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Youth Mobility Scheme visa
Live and work in the UK for up to two years through a flexible visa route for young people from eligible countries, with no sponsorship required.
What is a Youth Mobility Scheme visa?
A Youth Mobility Scheme is for young people (generally aged 18-30) from participating countries and territories, to come and experience life in the UK for up to two years.
How long can I stay in the UK on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa?
A Youth Mobility Scheme visa is typically valid for up to 24 months (except for citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand, who may apply to remain in the UK for an additional 12 months). Holders of a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa generally cannot extend their visa past the maximum 24-month period.
What are the main eligibility requirements?
If you are aged 18–35 and a citizen of Australia, Canada, New Zealand or South Korea, you may apply directly for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa. If you are aged 18–30 and a citizen of Andorra, Iceland, Japan, Monaco, San Marino or Uruguay, you may also apply directly. Applicants from Hong Kong who hold an SAR passport and applicants from Taiwan must first be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot. You may also apply if you are aged 18–30 and are a British overseas citizen, British overseas territories citizen or British national (overseas).
Indian citizens cannot apply under the standard Youth Mobility Scheme. Indian citizens aged 18–30 may instead be eligible for the separate India Young Professionals Scheme. Applicants must hold a qualification at bachelor’s degree level or above, or an equivalent overseas qualification, and must first be selected through the India Young Professionals Scheme ballot.
To apply for either visa, you must have at least £2,530 in your bank account to demonstrate that you can support yourself in the UK.
It is not possible to apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme if you have dependent children under 18 who live with you, children you are financially responsible for, or if you have already been in the UK under the scheme. India Young Professionals Scheme applicants cannot apply if they have previously been in the UK under either scheme. If granted either visa, it is not possible to include dependent family members in your application.
We’re here to help you
When it comes to obtaining reliable legal advice, Seraphus is your dedicated source of expert guidance.
We specialise in providing personalised support to help you navigate the complexities of the application process, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Contact us today using the contact us form.
Youth Mobility Scheme visa FAQs
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Do I need a job offer or sponsor to apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa?
No. You do not need a job offer or employer sponsorship to apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa. If your application is successful, you can work in most jobs during your stay.
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Can I extend a Youth Mobility Scheme visa?
Citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand can apply to extend their visa for one additional year. Other Youth Mobility Scheme visa holders cannot extend their stay under this route.
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Can I include my family in my application?
No. You cannot include family members in your application. They would need to qualify and apply for a UK visa separately.
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