The Youth Mobility Scheme visa is designed for young people aged 18 to 30 who want to live, work, and travel in the UK for up to 2 years. It's aimed at fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the UK and participating countries and territories. This visa route does not require a job offer or sponsorship to apply. However, applicants must be from a country that has an agreement with the UK or be a British Overseas Citizen, British Overseas Territories Citizen, or a British National (Overseas). The scheme allows holders to undertake most types of employment during their stay, with some restrictions, and to enter and exit the UK multiple times.
Other Routes
The Youth Mobility Scheme visa is designed for young people aged 18 to 30 who want to live, work, and travel in the UK for up to 2 years. It's aimed at fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the UK and participating countries and territories. This visa route does not require a job offer or sponsorship to apply. However, applicants must be from a country that has an agreement with the UK or be a British Overseas Citizen, British Overseas Territories Citizen, or a British National (Overseas). The scheme allows holders to undertake most types of employment during their stay, with some restrictions, and to enter and exit the UK multiple times.
Applicants must be aged between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application. This means you must have turned 18 but not yet turned 31 on the date of your application. This age range is strictly enforced, and applications from individuals outside this range will be automatically rejected.
Applicants must be nationals of a participating country or territory, or hold British Overseas Citizen, British Overseas Territories Citizen, or British National (Overseas) status. Each participating country has a set number of places available each year, and some require a ballot system.
Applicants cannot have previously entered the UK under the Youth Mobility Scheme or the former working holidaymaker visa. This is to ensure the opportunity is available to as many young people as possible.
Applicants cannot apply if they have children under 18 who live with them or for whom they are financially responsible. This requirement ensures that applicants can fully engage in the scheme without additional dependents.
Applicants must provide a valid passport or other travel document as proof of identity and nationality. The passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the UK.
If you are from a country where tuberculosis (TB) testing is required, you must provide a certificate showing you are free from TB. This test must be conducted at a clinic approved by the Home Office.
Applicants must provide evidence of having at least £2,530 in savings. This is to demonstrate that you can support yourself financially upon arrival in the UK. The funds must be held in your account for at least 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before your application.
Applicants must have access to £2,530 in personal savings to support themselves upon arrival in the UK. This requirement ensures that applicants can cover their initial expenses without needing public funds.
Applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their application. This grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay. The surcharge is calculated based on the length of the visa.
Applicants must not have a criminal record that would make them ineligible for entry to the UK. This includes serious offenses and any history of immigration violations. A police certificate may be required as part of the application process.
Applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee of £259. This fee is required to process your application and is payable online during the application process.
Disclaimer: We are not immigration advisors. For professional immigration advice, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or OISC-registered advisor.
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