Youth Mobility Scheme Visa UK
A 2-year working holiday visa for young adults aged 18 to 30 (or up to 35 for select countries) to explore and work in the UK.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
The Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) provides young people from participating partner countries the opportunity to live, work, and travel in the United Kingdom for up to 2 years (with 3-year extensions available for Australian, New Zealand, and Canadian citizens). It requires no employer sponsorship and allows virtually any type of work.
Participating Countries & Age Limits
- Age 18 to 35: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea.
- Age 18 to 30: Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Iceland, Monaco, San Marino, Uruguay, and British Overseas Territories.
- India Young Professionals Scheme: Open to Indian degree-holders aged 18-30 through an official ballot selection.
Key Requirements & Highlights
- 2-year visa (extendable to 3 years for select Commonwealth nationals).
- No sponsor required; freedom to work in almost any role or be self-employed.
- Maintenance requirement: £2,530 in personal bank account held for 28 consecutive days.
- Cannot bring dependent children on this route.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- Check Eligibility & BallotsVerify your country's quota and whether ballot entry is required (e.g. India, Hong Kong).
- Proof of FundsMaintain £2,530 in personal savings for 28 consecutive days.
- Submit OnlineComplete GOV.UK application, pay £298 visa fee and 2-year IHS (£1,552).
- Biometrics & EntryAttend biometric appointment and enter the UK within 90-day travel window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from Youth Mobility into Skilled Worker inside the UK?
Yes. Youth Mobility holders can switch into the Skilled Worker route, Innovator Founder, or family routes from within the UK before their visa expires.
Can I be self-employed on Youth Mobility?
Yes, provided your business premises are not owned by you (other than your home), equipment is worth less than £5,000, and you have no employees.
Need Guidance on Your Application?
Priyanshu Decodes provides clear route explanations, document planning, and consultation calls. For regulated legal advice or formal Home Office representation, always consult an IAA-registered adviser or an immigration solicitor.