The Youth Mobility Scheme, often called the Youth Mobility Visa, allows young people aged between 18 to 30 (or 18 to 35 for selected countries) from a list of countries to live and work in the UK for a limited time, combining cultural exchange and work experience. It’s a temporary visa, not a route to settlement.
Eligibility requirements
You may be eligible to apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa if you meet all of the following criteria:
– Be aged 18 to 30 at time of application (18 to 35 for Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea).
– Hold citizenship of a participating country/territory on the approved list.
– Show a specified level of personal savings held for 28 consecutive days ending no more than 31 days before application.
– Have no dependent children under 18 living with you or financially dependent on you.
– For Hong Kong (SAR) and Taiwan applicants in particular, there is a ballot process that you must successfully complete.
Duration of stay
The Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is granted for up to 2 years from the date of approval. Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand nationals can extend once for one additional year (total 3 years maximum). This visa cannot be extended beyond these limits and offers no direct settlement route. You may switch to other eligible categories (Skilled Worker, etc.) if requirements met.
Work rights
On a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, you can take most types of paid employment (full-time or part-time) with any employer, except as a professional sportsperson or coach. Self-employment/business is permitted under strict conditions that you work from rented premises only, with equipment valued under £5,000, and no employees. You are not permitted access to benefits or public funds.
FAQs
How do I apply for the Youth Mobility Visa?
Apply online via the UK Government website. You will need to: prove your identity, submit financial evidence, and pay the visa fee plus the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Who needs to use the ballot to apply?
If you’re from Hong Kong (SAR passport) or Taiwan, you must enter a ballot before applying. Other eligible countries can apply anytime without a ballot.
Can I extend the visa?
Yes—only if you’re from Australia, Canada, or New Zealand. Extension is for 1 additional year and must be applied for before expiry.
Can I switch to a different visa type?
Yes. The Youth Mobility Visa does not usually lead to settlement, but you can switch to other visa types (e.g., Skilled Worker) if eligible.
Can I work for any company or be self-employed?
Yes. You can work most jobs (except as a professional sportsperson). You can also be self-employed or start a small business if you meet limits.
Is there a financial requirement?
Yes—you must have at least £2,530 in your bank account for 28 days.
Can I bring family with me?
No. Dependants must apply separately; they cannot be added to your Youth Mobility Visa.
What happens when my visa expires?
If you’re Australian, Canadian or New Zealander, you can apply for a 1-year extension. Otherwise, you must switch to another visa or leave the UK.
Can I apply for the Youth Mobility Visa again?
No. You can only get this visa once in your lifetime.
What is the age requirement?
You must be 18-30 years old at time of application (18-35 for Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea).
Do I need English language or TB testing?
No English test required. TB test needed only from high-risk countries.
What countries are eligible?
Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Hong Kong (SAR), Taiwan, South Korea, plus European countries including France, Germany, Italy, Spain.
How We Can Help
We provide comprehensive support to secure your Youth Mobility Scheme Visa with confidence. Our services includes assessing your eligibility and nationality to confirm qualification under the scheme, preparing your application with all required evidence (financial, identity, TB, etc.), guidance on the ballot process for countries with quota systems (e.g., Australia, Canada) and advice on maintenance funds and supporting documents.
We can also provide support for dependants, where permitted, and in-country compliance and guiding on next steps including switching to other work visa routes. With our in-depth knowledge of UK immigration rules and Youth Mobility requirements, we streamline your application for the best chance of success while minimising delays.