How USPUK Helped Reunite a Ukrainian Family Blocked by Visa Delays

When months of waiting kept a family apart, a mother refused to give up on her daughter

“For over months, we waited without answers. Our adopted daughter was still in Ukraine, and every day apart felt unbearable. Despite escalations and calls, her visa didn’t move. But with USPUK’s help, we reapplied under a new route — and this time, it worked. I travelled back to Ukraine to bring her home. Now, we’re finally together in the UK.”

A couple have been trying to bring their adopted daughter to the UK under the Ukraine visa scheme. Despite waiting for over two months, girl’s visa has been delayed. Her parents have faced difficulties with the process, even after multiple escalations by their host family and personal calls to authorities. UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) has stated that the case is complex due to the adoption situation and is still under consideration, with no clear resolution in sight.

Throughout this period, this couple has been in touch with the USPUK charity (Universal Sponsorship Pathway), which is assisting them with their visa case. Despite the lack of progress, they remain hopeful that their situation will eventually be resolved, with a strong desire to ensure the girl's safety and reunite their family in the UK.

Nothing had changed for months — the UKVI was delaying the review process due to the adoption circumstances, forming committees, but the girl was not being granted a visa. In January, a new program for the reunification of children with their parents or guardians came into effect, so the family submitted a new visa application with the mother as the sponsor. USPUK immediately informed MHCLG about the new application. This time, the visa was quickly approved by the UKVI.

The mother traveled to Ukraine to obtain a girl's visa and finally go to the UK and stay with the whole family.

USPUK provided significant support throughout the visa application process and helped facilitate the resolution of the issue. Here's a breakdown of how we assisted:

Identifying and Addressing the Delay

USPUK first reached out to the couple when we noticed the issue with their visa registration form and offered help in escalating the matter. We recognised the prolonged delay in processing their adopted daughter's visa and took it seriously, offering to step in and help resolve it. Throughout the communication, we provided detailed guidance on how to proceed, which likely helped clarify the steps that could be taken to move the case forward.

Escalating the Issue

USPUK team helped to escalate their case. We made inquiries to the relevant authorities, including UKVI (UK Visa and Immigration), to clarify the reasons behind the delay, as we had experience with similar cases. This involvement likely pushed the authorities to give more attention to this case.

Providing Clarification on Legal Processes

USPUK helped ensure that the application followed the correct process. We clarified the application procedure, especially regarding Mother's role as a sponsor for the girl, which may have played a part in resolving the issue. We noticed an important detail in the previous communication about the sponsorship status and provided guidance on what might have gone wrong (e.g., the incorrect status selection during the application).

Emotional Support and Reassurance

Throughout the process, USPUK offered emotional support by staying in touch and encouraging applicants to stay positive, despite the setbacks. Our prompt responses and reassurances were likely a source of comfort during this stressful and uncertain period.

Successful Resolution

Ultimately, USPUK’s intervention led to the visa being issued. The team kept pushing UKVI for updates, and as a result, the girl’s visa was approved under the new application. Our efforts directly contributed to bringing the case to a successful resolution, and we celebrated family's victory with them.

Outcome

USPUK played a crucial role in helping the family navigate the complex and often frustrating visa application process. Our proactive engagement, expertise in dealing with UKVI, emotional support, and timely intervention were all essential in securing the approval of minor’s visa. Our dedication and persistence were key to getting this matter resolved and ensuring that the process moved forward.

You can make a difference

At USPUK, we support not only Ukrainian families on their journey to the UK but also the generous hosts who open their homes to them. From the moment they register on our website throughout their hosting experience, we are here to help.

If you’d like to help someone on their journey to a new beginning, consider becoming a host today. Visit our Become a Host page to learn more.