Youth Mobility Scheme Visa: Live and Work in the UK
What is the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa?
The Youth Mobility Scheme visa allows young people from eligible countries to live and work in the UK for up to two years. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals aged 18 to 30 (or 18 to 35 for certain countries) to experience life in the UK while working or studying. To apply, you must have £2,530 in savings and meet the eligibility requirements.
How Long Does the Application Process Take?
You can apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa up to six months before your intended travel date. After submitting your application and proving your identity, most applicants receive a decision within three weeks.
Eligibility for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you are aged:
- 18 to 35 and from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or South Korea
- 18 to 30 and from Andorra, Iceland, Japan, Monaco, San Marino, or Uruguay
- 18 to 30 and have a British overseas nationality
- 18 to 30 and from Hong Kong or Taiwan (must be selected via a ballot system)
Who Cannot Apply?
You cannot apply if:
- You have children under 18 who live with you or whom you financially support
- You have previously been on the Youth Mobility Scheme
- You do not meet the financial requirement of £2,530 in savings
📌 Indian nationals must apply under the separate India Young Professionals Scheme.
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa Vs. India Young Professionals Scheme Visa
| Feature | Youth Mobility Scheme Visa | India Young Professionals Scheme Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | 18 to 30 years old; citizens of participating countries. | 18 to 30 years old; Indian citizens. |
| Financial Requirement | At least £2,530 in savings. | At least £2,530 in savings. |
| Application Process | Apply online; biometric appointment; decision in up to 8 weeks. | Enter annual ballot; if selected, apply online; biometric appointment; decision in up to 8 weeks. |
| Duration | Up to 2 years. | Up to 2 years. |
| Visa Fees | £298. | £298. |
| Official Source | Youth Mobility Scheme visa – OV.UK | India Young Professionals Scheme visa – GOV.UK |
Costs and Financial Requirements
How Much Does the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa Cost?
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | £298 |
| Healthcare Surcharge | £776 per year |
| Required Savings | £2,530 |
💡 Tip: Your bank balance must show the full £2,530 for at least 28 days in a row before you apply.
How to Apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
Documents Required
When applying, you need:
- A valid passport
- A bank statement proving you have £2,530 in savings
- A tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if applicable)
- Any additional documents based on your nationality (e.g., police certificates for some applicants)
Application Process
- Apply online from outside the UK.
- Prove your identity via the UK Immigration app or at a visa application centre.
- Submit documents and pay fees.
- Receive a decision within 3 weeks.
📌 Some applicants may be eligible for priority processing for faster decisions.
What You Can and Cannot Do on a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
✅ You can:
- Work in most jobs
- Be self-employed, provided you meet the conditions
- Study (some courses may require additional approval)
- Travel in and out of the UK while your visa is valid
❌ You cannot:
- Work as a professional sportsperson
- Apply for public funds (benefits)
- Bring dependents – your family members must apply separately
- Extend your visa unless you’re from Australia, Canada, or New Zealand
Extending Your Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
If you’re from Australia, Canada, or New Zealand, you can extend your visa by one year.
Extension Requirements
- You must still be living in the UK
- You cannot have extended before
- You must pay:
- £298 application fee
- £776 healthcare surcharge
⏳ Processing time: 8 weeks
📌 Apply at least 28 days before your visa expires to avoid issues.
Read This: How to Apply for a UK Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide
Apply for Your Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
🔹 Start your application online: UK Government Website
This visa is a fantastic opportunity for young people to experience life in the UK while working and exploring. Make sure you meet the requirements and apply early!
Source / Ref.: Gov.uk Contains public sector information licensed under OGL v3.0.
