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Youth Mobility Scheme Visa (YMS)
The UK Youth Mobility Scheme allows eligible young adults to live, work, and study in the UK for up to two years, or three years if they are from Australia, Canada, or New Zealand. Our SRA-regulated immigration solicitors guide you through eligibility, ballot rules and Home Office requirements for a smooth, stress-free application.
For detailed assistance, you can call at 020 3384 4389 or Start Your Free Youth Mobility Visa Assessment
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Struggling With a Complex Youth Mobility Scheme Process? Get Help Now
No more confusion or wasted time. Tell us about your case, and we’ll provide an expert-backed, realistic plan to secure your UK visa.
The Youth Mobility Scheme visa allows young people from participating countries to live and work in the UK for up to two years, or three years for citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand. It is designed to promote cultural exchange and provide an international experience.
With this visa, you can work, undertake limited study, and be self-employed, subject to specific UKVI conditions and restrictions. While this visa does not lead directly to settlement, you may be able to switch to another visa route, such as a Skilled Worker or Student visa, provided you meet the relevant eligibility and in-country switching requirements.
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa at a Glance
Eligibility & Age Range
Open to young adults aged 18 to 30 from eligible countries, and aged 18 to 35 for nationals of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Korea, allowing temporary work and travel in the UK.
Duration of Stay
The visa is granted for two years for most participants and for three years for citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand under the expanded scheme.
No Sponsorship Required
You do not need a job offer or licensed sponsor. You can work in most roles, be self-employed within UKVI limits, or undertake limited study during your stay in the UK.
Financial Proof Needed
You must show at least £2,530 held for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the date of your application, to meet Home Office financial requirements.
When applying for a Marriage Visitor Visa, you do not need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. This visa is for a short, single stay and does not grant access to the UK’s public healthcare system.
Pay a £319 application fee plus an Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 per year for access to the NHS throughout your stay.
When applying for a Spouse visa, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge to cover your healthcare costs while in the UK. Since February 2024, the surcharge has been £1,035 per year, following a 86% increase. For in-country application, it will be for 30 months and out-country application, it will be for 33 months.
Citizens of most partner countries can apply directly. Applicants from Hong Kong and Taiwan must first be selected through the Home Office ballot system.
The Marriage Visitor Visa allows for a single stay of up to 6 months. This visa cannot be extended, and you must leave the UK at the end of this period.
The scheme does not permit dependants and does not lead directly to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), although you may be able to switch to a different visa route before your permission expires.
This visa allows you to get married or register a civil partnership, but you cannot work, study, or live in the UK. You must use this visa solely to visit and get married.
You can travel in and out of the UK while your visa is valid and may later progress to routes such as the Skilled Worker visa or other long-term immigration categories, subject to eligibility.
Let Us Confirm Your Eligibility Before You Apply
Youth Mobility Scheme applications are often refused due to issues such as ballot timing, age eligibility errors, or incomplete financial evidence. Our SRA-regulated immigration solicitors review eligibility requirements, country-specific rules, and financial evidence, helping you submit an application that aligns with UKVI requirements and reduces avoidable risk.
Benefits
Advantages of Hiring UK Immigration Solicitors
Working with experienced UK immigration solicitors can help you navigate Home Office requirements with clarity and confidence. Our SRA-regulated team provides structured guidance on the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, supporting you to prepare and submit an application that meets UKVI requirements.
97.37%
Success Rate
37,573
Applications Approved
93.7%
Immigration Appeal Win Rate
4.9/5
Average Rating
From Consultation to Visa Approval
Our immigration specialists streamline your application process by clearly identifying which evidence and strategies will strengthen your case.
By aligning your unique circumstances with Home Office requirements, we help you focus on high-impact preparations while addressing any potential weaknesses in your application.
From Consultation to Visa Approval
Our immigration specialists streamline your application process by clearly identifying which evidence and strategies will strengthen your case.
By aligning your unique circumstances with Home Office requirements, we help you focus on high-impact preparations while addressing any potential weaknesses in your application.
Maximising Your Approval Chances
Our goal is to maximise the chances of your visa being approved the first time. By carefully reviewing your circumstances, identifying potential weaknesses, and preparing strong supporting evidence, we significantly reduce the risk of refusals. Every application is checked by senior immigration solicitors who apply their expertise to make your case as clear, accurate, and persuasive as possible. This attention to detail is what improves success rates and helps our clients move forward with confidence.
Success Rate Optimisation
We carefully analyse every detail of your application to maximise the chances of approval. By addressing weaknesses, strengthening supporting evidence, and ensuring full compliance with Home Office rules, we optimise your case for success. This thorough approach significantly improves approval rates and gives you confidence throughout the process.
Risk Mitigation Strategies
We identify potential risks in your application early and put safeguards in place to address them. By preparing strong evidence, clarifying complex points, and anticipating Home Office concerns, we minimise the chance of delays or refusals.
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Evidence-based case preparation
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Home Office compliance checks
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Success rate optimisation
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Risk mitigation strategies
From Consultation to Visa Approval
Our immigration specialists streamline your application process by clearly identifying which evidence and strategies will strengthen your case.
By aligning your unique circumstances with Home Office requirements, we help you focus on high-impact preparations while addressing any potential weaknesses in your application.
Maximising Your Approval Chances
Our goal is to maximise the chances of your visa being approved the first time. By carefully reviewing your circumstances, identifying potential weaknesses, and preparing strong supporting evidence, we significantly reduce the risk of refusals. Every application is checked by senior immigration solicitors who apply their expertise to make your case as clear, accurate, and persuasive as possible. This attention to detail is what improves success rates and helps our clients move forward with confidence.
Success Rate Optimisation
We carefully analyse every detail of your application to maximise the chances of approval. By addressing weaknesses, strengthening supporting evidence, and ensuring full compliance with Home Office rules, we optimise your case for success. This thorough approach significantly improves approval rates and gives you confidence throughout the process.
Risk Mitigation Strategies
We identify potential risks in your application early and put safeguards in place to address them. By preparing strong evidence, clarifying complex points, and anticipating Home Office concerns, we minimise the chance of delays or refusals.
Work With Trusted, SRA-Regulated UK Immigration Experts
Your immigration journey is too important to risk on unqualified or unregulated help. Every case we handle is prepared by SRA-regulated solicitors who apply structured legal reasoning, precise documentation checks and full compliance with Home Office and UKVI rules.
Our accreditations are your assurance that you are working with a reputable, experienced and highly trained legal team. We combine decades of immigration expertise with strict professional standards to give you clarity, confidence and complete peace of mind — no matter which visa or application route you are pursuing.
How Many Applicants can be Accepted on to the tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme?
The Youth Mobility Scheme visa operates with annual country-specific quotas, which limit the number of places available to eligible applicants from each participating country. These quotas are set by the Home Office and may be reviewed or adjusted periodically.
At present, the following countries have an annual allocation of places under the Youth Mobility Scheme:
- Australia – 30,000 places
- New Zealand – 13,000 places
- Canada – 6,000 places
- Japan – 1,500 places
- Iceland – 1,000 places
- Monaco – 1,000 places
- San Marino – 1,000 places
- Republic of Korea – 1,000 places
For some nationalities, places are allocated through a ballot system rather than direct application. Applicants from the following countries must first be selected in a Home Office ballot before they can apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa:
- Hong Kong – 1,000 places
- Taiwan – 1,000 places
British Nationals (Overseas), British Overseas Citizens, and British Overseas Territories Citizens who meet the eligibility requirements are not subject to an annual quota but must still satisfy all other Youth Mobility Scheme criteria.
UK Youth Mobility Scheme Visa Countries
The following countries are currently eligible under the UK Youth Mobility Scheme visa, subject to annual allocations set by the Home Office:
- Australia (30,000 places)
- Canada (6,000 places)
- Monaco (1,000 places)
- Iceland (1,000 places)
- New Zealand (13,000 places)
- San Marino (1,000 places)
Applicants from some participating countries must apply through a ballot process before submitting a visa application. The following nationalities are currently subject to a ballot:
- Hong Kong (1,000 places)
- Taiwan (1,000 places)
In addition, certain British nationality holders living outside the UK may be eligible to apply under the Youth Mobility Scheme. This includes:
- British National (Overseas)
- British Overseas Citizen
- British Overseas Territories Citizen
Applicants under these nationality categories must still meet all other eligibility requirements set out in the Immigration Rules.
Indian Youth Mobility Scheme visa
Under the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, an applicant must meet all eligibility requirements set out in the Immigration Rules. In addition to nationality and age criteria, an application will not be valid if any of the following apply:
- You have children under the age of eighteen who live with you or who are financially dependent on you.
- You have previously held permission under the Youth Mobility Scheme.
These restrictions apply regardless of nationality and are assessed at the time of application.
What are the Requirements for a Youth Mobility Visa for UK?
You may be eligible for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa if you meet all of the following requirements at the date of application:
- You are aged 18 to 30, or aged 18 to 35 if you are a national of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or South Korea.
- You are a citizen of a participating country, or hold a qualifying British nationality status recognised under the scheme.
- You have at least £2,530 in personal savings to support yourself in the UK. The funds must have been held for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the date of your application.
- You do not have children under the age of eighteen who live with you or who are financially dependent on you.
- You have not previously held a Youth Mobility Scheme visa.
- You meet the tuberculosis (TB) testing requirement if this applies to your country of residence.
- You meet the suitability and security requirements, including not posing a risk to public safety.
Country-Specific Requirements for Youth Mobility Visa UK
Under the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, all applicants must apply for and receive entry clearance before travelling to the UK. In addition to the general eligibility requirements, some nationalities must meet specific country-based conditions.
- Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Monaco, and the Republic of Korea
Applicants from these countries do not have additional documentary requirements beyond meeting the standard Youth Mobility Scheme criteria. - Hong Kong and Taiwan
Applicants must first receive an invitation to apply through the Home Office ballot and must submit their visa application within the timeframe stated in the invitation. - San Marino
Applicants must provide a letter confirming citizenship or legal status, issued by the Directorate of Political and Diplomatic Affairs in the Republic of San Marino. The letter must have been issued no more than six months before the date of application. - Iceland
Applicants must provide a criminal record certificate for private use, issued no more than six months before the application date. - Andorra
Applicants are required to provide a criminal record certificate, issued no more than six months before the date of application. - Uruguay
Applicants must provide a certificate of judicial records, issued no more than six months before the application date.
These country-specific requirements are assessed alongside the general eligibility criteria and must be met in full for an application to be valid.
It is required that all nationals, citizens, and lawful passport holders of Andorra present a certificate of criminal records that was issued no more than six months before the application date.
If you were born in Uruguay or have a passport that is valid for travel there, you must show a Certificate of Judicial Records that was given no more than six months before the application date.
Supporting Documents for Youth Mobility Visa for UK
When applying for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa, you will be required to provide specific documents to support your application. The Home Office will confirm exactly which documents are needed based on your nationality and circumstances. In most cases, you will need to provide:
- A valid passport or other travel document, with at least one blank page, to confirm your identity and nationality.
- Evidence of personal savings showing at least £2,530, held for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the date of application.
- A tuberculosis (TB) test certificate, if this is required for your country of residence.
- Certified translations of any documents that are not in English or Welsh.
Depending on your nationality or individual circumstances, you may be asked to provide additional documents, such as criminal record certificates or country-specific confirmation letters. You will be informed of any further requirements during the application process.
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa UK Cost
To apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa, you must pay the following fees at the time of application:
- An application fee of £319.
- An Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 per year, which allows access to the National Health Service during your stay in the UK.
There is no separate fee for a Biometric Residence Permit, as physical BRPs are being replaced by digital immigration status (eVisa).
What is the Duration of a Tier 5 Youth Mobility Visa?
If your application for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa is accepted, you will be able to come to the UK and stay there for up to two years.
You can come and go from the UK at any time during this time. As long as your visa is still valid, you can stay in the UK after you turn 31.
If you are an Australian, Canadian, or New Zealand citizen, you may request an extension of stay of up to one year before your initial two-year Youth Mobility Scheme visa ends.
How to Apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
Most applicants receive a decision on their Youth Mobility Scheme visa within around three weeks, although processing times can vary depending on where you apply and whether additional checks are required.
To apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa, you must complete the following steps:
- Complete the online application form on GOV.UK.
- Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge as part of the online process.
Verify your identity by either:
- Attending an appointment at a visa application centre to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
- Using the UK Immigration: ID Check app, where this option is available.
- Upload or submit supporting documents as instructed during your application.
Applications Through a Ballot System
For nationalities subject to a ballot, a separate process applies:
- You must register your interest by following the Home Office ballot instructions when the ballot opens.
- If you are selected, you will receive an invitation to apply, which includes a deadline for submitting your visa application.
- You must apply within the timeframe stated in the invitation, following the standard application steps above.
Ballot opening dates and procedures vary by nationality and are announced by the Home Office.
Conditions for Stay on Youth Mobility Visa UK
If you are granted a Youth Mobility Scheme visa, you are permitted to:
- Stay in the UK for the full period granted on your visa.
- Travel in and out of the UK while your permission remains valid, subject to standard border checks.
- Work in most roles, including paid employment and voluntary work.
- Undertake a limited study, provided it does not interfere with the main purpose of your stay.
- Be self-employed, subject to UKVI restrictions, including limits on business premises, equipment costs, and employing staff.
You are not permitted to:
- Claim public funds or access most state benefits.
- Work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach.
- Bring dependants to the UK under this route.
Switching Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
A Youth Mobility Scheme visa cannot be extended. However, you may be able to switch to a different visa route from within the UK, provided you meet the relevant eligibility and in-country switching requirements for that route.
Common routes that some Youth Mobility Scheme visa holders may be eligible to switch into include:
- The Skilled Worker visa, if you have an eligible job offer from a licensed sponsor.
- The Student visa, if you have an offer from a licensed education provider.
- Certain family visa routes, where eligibility requirements are met.
Any application to switch must be submitted before your current permission expires. Switching is not guaranteed and will depend on your individual circumstances and compliance with the Immigration Rules applicable to the new visa category.
Refusal of Youth Mobility Scheme Visa UK
If your Youth Mobility Scheme visa application is refused, the Home Office will provide written reasons for the decision. Common refusal grounds may include:
- You do not meet the eligibility requirements, such as age, nationality, or financial evidence.
- You have previously held permission under the Youth Mobility Scheme.
- You have children under the age of eighteen who live with you or who are financially dependent on you.
- You have provided incorrect, incomplete, or misleading information as part of your application.
- Your application does not meet the suitability requirements, including character or conduct considerations under the Immigration Rules.
Administrative Review and Further Options
If your application is refused due to a caseworking error, you may be able to request an administrative review. The availability of an administrative review depends on the reason for refusal and will be stated in your decision letter.
Where an administrative review is not available or is unsuccessful, you may be able to:
- Submit a fresh application, once the issues identified in the refusal have been addressed; or
- Seek legal advice on whether a judicial review may be appropriate in limited circumstances.
Strict time limits apply to administrative review and judicial review applications, and professional advice should be sought promptly.
How Can UK Immigration Solicitors Help?
Many types of visa applications have been helped by our team of business immigration barristers. Our lawyers are experts on the immigration choices for people who want to apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa. They will help you understand the complicated Home Office rules and policies.
When it comes to understanding and satisfying our clients’ needs, we take great satisfaction in being both approachable and proactive. Our team is very focused on giving Youth Mobility Scheme applicants clear and reliable immigration help as part of a personalised service.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
The Youth Mobility Scheme operates with annual country-specific quotas set by the Home Office. The number of places available depends on the applicant’s nationality, and some countries require selection through a ballot before an application can be made.
No. Applications for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa must be made from outside the UK, as the route grants entry clearance only. You cannot apply for this visa from within the UK.
You may be eligible if you are:
- Aged 18 to 30, or 18 to 35 for certain nationalities;
- A citizen of a participating country or holding a qualifying British nationality.
- Able to meet the financial requirement, including holding the required maintenance funds.
All eligibility requirements must be met at the date of application.
No. Switching into the Youth Mobility Scheme visa from another visa category is not permitted. Applications must be submitted from outside the UK.
If your application is approved, you will be granted permission to stay in the UK for two years, or three years if you are a national of Australia, Canada or New Zealand. The visa duration is granted in full and cannot be extended.
Most types of work are permitted. However, you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach, and you cannot access public funds while in the UK under this route.
You must show that you have held £2,530 in personal savings for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the date of your application. The funds must be held in a permitted financial institution and be immediately accessible.
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