Cambridge MP to raise Ukraine visa update issue with ministers

While the debate over what happens next in Ukraine’s valiant defence of its country is rightly the most important topic for Ukrainians in Cambridge, their visa situation risks becoming a destabilising influence on their lives.

The full-scale invasion of their homeland took place in February 2022: by April the Homes for Ukraine scheme allowed thousands of Ukrainians to seek refuge in the UK on a three-year visa.

It’s now three years later, and the UK government has set up a scheme whereby the visa can be extended for 18 months. But the tricky bit, explains Inna Sukhoraba, is that applicants can only apply for the 18-month extension within 28 days of their three-year visa running out.

Inna came to the UK in April 2022 and she will apply for the extension later this month. She had worked at the National Bank of Ukraine in Kiev for 17 years. When she arrived in the UK with her daughter as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, she initially went to Tetbury in Gloucestershire, before moving to Waterbeach last year.

As with Ukrainians across the region, Inna is immensely thankful for the support she has received while in the UK – and especially thankful to South Cambridgeshire District Council for the assistance she received when her daughter suffered from depression last year.

“I cannot complain because I feel safe here. Yes there are issues but I’m very grateful to the British government to be able to live in safety and to the British people who have helped me and my daughter a lot.”

Last month Inna organised an event which saw three Ukrainian lawyers working for London-based Sterling Law, and the Ukrainian managing partner of Faros Capital – also based in London – take questions from Ukrainians living in Cambridge about their tax, accounting and legal arrangements.

There are two immediate concerns:

- That the government might be processing a lot of applications for the extension and there may be delays, which could mean they are ineligible to stay in the UK

- That the uncertainty causes immense and perhaps unnecessary stress for a community because it creates difficulties in childcare, work and living accommodation arrangements.

“Over the past three years,” Inna says, “Ukrainians have made tremendous efforts to establish new lives here, adapt to their surroundings, and build strong connections with the British community. Many of us arrived in the UK under emergency circumstances, often with just a backpack or suitcase, driven by the need to protect our children and secure a safer future.

“Since then, a significant number of Ukrainians have developed a deep affection for the UK. Today, 'Today, 69 per cent of Ukrainian adults either had a job or were self-employed as of April 2024, contributing to the economy by paying taxes. Our children build friendships with their British peers, attending nursery, schools, and universities.

“However, despite these successes, many Ukrainians cannot plan further than a few months ahead due to uncertainty surrounding immigration status. This uncertainty prevents us from fully integrating into society or planning for a long-term future.

“For this reason, many Ukrainians in the UK are seeking clarity and guidance on how to secure more stable immigration statuses and build a sustainable future.”

Cambridge MP Daniel Zeichner said: “I fully appreciate the concerns of Ukrainians in Cambridge as their visa renewal window approaches. The uncertainty surrounding work, housing and childcare arrangements is deeply unsettling for many families.

“It is clear that in the face of this devastating war, many Ukrainians have made Cambridge their home, contributing enormously to our community and local economy, and I will raise these concerns with my ministerial colleagues.”

South Cambridgeshire District Council’s lead cabinet member for housing, Cllr John Batchelor, said: “We’re proud to have welcomed more than 950 guests to South Cambridgeshire under the Homes for Ukraine scheme – one of the highest numbers for a district council. We’re thrilled to hear the support we’ve provided to Inna and her daughter has made a difference.

“Any Ukrainians in South Cambridgeshire in need of further support, advice or guidance can contact the District Council at HFULiaison@scambs.gov.uk or on 01954 713411.”

The Home Office’s most recent statement on the visa application process says: “The UK’s support for Ukraine remains steadfast and, together with our partners and allies, we stand in solidarity with Ukraine and condemn the Russian government’s unprovoked and premeditated war.

“We recognise the Ukrainian government’s desire for the return of their citizens to help rebuild Ukraine when it is safe to do so. This is why the temporary Ukraine schemes do not lead to settlement.”

Home Office advice on the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme is available here.