London skyline with the River Thames
Special schemes

UK special visa schemes: eligibility and steps

Time-limited or humanitarian routes can change. Always confirm current availability on the official site.

Explore routes Build a BNO checklist
Route fees Route questions Guidance by stage
Availability Confirm that the scheme is open and currently accepting applications.
Eligibility Check route windows, nationality links, and status requirements.
Evidence Prepare route-specific identity and supporting documents early.

Special scheme flow

01
Check route status first

Some schemes are time-limited, closed, or limited to legacy cases.

02
Validate exact eligibility

Confirm nationality, status, and route-specific gateway requirements.

03
Prepare complete evidence

Submit with route-specific documents and current published requirements.

Rules change often. We refresh this guide when published updates are released, but always confirm requirements on the official page before you apply.
BNO pathway For eligible British National (Overseas) status holders and family members.
Humanitarian schemes Routes with special policy rules and changing eligibility windows.
Legacy categories Former routes where only existing or legacy cases can continue.
Special permissions Niche categories with route-specific evidence requirements.

Special schemes overview

Special schemes cover time-limited or humanitarian routes. Availability can change, so check the official site before you apply.

Eligibility windows

Some schemes open and close based on policy changes.

Evidence

Prepare proof of relationship, residency, or sponsorship.

Next steps

Check if extensions or future routes are available.

Current special schemes

Review each scheme for eligibility and current availability.

Special scheme step-by-step guidance

Use these route steps to confirm availability, eligibility, and evidence for humanitarian routes.

Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme

  1. Confirm the scheme is open for your circumstances.
  2. Verify sponsor and accommodation arrangements.
  3. Prepare identity and relationship/hosting evidence.
  4. Submit the route application and keep sponsor records ready.

Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme

  1. Check your current permission and extension eligibility.
  2. Confirm application timing before permission expiry.
  3. Prepare identity, residence, and status records.
  4. Apply and keep confirmation documents for continuity.