Publication date: 31.03.2025
My name is Yelyzaveta Mazur, I am a lawyer from Kyiv. My main area of expertise is migration practice. Regardless of the complexity of your situation, you will receive an individual approach, clear recommendations and full support at every stage.
Case Overview: The client's request was aimed at obtaining legal support for a UK visa application under the "Homes for Ukraine" program. This program allows Ukrainian citizens affected by the war to receive temporary shelter in the UK with the support of a local sponsor.
Responsible Lawyer: Yelyzaveta Mazur, immigration law specialist.
Case Circumstances: Our client left Ukraine at the beginning of the full-scale war and was residing in Germany under temporary protection when she contacted us. To obtain a visa, she needed to find a sponsor and get approval from the UK authorities.
Situation Analysis and Decision-Making: Before proceeding, the lawyer analyzed the client's eligibility for the visa, considering all aspects of her case.
Initially, the client was deciding between two options—UK and the USA. Through consultations and professional analysis, we determined that the UK was the best option due to the accessibility of the "Homes for Ukraine" program and her current status in Europe.
What is the "Homes for Ukraine" program?
"Homes for Ukraine" is a UK government program designed to support Ukrainians who were forced to flee due to the war. It allows UK citizens and residents to act as sponsors and provide housing for Ukrainian refugees. Participants in the program receive the right to reside in the UK for up to three years with employment and access to social services.
Visa Application Process:
- Finding a Sponsor (March 21, 2024) – one of the key steps, as obtaining a visa under this program is impossible without a confirmed sponsor.
- Gathering Necessary Documents – the client, along with the lawyer, prepared the required documents for submission. The lawyer also assisted in preparing the sponsor’s documents to ensure compliance with program requirements.
- Submitting the Sponsorship Petition (May 13, 2024) – the client submitted a request for sponsorship approval, and our team monitored the verification and approval process.
- Biometric Appointment and Interview (May 27, 2024) – the client was invited to submit biometric data in Düsseldorf, Germany. The lawyer helped her prepare for the interview by providing guidance on typical questions.
- Approval and Visa Issuance – after completing the interview, the client received a positive decision and the visa was affixed to her passport.
Requirements for the "Homes for Ukraine" Visa:
- A valid international passport
- Proof of identity and Ukrainian citizenship.
- A confirmed sponsor in the UK.
- Completed online visa application form.
- Biometric data submission (photo and fingerprints) at the visa center.
- Confirmation of compliance with program conditions.
How Can We Help?
Legal assistance in such cases significantly simplifies the visa application process and ensures compliance with all program requirements.
We provide:
- Consultation on the "Homes for Ukraine" program – explaining eligibility, requirements, and prospects for obtaining a visa.
- Assistance in document preparation – helping with application forms and required confirmations.
- Interview preparation – providing recommendations on typical questions that may arise during the interview.
- Monitoring all document submission stages – from gathering paperwork to obtaining a positive decision.
Obtaining a UK visa under the "Homes for Ukraine" program can be a complex process, but thanks to professional legal support, our client was able to achieve the desired result quickly and smoothly. Our experience in immigration law helps clients avoid mistakes that could affect the final decision and confidently navigate all necessary procedures. If you need assistance with visa applications or emigration documents, contact our lawyers for expert guidance!
