Ukrainian Refugees in UK Face Job and Housing Insecurity Amid Visa Extension Delays

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Ukrainian refugees in the UK are facing significant job losses and housing insecurity due to delays in the Home Office's visa extension process, which could leave some individuals with an eight-week gap in their right to work and reside in the country. As the extension window opens from February 4 to June, campaigners are expressing grave concerns about the impact of this non-automatic scheme, warning it has led to anxiety among many refugees, particularly women with children.

Simone Schehtman of Birmingham for Ukraine criticized the situation, stating that many Ukrainians want their time in the UK to count towards citizenship, which is not currently allowed for them. Prof. Sara Jones from the University of Birmingham noted that while most Ukrainians are expected to receive their visa renewals, the process remains uncertain and complex, causing further distress.

Ukrainian refugees are now reporting difficulties in renewing tenancy agreements due to landlords' demands for proof of visa status. Meanwhile, government officials emphasize their commitment to supporting refugees, claiming to have provided sanctuary to over 300,000 Ukrainians since the war began.

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