Successful applicants retain permission to live, work and study in the UK and may continue accessing public funds when eligible.

The scheme provides temporary protection and is not a direct path to permanent UK settlement.

UK Visa Brake Affects Four Nationalities

A separate visa brake took effect at 12:01 a.m. UK time on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

Overseas Student visa applications submitted by main applicants who are nationals of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar or Sudan must be refused while the measure remains active.

Afghan nationals applying from overseas as main applicants under the Skilled Worker route are also affected.

While some overseas applications face restrictions, a separate UK Service Supplier pathway offers 1,800 annual places for eligible Indian chefs, musicians and yoga instructors under the UK–India trade agreement.

The restrictions apply even when an applicant already holds a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies or Certificate of Sponsorship.

Visas granted before the brake remain valid until their scheduled expiry date. Eligible people already in the UK may still be able to seek an in-country extension or switch to another immigration route.

The government has described the visa brake as temporary but has not announced when it will end. Applicants from the affected countries should review current Home Office guidance before paying fees or making travel and education plans.

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