United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland · youth mobility
Youth Mobility Scheme visa
Unsponsored 2-year visa for 18–30 or 18–35 year olds from participating countries and territories.
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Overview
The Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) allows nationals of participating countries to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 2 years (3 for some partners). Age limits and annual quotas differ by partner country. No sponsor required, no employer restrictions.
Government fees
Application fee plus IHS £1,035/year. Ballot fees apply for some partner countries.
Typical duration
2 years (3 years for specified partners such as New Zealand). Non-extendable.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Nationality of a participating country (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong BN(O), Iceland, Monaco, San Marino, Uruguay, and selected others).
Age in the qualifying range (18–30 for most; 18–35 for Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea).
Savings of £2,530 held for 28 days.
No dependent children who live with you or for whom you are financially responsible.
Common blockers
Nationality not on the participating list — the UK's YMS partners are fewer than commonly assumed.
Ballot quota exhausted (Hong Kong, India, and some other countries allocate places by ballot).
Typical evidence
Passport.
Bank statement showing £2,530 savings.
Ballot invitation for ballot-based partners.
Application pathway
Step 1
Confirm participation and quota
Check whether your country of nationality participates and whether a ballot applies.
Step 2
Apply or enter ballot
Apply directly if eligible, or submit ballot registration during the published window for ballot countries.
Step 3
Biometrics and decision
Attend biometrics; standard decisions within 3 weeks.
Step 4
Travel and settle for up to 2 years
Work, study, or travel; the visa imposes no employer or occupation restrictions.
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Frequently asked questions
Can YMS lead to settlement?
No. The YMS is a temporary route that does not count toward ILR. Many participants switch to Skilled Worker or Global Talent before expiry.
Can I bring dependants on YMS?
No. YMS applicants cannot bring dependent partners or children.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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