Overview
The Youth Mobility Scheme is a temporary visa designed for cultural exchange. It allows eligible young people to live and work in the UK for up to 24 months (or 36 months for select nationalities). You do not need a job offer to apply, and you have the freedom to change employers or study during your stay.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must be a national of a participating country or hold specific British nationality. You must meet the age requirements (18-30 for most, 18-35 for Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and South Korea) and have at least £2,530 in personal savings held for 28 consecutive days. You cannot have children under 18 living with you or for whom you are financially responsible, and you cannot have previously participated in the scheme.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Confirm you are from a participating country and meet the age and financial requirements.
- 2
Step 2: Enter Ballot (If Required)
If you are from a country with capped places (e.g., Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Japan), you may need to enter a ballot first.
- 3
Step 3: Apply Online
Complete the online application form and pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
- 4
Step 4: Provide Biometrics
Book and attend an appointment at a visa application center to provide your fingerprints and photo.
- 5
Step 5: Receive Decision
Wait for the decision, which typically takes 3 weeks, and collect your vignette or digital status.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- Proof of personal savings (£2,530)
- Tuberculosis test results (if required based on country of residence)
- Evidence of travel history (if requested)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
This visa does not lead directly to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain). However, you may be able to switch to a different visa route (such as the Skilled Worker visa) from within the UK if you meet the requirements for that route.
Family options
Dependents (spouse or children) are not eligible to join you on this visa route.
Language notes
No formal English language test is required for this visa.
After arrival
Once you arrive, you can begin working immediately. You should register for a National Insurance number to work and pay taxes, and register with a local GP for healthcare access.
Common pitfalls
- Failing to hold the required £2,530 in savings for the full 28-day period.
- Applying without checking if a ballot is required for your nationality.
- Including dependents in the application, which is not permitted.
FAQs about Youth Mobility Scheme visa
Who is the Youth Mobility Scheme visa for?+
Young adults aged 18-30 (or 18-35 for specific nationalities) from participating countries who wish to experience life in the UK.
What are the eligibility requirements for Youth Mobility Scheme visa?+
To qualify, you must be a national of a participating country or hold specific British nationality. You must meet the age requirements (18-30 for most, 18-35 for Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and South Korea) and have at least £2,530 in personal savings held for 28 consecutive days. You cannot have children under 18 living with you or for whom you are financially responsible, and you cannot have previously participated in the scheme.
How much does the Youth Mobility Scheme visa cost?+
Typical fees listed for Youth Mobility Scheme visa: £340 application fee, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (typically £776 per year).. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Youth Mobility Scheme visa processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically 3 weeks from the date of the biometric appointment..
How long can I stay on the Youth Mobility Scheme visa?+
Up to 2 years (or up to 3 years for Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand citizens).
Can I work on the Youth Mobility Scheme visa?+
Full work rights in most jobs, including self-employment and freelancing. Professional sportsperson or sports coach roles are restricted.
Does Youth Mobility Scheme visa lead to permanent residence in United Kingdom?+
This visa does not lead directly to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain). However, you may be able to switch to a different visa route (such as the Skilled Worker visa) from within the UK if you meet the requirements for that route.
What are common mistakes with Youth Mobility Scheme visa?+
Failing to hold the required £2,530 in savings for the full 28-day period. Applying without checking if a ballot is required for your nationality. Including dependents in the application, which is not permitted.