‘We are enabling Ukrainian nationals already in the UK to convert to a points-based immigration path or a family visa route for free.’
However, the Home Secretary has ruled out granting a visa waiver to Ukrainians fleeing the crisis, citing concerns that Russian troops and radicals may attempt to enter the UK.
‘Through this extension alone, an additional 100,000 Ukrainians will be able to seek asylum in the UK, with access to work and public services,’ she said.
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‘In several industries, we are extending visas for (Ukraine) temporary employees, and they can now stay until at least December 2022.’
Ms Patel, on the other hand, rebuffed proposals to abolish the visa requirement, arguing that she was following the’strongest security advice’ on the subject.
‘I saw members of this House pushing for full visa waivers for all Ukrainians over the weekend,’ she remarked.
‘Security and biometric inspections are an important component of our visa clearance process around the world, and they will continue to be so, just as they were during the evacuation of Afghans.’
The move follows criticism of the government’s stance on Ukrainians fleeing the crisis, which began on Thursday when Russia invaded.
After receiving widespread criticism over the weekend, ministers announced the modification of visa regulations for immediate family members of Ukrainians living in the UK.
But Labour called for ministers to immediately extend the opportunity to wider relatives before setting out a ‘broader sanctuary route’ to help other Ukrainians.
The UK has also faced major criticism over its handling of the refugee crisis from Afghanistan – and widespread claims that it is not doing enough and has failed to live up to its promises to people there.
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