The UK visa fee for Ukrainian citizens in 2026 is ₴7,783 ($181) for a 6-month visitor visa. Ukrainian nationals enjoy an exceptional 94% visitor visa approval rate — one of the highest globally. Additionally, the UK Government's Ukraine Schemes remain open for those affected by the 2022 Russian invasion, offering fee-free family sponsorship and visa extensions. This guide covers both special Ukraine provisions and standard UK visa routes with complete fees in Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH).
Source: Home Office Immigration System Statistics, year ending September 2025
According to Home Office statistics (year ending September 2025), Ukrainian nationals enjoy a 94% visitor visa approval rate. Out of 47,543 applications, only 2,636 were refused. For the broader picture, see our country UK visa success rates.
UK Visa for Ukrainian Citizens 2026: Complete Guide
Ukrainian citizens require a UK visa for any visit, study, or work — though the special Ukraine Schemes provide fee-free routes for those affected by the 2022 Russian invasion. Standard applications follow the regular Home Office process via VFS Global, with Ukrainians benefiting from one of the highest approval rates of any nationality. For broader Eurasian context, Russian citizens also maintain strong approval rates (92%), though Russian nationals do not qualify for any fee-free schemes.
Ukraine Schemes: Fee-Free UK Visa Options
The UK Government offers three fee-free visa schemes for Ukrainians affected by the 2022 Russian invasion: Ukraine Family Scheme (for those with UK-based family), Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (for those with a UK sponsor), and Ukraine Extension Scheme (for Ukrainians already in the UK). All schemes have no application fees and no IHS requirement.
Ukraine Scheme Statistics (YE September 2025)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Applications | 20,750 |
| Granted | 14,724 |
| Grant Rate | 67% |
| Year-on-Year Change | Down 35% |
Source: Home Office Immigration System Statistics, year ending September 2025
Ukraine Family Scheme
- Purpose: Allows Ukrainian nationals and their family members to join relatives in the UK
- Eligible Sponsors: British citizens, settled persons (ILR holders), or refugees in the UK
- Family Members: Immediate family (spouse/partner, children under 18), extended family (grandparents, adult children), and non-Ukrainian relatives if there's a Ukrainian immediate family member
- Cost: FREE (no application fee, no IHS)
- Duration: Up to 3 years
- Apply at: gov.uk Ukraine Family Scheme
Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme
- Purpose: For Ukrainians with a UK sponsor willing to provide accommodation for at least 6 months
- Applicant Requirements: Resided in Ukraine on or before 1 January 2022; currently outside the UK
- Sponsor Requirements: UK-based; minimum 6 months UK residence permission; valid ID; commit to providing 6-month accommodation
- Cost: FREE (no application fee, no IHS)
- Duration: Up to 3 years
- Apply at: gov.uk Homes for Ukraine
Ukraine Extension Scheme
- Purpose: For Ukrainians already in the UK who wish to extend their stay
- Eligibility: Had immigration permission in the UK as of 18 March 2022; last permission ended after 1 January 2022
- Rights: Allows work and study in the UK
- Important: Does NOT count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain
- Cost: FREE (no application fee, no IHS)
- Apply at: gov.uk Ukraine Extension Scheme
Special Concessions for Ukrainians
Beyond the Ukraine Schemes, the UK Government offers additional concessions for Ukrainian visa applicants:
| Concession | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Document Flexibility | Written explanations accepted for missing documents |
| TB Certificate Waiver | Tuberculosis test requirement currently waived |
| ID Check App Access | Can use UK Immigration: ID Check app for faster processing |
| Permission to Travel Letter | Can enter UK during visa processing with travel letter |
| Expedited Processing | Three-week processing target for standard applications |
| 24/7 Helpline | Round-the-clock assistance for visa inquiries |
| In-Country Switching | Can switch to work/study visas from within the UK |
UK Visitor Visa Cost for Ukrainians 2026
The UK visitor visa cost for Ukrainians is ₴7,783 ($181) for a 6-month visa, ₴29,025 ($675) for 2 years, ₴51,858 ($1,206) for 5 years, and ₴64,758 ($1,506) for 10 years. All visitor visas allow stays of up to 180 days per visit. Ukrainians enjoy an excellent 94% approval rate.
The UK Standard Visitor visa permits Ukrainian nationals to visit the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or short courses. Each visit is limited to 180 days under the multiple entry UK visa options, regardless of which visa duration you choose. For frequent travellers, the UK long-term visitor visa offer better value.
UK Visitor Visa Success Rate for Ukrainians
| Metric | Value (YE Sep 2025) |
|---|---|
| Applications | 47,543 |
| Grant Rate | 94% |
| Refused | 2,636 |
UK Tourist Visa Fees for Ukrainians in Hryvnia
| Visa Duration | Fee (UAH) | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Months (Standard) | ₴7,783 | $181 |
| 2 Years (Long-term) | ₴29,025 | $675 |
| 5 Years (Long-term) | ₴51,858 | $1,206 |
| 10 Years (Long-term) | ₴64,758 | $1,506 |
Other UK Visitor Visa Fees from Ukraine
| Visa Type | Fee (UAH) | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage Visitor Visa | ₴7,783 | $181 |
| Medical Visitor (6-11 months) | ₴13,459 | $313 |
| Visiting Academic (6-12 months) | ₴13,459 | $313 |
| Permitted Paid Engagement | ₴7,783 | $181 |
| Direct Airside Transit | ₴2,322 | $54 |
| Visitors in Transit | ₴4,257 | $99 |
Strengthening Your Ukrainian Visitor Application
- Genuine sponsor: If visiting family or friends, include a comprehensive UK sponsor invitation letter with relationship evidence
- Strong financial evidence: 6+ months of bank statements demonstrating consistent savings
- Document checklist: Refer to our UK visa documentation requirements by category
- Travel itinerary: Confirmed accommodation, return tickets, day-by-day plan demonstrating genuine purpose
- If refused: Review common visa rejection grounds and our reapplying after refusal guide
UK Priority Visa Fees from Ukraine
Standard UK visa decision timeline from Ukraine are approximately 3 weeks. For urgent cases, fast-track UK visa processing reduce processing significantly. If you experience delays, see our UK visa delays in 2026 guide.
| Service Type | Fee (UAH) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Processing | Included | ~3 weeks |
| Priority Service | ₴30,530 ($710) | 5 working days |
| Super Priority Service | ₴61,060 ($1,420) | Next working day |
UK Student Visa Cost from Ukraine 2026
The UK student visa cost from Ukraine is ₴29,928 ($696). Additionally, students must pay the UK NHS surcharge of ₴63,210 per year ($1,470). Ukrainian students must also meet UK visa English language requirements.
The UK Student visa for international students permits Ukrainian students to study at licensed UK institutions. After graduation, students can access the Graduate route for 18 months post-study work (reduced from 2 years from January 2027). PhD graduates receive 3 years.
UK Student Visa Fees for Ukrainians in Hryvnia
| Visa Type | Fee (UAH) | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Student Visa (Main) | ₴29,928 | $696 |
| Short-term Study (6-11 months) | ₴13,072 | $304 |
| Child Student Visa | ₴29,928 | $696 |
| IHS (per year) | ₴63,210 | $1,470 |
UK Work Visa Cost for Ukrainians 2026
UK work visa fees for Ukrainians range from ₴17,329 ($403) for Health and Care Worker (up to 3 years) to ₴86,688 ($2,016) for Skilled Worker (over 3 years). The minimum salary threshold is £41,700 for most Skilled Worker roles.
Can Ukrainians Work in the UK?
Yes, Ukrainian citizens can work in the UK with appropriate work visas. The Skilled Worker sponsorship route is the primary route, requiring a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor. Additionally, Ukrainians under the Ukraine Schemes have full work rights without needing a separate work visa. Successful holders can apply for permanent UK residence after 5 years and subsequently British naturalisation.
UK Work Visa Fees for Ukrainians in Hryvnia
| Visa Type | Fee (UAH) | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (up to 3 years) | ₴43,903 | $1,021 |
| Skilled Worker (over 3 years) | ₴86,688 | $2,016 |
| Health & Care Worker (up to 3 years) | ₴17,329 | $403 |
| Health & Care Worker (over 3 years) | ₴33,626 | $782 |
| Global Business Mobility | ₴18,189 | $423 |
| Innovator Founder | ₴73,100 | $1,700 |
| Global Talent Visa | ₴48,160 | $1,120 |
| Temporary Worker (T5) | ₴18,189 | $423 |
UK Family Visa Cost from Ukraine 2026
The UK spouse visa cost from Ukraine is ₴112,703 ($2,621) with standard processing of 12-24 weeks. Priority processing (6 weeks) costs an additional ₴30,530 ($710). If your UK sponsor is a British citizen or settled person, you may qualify for the fee-free Ukraine Family Scheme instead.
The UK spouse settlement visa enables Ukrainian nationals to join their British citizen or settled partner in the UK. Most Ukrainians eligible for the Ukraine Family Scheme should use that fee-free route instead — the standard spouse visa applies primarily where Ukraine Scheme eligibility doesn't apply.
UK Family Visa Fees from Ukraine in Hryvnia
| Visa Type | Fee (UAH) | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Ukraine Family Scheme | FREE | $0 |
| Spouse/Partner Visa | ₴112,703 | $2,621 |
| Fiancé(e) Visa | ₴112,703 | $2,621 |
| ADR settlement route | ₴198,445 | $4,615 |
| Settlement Priority (+6 weeks) | +₴30,530 | +$710 |
How to Apply for UK Visa from Ukraine
Ukrainians apply for UK visas online at gov.uk. Due to the ongoing conflict, many Ukrainians apply from neighbouring countries. The UK Immigration: ID Check app is available for Ukrainians, enabling faster processing without a VAC visit in many cases.
For step-by-step guidance on the standard visa route, see our filling the UK visa application form. Ukrainians who have settled in EU countries and obtained citizenship may qualify for the UK ETA scheme rather than a full visa application — see our UK ETA scheme guide for details.
UK Visa Application Steps for Ukrainians
- Step 1: Check Ukraine Schemes first — determine if you qualify for the fee-free routes
- Step 2: If not eligible for Ukraine Schemes, identify the standard visa category
- Step 3: Complete the online application on gov.uk
- Step 4: Pay visa fee in US Dollars (cards accepted)
- Step 5: Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app for biometrics where eligible
- Step 6: Or book a VAC appointment at a VFS Global centre if app not available
- Step 7: Await decision — typically 3 weeks for visitor visas (expedited for Ukraine Schemes)
- Step 8: Ukrainians may receive a Permission to Travel letter to enter UK during processing
- Ukraine Schemes: FREE visa options for those affected by the war
- Visitor visa: ₴7,783 ($181) — 94% approval rate
- Exchange rate: 1 USD = ₴43 UAH (January 2026)
- Student visa: ₴29,928 ($696) plus IHS ₴63,210 per year
- Work visa: Skilled Worker ₴43,903 ($1,021) for up to 3 years
- Family visa: ₴112,703 ($2,621) — or FREE via Ukraine Schemes
- Priority service: +₴30,530 ($710) for 5-day processing
FAQs: UK Visa for Ukrainians
What is the Ukraine Family Scheme?
The Ukraine Family Scheme allows Ukrainian nationals and their family members to join relatives in the UK. Sponsors must be British citizens, settled persons, or refugees. The scheme has no application fee, no IHS requirement, and allows stays of up to 3 years. Apply at gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-ukraine-family-scheme-visa.
What is the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme?
The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme allows Ukrainians with a UK sponsor willing to provide accommodation for at least 6 months to come to the UK. Applicants must have resided in Ukraine on or before 1 January 2022 and be outside the UK. The scheme is free with no IHS requirement and permits stays of up to 3 years.
Does the Ukraine Extension Scheme lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
No, the Ukraine Extension Scheme does NOT count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain. While it allows Ukrainians already in the UK to extend their stay, work, and study, it is not a pathway to permanent settlement. To qualify for ILR, Ukrainians would need to switch to a qualifying visa route such as Skilled Worker or Spouse visa.
How much is a UK tourist visa for Ukrainian citizens?
The UK tourist visa cost for Ukrainian citizens is ₴7,783 ($181) for a 6-month visa, ₴29,025 ($675) for 2 years, ₴51,858 ($1,206) for 5 years, and ₴64,758 ($1,506) for 10 years. Ukrainian nationals enjoy an excellent 94% visitor visa approval rate. Fees are paid in US Dollars at the current exchange rate of 1 USD = ₴43 UAH.
Can Ukrainians work in the UK?
Yes, Ukrainians can work in the UK through multiple routes. Those on Ukraine Schemes (Family Scheme, Homes for Ukraine, Extension Scheme) have automatic work rights at no additional cost. For other Ukrainians, work visas like the Skilled Worker visa (₴43,903/$1,021 for up to 3 years) or Health and Care Worker visa (₴17,329/$403) are available with a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
Do Ukrainians need a visa for the UK?
Yes, Ukrainian passport holders require a visa to enter the UK. However, special fee-free Ukraine Schemes are available for those displaced by the 2022 Russian invasion. The standard 6-month visitor visa costs ₴7,783 ($181) with an excellent 94% approval rate. Ukrainians with dual citizenship from visa-exempt countries can use that passport instead.
What is the UK visa success rate for Ukrainians?
Ukrainian nationals enjoy an excellent 94% visitor visa approval rate (year ending September 2025) — one of the highest globally. Out of 47,543 applications, only 2,636 were refused. Ukraine is classified as a low-risk nationality alongside South Africa (96%), Russia (92%), and China (91%), reflecting strong documentation standards and established travel patterns.