Information for guests

How do I find a sponsor for my Homes for Ukraine application?

We recommend using government-approved providers to find a suitable sponsor. You can find these providers on GOV.UK.

How can I find out the status of a visa application?

We are unable to assist with visa queries or provide updates on the status of visa applications, as these are managed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For visa status inquiries, please contact the UKVI helpline at 0808 164 8810, which is available 24/7. If you are unable to reach UK 0808 numbers, please use +44 (0)175 390 7510.

Why is the visa process taking so long?

The Home Office handles visa processing for guests, which runs concurrently with our checks on the sponsor and their property. Westminster City Council has no control over visa processing and cannot influence the duration of the process.

What will happen to my BRP card after 31 December 2024?

From December 31, 2024, BRP cards will no longer be valid and will be replaced by eVisas. You must register for a UKVI account on GOV.UK to access your eVisa.

To support a smooth transition to eVisas, the Home Office has announced that people with a BRP expiring on or after 31 December 2024 who still hold valid immigration status can continue using their BRP for international travel until 1 June 2025. However, if you have not done so already, you should still register for an eVisa as soon as possible.

Please do not dispose of your expired BRP cards, as these may be required for future reference.

The Home Office stopped issuing BRP cards in November 2024. After this date, you do not need to apply for a BRP; instead, you can access your eVisa through your UKVI account.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact UK Visas and Immigration.

Alternatively, please contact us, and we will do our best to support and signpost you.

Will my visa still be valid if I no longer live with my sponsor?

Yes, your visa remains valid until its expiry date, regardless of whether you continue living with your sponsor, move into private accommodation, or relocate abroad. You are also free to travel in and out of the UK while your visa is valid.

How can I open a bank account without proof of address?

Proof of address typically includes an official letter showing your name and current address (for example, from the government or a utility company). If you do not have proof of address, some banks may allow your host to verify where you live by bringing their ID and proof of address. Check the website of your chosen bank for acceptable documentation before applying. Further information can also be found on GOV.UK.

Do I have to stay with my sponsor for six months?

We strongly encourage you to stay with your sponsor for as long as possible, as finding affordable private accommodation can be challenging in the current housing market.

However, you are not required to stay with your sponsor for six months. You can move to private accommodation at any time, even during the initial six-month period, provided you can afford it and have secured another place to live.

If you have any questions or significant concerns about your sponsorship arrangement, please contact us as soon as possible.

Additionally, if you do decide to move, you must inform us so we can update our records accordingly.

When can I apply to UPE?

You should only make an application when your current permission has 28 days or less remaining until it expires. If you apply too early, your application may be rejected and not considered. If this happens, you will need to reapply when your current permission has 28 days or less remaining until it expires. For more information on applying to the UPE scheme visit GOV.UK.

What if my current permission expires before a decision is made on my application?

You do not need to take any action, as your current permission will continue under section 3C leave, if you have applied to UPE before your Homes for Ukraine visa expires. Your eVisa will show the start date of your previous permission and the date that it expired. There will be some additional information underneath your National Insurance number that will confirm that you are able to stay in the UK until a decision has been made on your application and that you retain the same rights as your original permission. Please do not leave the UK before a decision is made on your application. For further information on the UPE scheme please visit GOV.UK.

For more information or support, please contact us.