UPE Phase 1 extension 2025
Guests who have HFU visas that are shortly expiring and wish to stay in the UK should make an application to the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) scheme to extend their stay before their current permission expires.
Until the 8th April 2026, applications can only be made when their current permission has 28 days or less remaining until it expires. Early or late applications will not be accepted and may lead to permission being denied.
The UPE scheme will continue to offer temporary sanctuary to Ukrainians and their eligible family members, and will:
- provide up to 18 months permission to remain in the UK
- provide the same entitlements to work, study, rent and receive benefits
- be free to apply for
UPE Phase 2 extension 2026
For those guests currently on the UPE scheme in the UK, you’ll be able to apply to receive an additional 24 months permission to stay in the UK. This takes the total permission under UPE to 3 and a half years.
You’ll be able to apply for this extension 90 days before your current permission expires. It remains free to apply.
From 8th April 2026, The 90-day window will apply for first time UPE applications and second UPE applications once open, for those seeking an extension.
Applying at any point within the 90-day window will not reduce the total permission granted. Any remaining valid permission will be added to the new grant.
These changes are not yet in force
Until 8 April, the current 28-day application window continues to apply and you cannot yet apply for the additional 24 months permission.
Applications submitted more than 28 days before your permission ends may be rejected.
For more information, please visit the GOV.UK website.
Host payments and funding tariffs section
From 1 April 2026, Hampshire County Council will pay all hosts £350 per month.
It has been confirmed that 'thank you payments' are available to sponsors for the duration of the guests' Ukraine visa permission - up to 36 months for sponsors of guests on a 3 year Homes for Ukraine visa, and up to 18 months for guests on the new 18 month Homes for Ukraine visa (which came into effect on 19 February 2024).
Under the Ukraine Permission Extension (UPE) Scheme (which came into effect on 4 February 2025), thank you payments are available to sponsors of guest who extend their stay in the UK for a maximum of 18 months.
On 26 November 2024, MHCLG confirmed sponsor payments will only continue for the first 18 months of the guests UPE period. After this 18 months, thank you payments will discontinue.