Submitted by Becky Morton, Political Reporter
Ukrainian migrants residing in the UK are facing challenges when it comes to securing job opportunities and housing due to uncertainties surrounding the length of their stay in the country. While they were initially granted a three-year right to live and work in the UK, with the option to apply for an 18-month extension, many are experiencing difficulties in finding stable employment or rental accommodations as their visas approach expiration.
Findings from a survey conducted among 1,133 Ukrainians in Britain revealed that 41% had missed out on job prospects due to visa uncertainties, with 26% reporting difficulties in renewing their tenancy agreements. Researchers from the University of Birmingham further noted that 22% of respondents had job contracts not renewed, and 24% struggled to secure new rental agreements.
Since the launch of the Homes for Ukraine initiative on March 14, 2022, a surge in arrivals was noted, with over 10,000 Ukrainians seeking refuge in the UK each week at its peak in May of the same year. Despite the provision of a three-year stay initially, many visas are nearing expiration, prompting concerns among Ukrainian residents regarding their ability to find stable employment and housing.
Individual testimonies from Ukrainian migrants such as Mila and Tatiana shed light on the challenges they face, with visa expiration affecting their job prospects and causing heightened anxiety about their future in the UK. While the government emphasizes its commitment to supporting Ukraine amid the conflict, uncertainties surrounding visa extensions continue to impact the lives of Ukrainian migrants seeking stability in the UK
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
