More than 100,000 Ukrainians fleeing war now living in UK

Refugees fleeing Russia's invasion of Ukraine wait outisde an immigration office in Brussels
REUTERS
William Mata28 July 2022

More than 100,000 people fleeing the war in Ukraine have received sanctuary in the UK, government figures have shown.

As of Monday, 104,000 had arrived under the visa schemes - including 31,300 under the family scheme, and 72,700 under the Homes for Ukraine sponsorship scheme.

Around 198,200 applications have been made for visas, according to figures seen on Tuesday, and 166,200 visas have been issued - with the difference in numbers coming from those who have yet to arrive in the UK.

These include 55,000 applications under the family scheme, of which 47,200 visas have been granted, and 143,200 applications under the sponsorship scheme, of which 119,000 visas have been granted.

Since early spring, the government says it has streamlined the visa application system to get people to safety as soon as possible. This has involved working with councils and community groups to provide support to Ukrainians.

Refugees minister Lord Harrington said: “We would not be able to welcome 100,000 people from Ukraine to our shores without generous people around the country opening their doors. 

“It is important that we recognise the selfless work of the public to help Ukrainians integrate into their communities.

“We understand families are having to make difficult decisions to leave their homes – which is why it is important we took the time to get this right to ensure we can continue offering safety to as many Ukrainians as possible.”

Ukrainians who have arrived have shared their gratitude.

Maria Kartashova, who lives with her host in Surrey said: “I want to send my gratitude to all the British people and my sponsors personally.

“What you are doing for the Ukrainian people is more than help. You support us at every stage, spend your time and energy, pay attention and give care. I cannot put into words how grateful I am.”

The Ukraine visa process is now fully digital and Ukrainians have the right to work and to access benefits and public services, including education and healthcare, on the same-footing as UK nationals.

The government has said this will continue to be the case for those who wish to remain in the UK. 

The government is providing £10,500 per person under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme to councils to enable them to provide support to families to rebuild their lives and fully integrate into communities.

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