TEMPORARY WORK & TRAVEL

YOUTH MOBILITY SCHEME VISA

A flexible temporary route for eligible young adults seeking UK work and travel experience.

OVERVIEW

The Youth Mobility Scheme allows eligible young adults from participating countries and territories, and certain British nationality categories, to live and work in the UK for a temporary period. It is often used for work, travel, study and cultural experience.

The route is flexible, but it has strict age, nationality, savings and dependant restrictions. Some applicants must also use a ballot system before applying.

WHO MAY BE ELIGIBLE

  • Applicants aged 18 to 30 or 18 to 35, depending on nationality.

  • Applicants from participating countries and territories, or certain British nationality categories.

  • Applicants with the required savings held for the required period.

  • Applicants who do not have children under 18 living with them or children they are financially responsible for.

PARTICIPATING COUNTRIES & BALLOTS

Eligible countries and ballot requirements can change. Current GOV.UK guidance lists Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Korea as eligible up to age 35, and several other participating countries for applicants up to age 30. Hong Kong SAR passport holders and Taiwanese applicants must usually be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot. Indian nationals use the separate India Young Professionals Scheme.

WHAT THE VISA ALLOWS

  • Live and work in the UK during the visa period.

  • Work in most roles without a sponsor.

  • Study during the visa period.

  • Travel in and out of the UK.

  • Switch into some other routes later if the relevant requirements are met.

EVIDENCE TO PREPARE

  • Valid passport or identity document.

  • Bank statement showing the required savings.

  • Tuberculosis certificate if required by country of residence.

  • Ballot selection evidence where applicable.

  • Additional documents depending on nationality and circumstances.

HOW WE CAN HELP

  • Check age, nationality and savings eligibility.

  • Advise on ballot requirements and timing.

  • Review financial and identity documents before submission.

  • Discuss future options if the applicant wants to remain in the UK longer term.

Evidence focus

Documents often matter most.

Every case is different, but these are common evidence themes for this route.

PASSPORT

EVIDENCE OF SAVINGS

TB CERTIFICATE IF REQUIRED

BALLOT EVIDENCE

TRAVEL HISTORY

FUTURE ROUTE PLANNING