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After You're Here

Essentials upon arrival

This section provides you with guidance on key steps to be taken upon your arrival in the UK. The link below if the official guide by the British government:
Once you arrive, you must complete these key steps:
Submit your Biometric information within the first 6 months after arrival to the UK. If you arrived in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, book your appointment to submit your Biometric information.
Apply for a National Insurance number. A National Insurance (NI) number is used to make sure your National Insurance contributions and tax are recorded against your name only.
Open a bank account in the UK.
Get a UK number and a SIM card
Register at the GP Surgery.
Application for free travel in London for over 66 year olds.
For information about renting - click the link below.
Links for 'Rightmove' - UK's largest online real estate portal, and 'Spareroom' - Flatshare finder.
Notify Your Sponsor: Inform your sponsor of your arrival details and coordinate meeting arrangements. Travel Assistance: Upon arrival, Ukrainian nationals can access the Ukrainian Displaced Persons Travel Scheme, offering free rail travel across England, Scotland, and Wales within 48 hours of arrival.
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Long-term living

Providing Support and Hope
Scholars at Risk - help for students.
  1. Immigration and Documentation
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): If you entered the UK with a six-month entry stamp, you must apply to extend your stay within six months to continue living and working in the UK. This involves providing biometric information and will grant you a BRP valid for up to three years.
  1. Initial Financial Support
Arrival Payment: You are entitled to a one-off £200 payment to help with initial expenses. This is provided by your local council. Northwestrsmp
  1. Accessing Public Services
Healthcare: Register with a General Practitioner (GP) to access NHS services. Education: Apply for school placements through your local council. National Insurance Number: Apply for a National Insurance number, which is necessary for employment and accessing certain benefits.
  1. Housing
Homes for Ukraine Scheme: If you're staying with a sponsor, ensure the accommodation is suitable and meets the scheme's requirements. Alternative Housing Support: If you face housing issues, contact your local authority for assistance. Organizations like the British Red Cross and Shelter can also provide support.
East European Resource Centre - Eastern European refugee and settlement information
London Plus - List of Ukraine charities and community support groups in London
The UK Government has published revised guidance on renting private accommodation for Ukrainians who came to the UK on Homes for Ukraine scheme. In particular, the information on the proportion of Council Tax guests from Ukraine are liable to pay was added. If you, and everyone else in your household (rented accommodation), received a visa through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, you will need to pay 50% of the overall Council Tax bill. Please find a template letter to approach councils with to get this discount:
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