Urgent Update – Changes to Long Residence Rules for those under Ukraine Schemes

The Home Office has announced important changes to the Immigration Rules concerning the Long Residence route, with these amendments set to take effect from the 18^th of December 2024. These changes, outlined in the Statement of Changes (HC 334), mark a significant development in the treatment of time spent in the UK under certain visa schemes. 

A key element of the updated rules is the explicit exclusion of time spent under the Ukraine Schemes from the qualifying period for Long Residence applications. From the 18^th of December 2024, individuals who have resided in the UK under these schemes will no longer be able to include this period when calculating their 10 years of continuous lawful residence required for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) on the Long Residence route. This change formalises a policy already in place and reflects the government’s stance that permissions granted under the Ukraine Schemes are not intended to provide a direct pathway to settlement.

The implications of these changes are substantial for potential applicants. Those who were relying on time spent under the Ukraine Schemes to meet the residence requirements may no longer qualify for an Indefinite Leave to Remain after the 18^th of December 2024. We strongly encourage individuals affected by this change to act promptly to review their circumstances and, if eligible, submit their applications under the current rules before the 18^th of December 2024.