Overview
- Home Office data analysed by The Telegraph shows about 3,464 visas went to non‑Ukrainian nationals under the Ukraine family and sponsorship routes, roughly one in 80 of 279,223 grants.
- Russians accounted for the largest share at 588, followed by Nigerians at 408 and Afghans at 294, with other recipients including Iraqis, Moldovans, Turks, Indians, Belarusians, Iranians and Egyptians.
- A UK court ruling last year allowed a Palestinian family fleeing Gaza to use the scheme, a decision now cited in coverage of who has qualified.
- The Home Office says the schemes were created after Russia’s 2022 invasion, remain temporary, do not lead to settlement and allow non‑Ukrainians only as part of an immediate Ukrainian family group applying together.
- Criticism has followed the new totals, with Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp and Reform UK’s Zia Yusuf arguing the routes are being used beyond their intent.