Portsmouth has welcomed many families under the visa schemes for Ukrainian refugees. On this page you will find out more about those schemes, how you can offer to host refugees and important information for hosts and guests.
Family visa scheme
The family visa scheme allows applicants to join family members in the UK. As part of this scheme, you have signed up to house and support your family member/s during their time in the UK. Under this scheme there is no entitlement to any interim or thank you payment. Your Ukrainian family member/s are able to work and study in the UK and have access to public funds. If your family members have arrived to stay with you in the UK and you require advice on support that may be available, please email ukrainesupport@portsmouthcc.gov.uk.
Homes for Ukraine scheme
The Homes for Ukraine scheme offers a home in the UK to people fleeing Ukraine, where a local resident will become their sponsor. For more information on being a sponsor, including responsibilities, checks and how you can support your guests, or to register your interest please visit Homes for Ukraine: record your interest.
Portsmouth City Council will be offering support to sponsors and guests who have registered under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, and you will be contacted once your application has been received.
Once your Ukrainian guests have arrived, please inform Portsmouth City Council by emailing ukrainesupport@portsmouthcc.gov.uk and, assuming there are no issues, a support worker will make contact within one working day.
Ukrainian guests arriving at Portsmouth International Port
If you are collecting a guest from Portsmouth International Port, free complimentary parking is offered in our multi-storey. Just make sure that you don’t pay in advance and head to the security desk on arrival where you’ll be asked for your car registration. For details on how to reach the port visit the port website.
If travelling on foot, Ukrainians will be supported to reach a train or bus terminal from the port where they will receive free onward travel.
