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About the Youth Mobility Scheme
The Youth Mobility Scheme is United Kingdom's working holiday visa programme. Work-and-live visa for nationals aged 18-35 (Australians, Canadians, New Zealanders) or 18-30 (Japan, South Korea, India, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Iceland) from a defined list. Initial grant of 2 years; Australians, Canadians, and New Zealanders can extend once for a third year (since Jan 2024). No job offer or career plan required. Annual quota; ballot-allocated for some nationalities.
Applications are processed in 1–3 months on average. Government fees start at $320, and the visa is valid for 2 years.
The Youth Mobility Scheme is suited to work in tech, study & work.
Weighing United Kingdom against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
See how the Youth Mobility Scheme stacks up head-to-head against related pathways:
Eligibility requirements
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Does not directly lead to permanent residence.
Validity period
2 years
How to apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme
- 01
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials, employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 02
Submit your YMS (T5) application
File online through the official United Kingdom immigration portal and pay the government fee of $320. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 03
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 04
Receive decision (1–3 months)
Standard processing takes 1–3 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the Youth Mobility Scheme?
Work-and-live visa for nationals aged 18-35 (Australians, Canadians, New Zealanders) or 18-30 (Japan, South Korea, India, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Iceland) from a defined list. Initial grant of 2 years; Australians, Canadians, and New Zealanders can extend once for a third year (since Jan 2024). No job offer or career plan required. Annual quota; ballot-allocated for some nationalities.
How long does the Youth Mobility Scheme take to process?
Processing time for the Youth Mobility Scheme is typically 1–3 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official United Kingdom immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the Youth Mobility Scheme cost?
The government application fee for the Youth Mobility Scheme is $320 USD. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Can the Youth Mobility Scheme lead to permanent residence?
The Youth Mobility Scheme itself does not directly lead to permanent residence in United Kingdom. However, holders may be eligible to transition to a PR-pathway visa after meeting additional requirements. Use Transita's quiz to find visa routes that match your long-term goals.
Do I need a job offer for the Youth Mobility Scheme?
No. The Youth Mobility Scheme does not require a prior job offer. You can apply based on your qualifications, work history. This makes it particularly attractive for applicants who want to move first and job-search on arrival.
Can I work full-time on the Youth Mobility Scheme?
The Youth Mobility Scheme permits you to work in United Kingdom for the duration of your visa, though some restrictions may apply (such as a maximum period with any one employer). It is designed primarily for travel and cultural exchange with work as a supplement.