world
Non-Ukrainian Nationals Receive Over 3,400 Visas Under UK Ukraine Refugee Schemes
Data from the Home Office shows that 3,464 visas under two schemes for Ukrainians fleeing the war have been granted to individuals from other countries. These schemes include the Ukraine Family Scheme and the Homes for Ukraine sponsorship programme. The recipients originate from various nations, including Russia, Nigeria, and Afghanistan.
Apr 12, 4:01 AM·1m read1 source
Substrate placeholder — needs reviewAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Two visa schemes established by the UK government in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 have allowed entry to non-Ukrainian nationals. Home Office data indicates that 3,464 visas under these schemes have been issued to individuals not from Ukraine, representing about one in 80 total visas.
The largest group of non-Ukrainian recipients is from Russia, with 588 visas. Nigerians received 408 visas, Afghans 294, Iraqis 161, Moldovans 152, and Indians 124. Additional recipients include 107 from Belarus, 81 from Ghana, 65 from Syria, 34 from Libya, 27 from Palestine, 18 from Vietnam, and 17 from Yemen.
hail from countries across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and even South America, with 10 visas issued to individuals from Argentina and Chile.
The schemes are designed specifically for Ukrainians affected by the conflict, but non-Ukrainians can qualify if they are part of a family group that includes an immediate Ukrainian family member and apply simultaneously. Britain maintains general asylum processes for applicants from any country facing conflict or instability, separate from these targeted resettlement programmes.
A Home Office spokesperson stated that the schemes are temporary and align with the Ukrainian government's position on the eventual return of its citizens.
These visas do not provide a pathway to permanent settlement. The data was reported by The Telegraph based on Home Office figures.
The revelation has drawn commentary from political figures.
Zia Yusuf, Reform UK's Home Affairs spokesman, described the situation as an "astonishing betrayal" and criticized the previous Conservative government's handling of immigration. The schemes were introduced following the invasion to provide sanctuary to those displaced by the war. As of the current date, the UK continues to process asylum applications under various frameworks.