The UK’s Youth Mobility visa provides an opportunity for eligible young people from designated countries and territories to live, work and study in the UK for a limited period. The scheme is designed as a cultural exchange route, giving participants the chance to experience British life while supporting themselves through employment.
This guide explains the eligibility requirements, conditions, application process and costs for the Youth Mobility visa. It also outlines what holders are permitted to do during their stay, the restrictions they must observe, and how long the visa lasts.
Section A: What is the UK’s Youth Mobility Visa?
The Youth Mobility visa is part of the UK’s immigration framework, allowing qualifying applicants aged 18 to 30 — or 18 to 35 for certain nationalities — to spend up to two or three years in the UK. The scheme promotes international cultural exchange and work experience for young adults. It is the closest route to a working holiday visa for the UK, although the UK is exploring a possible scheme with the EU.
Eligibility depends on nationality and age. The route is available to citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Monaco, San Marino, Iceland, Andorra, Uruguay, Hong Kong (SAR), South Korea, and Taiwan, as well as British Overseas citizens, British Overseas Territories citizens and British Nationals (Overseas).
For Australian, Canadian and New Zealand nationals, the upper age limit is 35 and a total stay of three years is permitted. For other nationalities, the age limit is 30 and the visa length is capped at two years.
Applicants must show they have sufficient savings to support themselves on arrival and they cannot bring dependants. The visa allows holders to work in most jobs and to study, subject to some conditions. However, they cannot work as professional sportspeople or sports coaches. Self-employment is permitted only under restricted conditions, such as not owning premises, not investing more than £5,000 in equipment, and not employing staff.
For applicants from Hong Kong (SAR) and Taiwan, demand exceeds the number of visas available, so they must first be successful in a ballot before being invited to apply.
Youth Mobility visa holders may travel in and out of the UK while the visa remains valid. They must also comply with restrictions on accessing public funds.
1. How Long You Can Stay
Most Youth Mobility visa holders can remain in the UK for 24 months. Citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand may extend their stay for an additional 12 months, bringing the maximum stay to three years.
Holders may enter and leave the UK freely during the visa period. If an applicant turns 31 (or 36 for Australia, Canada or New Zealand) after the visa is granted, they can continue to stay until their visa expires.
This route does not generally lead to settlement. Applicants must leave the UK when their visa ends, although some may be eligible to apply for a different type of visa if they meet the requirements of another category.
2. Youth Mobility Scheme Quotas
The UK applies annual quotas on the number of Youth Mobility visas available for each eligible country or territory. These allocations are updated by the Home Office each year. The 2025 quotas are set out below:
| Country/Territory | Number of Places (2025) |
|---|---|
| Andorra | 100 |
| Australia | 42,000 |
| Canada | 10,000 |
| Hong Kong (SAR) | 1,000 |
| Iceland | 1,000 |
| Japan | 6,000 |
| Monaco | 1,000 |
| New Zealand | 9,500 |
| Republic of Korea | 5,000 |
| San Marino | 1,000 |
| Taiwan | 1,000 |
| Uruguay | 500 |
Where demand is greater than the quota, such as for Hong Kong and Taiwan, a ballot system is used to allocate places. Successful ballot entrants are then invited to submit a full visa application.
Section B: Youth Mobility Visa Requirements
The eligibility rules for the Youth Mobility visa are set out in Appendix Youth Mobility Scheme of the Immigration Rules. Applicants must meet the nationality, age, and financial requirements, as well as certain additional conditions, to qualify.
1. Nationality Requirement
Applicants must be either a British Overseas citizen, a British Overseas Territories citizen or a British National (Overseas), or a citizen of one of the following countries: Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Iceland, Hong Kong (SAR), Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, or Uruguay.
Nationals of Hong Kong (SAR) and Taiwan must first be successful in the Youth Mobility ballot before being able to apply for a visa.
Indian nationals are not eligible under this scheme and must instead apply under the separate India Young Professionals Scheme.
2. Age Requirement
Applicants must be aged 18 or over when their entry clearance becomes valid and aged 30 or under at the date of application.
For Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand citizens, the upper age limit has been extended to 35, reflecting reciprocal arrangements with those countries. These nationals are also permitted a longer stay of three years rather than two.
3. Maintenance Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate that they have at least £2,530 in savings. This money must be held for a continuous 28-day period, and day 28 must fall within the 31 days before the visa application is submitted. Bank statements or other official evidence of funds will be required to prove this requirement is met.
4. Additional Eligibility Requirements
Applicants will not qualify for a Youth Mobility visa if they:
- Have children under the age of 18 who live with them or who are financially dependent on them
- Have already been granted a Youth Mobility visa in the past
- Fail the suitability requirements of the Immigration Rules, for example due to serious criminal convictions or previous immigration breaches
Applications are also subject to annual country quotas. Once a quota is reached, further applications from that nationality will not be accepted until the following year.
Section C: How to Apply for a Youth Mobility Visa
Applications for the Youth Mobility visa must be made from outside the UK. The process involves completing the specified online application form, submitting the required documents, paying the relevant fees, and providing biometric information.
Applicants must apply using the “Temporary Work or Youth Mobility Scheme” form on the official UK government website. Entry clearance must be obtained before travelling to the UK.
1. Application Process
Once the online form has been completed, the applicant pays the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge. They will then be instructed to provide biometric information, usually by attending an overseas visa application centre, unless they are eligible to use the UK Immigration: ID Check mobile app.
The earliest an application can be made is six months before intended travel. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) usually issue a decision within three weeks, although priority and super priority services may be available in some countries for an additional fee. If approved, the applicant will have 90 days to enter the UK.
2. Youth Mobility Visa Ballot
Applicants from Hong Kong (SAR) and Taiwan must first be selected through a ballot system, as demand from these territories exceeds the annual quota. The ballot usually opens twice a year, in January and July, and remains open for a limited period of time, typically 48 hours.
During the ballot window, eligible individuals submit an expression of interest online. After the ballot closes, UKVI randomly selects applicants. Successful entrants are notified by email with instructions on how to complete the full visa application within a specified timeframe. Failure to apply within the given deadline will result in losing the allocated place.
Unsuccessful entrants may reapply in future ballot rounds if they remain eligible.
3. Supporting Documents
Applicants will need to submit supporting documents to demonstrate their eligibility. These include:
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for the duration of the intended stay |
| Proof of Funds | Bank statements showing at least £2,530 held for 28 consecutive days |
| Biometric Information | Fingerprint and photograph taken at a visa application centre, or via the UK Immigration: ID Check app if eligible |
| ATAS Certificate (if required) | Needed for certain study courses in sensitive academic subjects |
Additional documents may be required in specific cases. For example, Indian nationals applying under the separate India Young Professionals Scheme must provide evidence of either a degree qualification at RQF level 6 or above, or at least three years of relevant professional experience. However, this requirement does not apply to Youth Mobility visa applicants.
Section D: Application Fees & Timeline
Applicants must pay an application fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and a biometric enrolment fee when applying for a Youth Mobility visa. Additional charges apply if a priority service is used to speed up the decision process.
1. Youth Mobility Visa Costs
The standard fees for a Youth Mobility visa application are as follows:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | £298 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 per year |
| Biometric Information Fee | £19.20 |
Applicants may also choose priority services if available in their country:
- Priority service: an additional £500, for a decision within 5 working days after biometric enrolment
- Super priority service: an additional £1,000, for a decision within 24 hours after biometric enrolment
The IHS must be paid upfront for each year of the visa. Payment of the surcharge gives the visa holder access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
2. Timeline
The application process can be broken down into several stages. Estimated timings are as follows:
| Step | Description | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare Documents | Gather bank statements, passport, and any other required evidence | 1–2 weeks |
| Submit Online Application | Complete the application form and pay the fees | 1 day |
| Attend Biometric Appointment | Provide fingerprints and photograph at a visa centre (if required) | 1–2 weeks |
| Wait for Decision | Application processing by UKVI | 3 weeks (standard service) |
| Travel to the UK | Enter the UK within 90 days of visa approval | Varies |
Using priority services, where available, can significantly reduce waiting times. However, availability depends on the applicant’s location and local visa centre capacity.
Section E: Restrictions & Conditions
While the Youth Mobility visa gives holders significant freedom to work, study and travel in the UK, there are also restrictions and conditions that must be observed throughout the visa period.
1. Youth Mobility Visa Permissible Activities
Visa holders are allowed to take up most forms of employment, be self-employed under limited conditions, and pursue private study. They may also leave and re-enter the UK at any time while their visa remains valid.
The key restrictions are:
- No work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach
- No work as a doctor or dentist in training, unless the applicant holds a UK medical or dental degree from a recognised UK institution
- No access to public funds, including welfare benefits and social housing
- No right to bring dependants to the UK
Self-employment is permitted if:
- The business does not own premises, other than a home office
- The total value of equipment used is less than £5,000
- No employees are hired
The table below summarises what activities are permitted:
| Activity | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Employment | Allowed | No restrictions on sector or type of job |
| Self-Employment | Allowed | Restrictions apply (no premises, max £5,000 equipment, no employees) |
| Professional Sportsperson/Coach | Not Allowed | Includes paid coaching or playing |
| Doctor or Dentist in Training | Not Allowed (except UK graduates) | Permitted only with a UK-recognised degree in medicine or dentistry |
| Voluntary Work | Allowed | No restrictions |
| Study | Allowed | ATAS certificate required for certain sensitive courses |
2. Youth Mobility Period of Stay
Most Youth Mobility visa holders are granted permission to stay for 24 months. Citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand are eligible for an additional 12 months, taking the total period to three years. There is no visa extension option.
Applicants can only be granted a Youth Mobility visa once in their lifetime. If a person has previously held this visa, they cannot apply again under the scheme.
If the visa expires and the individual wishes to remain in the UK, they must apply for a different visa category, either from overseas or, in some limited cases, from within the UK if switching is permitted under the rules.
3. Switching or Extending
The Youth Mobility visa does not normally provide a route to settlement. Extensions are only available to citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Other nationals cannot extend their stay beyond the initial two years.
Switching to another visa category from inside the UK is generally not allowed, although there are exceptions for some immigration routes, such as partner visas or Skilled Worker applications where eligibility criteria are met. Most applicants who wish to stay longer must leave the UK and apply for a new visa from overseas.
Section F: Summary
The Youth Mobility visa provides young people from participating countries and territories with the opportunity to live, work and study in the UK on a temporary basis. It is intended as a cultural exchange scheme, offering valuable personal and professional experiences while maintaining strict eligibility criteria and restrictions.
The visa is accessible without sponsorship or a job offer, but applicants must show financial independence and meet age and nationality requirements. For most, the stay is limited to two years, although citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand may remain for up to three years through an additional 12-month extension.
Holders enjoy broad working rights, including most forms of employment and certain types of self-employment, as well as study opportunities. However, they are prohibited from accessing public funds, bringing dependants, or taking up roles as professional sportspeople or doctors or dentists in training (unless UK qualified).
Applicants from Hong Kong (SAR) and Taiwan face an added hurdle of the ballot system, where demand exceeds annual quotas. All applicants must also pay visa fees, the Immigration Health Surcharge, and demonstrate they have the required savings before applying.
Although this route does not generally lead to permanent settlement in the UK, it remains a highly attractive option for those looking to expand their horizons, gain international experience and immerse themselves in life in the UK for a fixed period.
Section G: Need Assistance?
Applying for a UK Youth Mobility visa can be a detailed process, involving strict eligibility requirements, financial criteria and compliance with conditions set out in the Immigration Rules. Careful preparation of your application and supporting documents will help avoid delays or refusals.
If you are uncertain about your eligibility, the ballot system, or the type of documents needed for your circumstances, you should refer to the official UK government guidance or seek advice from a qualified immigration adviser regulated by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC).
Checking the most up-to-date information is important, since visa fees, health surcharge amounts and quota allocations are subject to change each year. The official government website provides current details on the Youth Mobility visa, application forms, and step-by-step instructions.
Section H: Youth Mobility Visa FAQs
What is the Youth Mobility Visa UK?
The Youth Mobility visa allows young people from eligible countries and territories to live, work and study in the UK for up to two years, or up to three years if they are from Australia, Canada or New Zealand.
Who is eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme?
Eligibility is based on nationality, age and financial requirements. Applicants must usually be aged between 18 and 30. Citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand can apply up to the age of 35. They must also show at least £2,530 in savings. Nationals of Hong Kong (SAR) and Taiwan must enter and be selected in a ballot before applying.
What documents are required for the Youth Mobility visa?
The main documents include a valid passport, proof of savings, biometric information, and where relevant, an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate for certain study subjects. Additional documents may be required depending on personal circumstances.
How much does the Youth Mobility visa cost?
The application fee is £298. Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge at £1,035 per year, and £19.20 for biometric enrolment. Extra charges apply if using a priority or super priority service.
Which countries are eligible for the Youth Mobility visa?
The scheme is open to citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong (SAR), Taiwan, Monaco, San Marino, Iceland, Andorra, and Uruguay, as well as British Overseas citizens, British Overseas Territories citizens and British Nationals (Overseas). Indian nationals may be eligible under the separate India Young Professionals Scheme.
How long can I stay in the UK on a Youth Mobility visa?
Most applicants can stay for two years. Citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand are eligible for an extra 12-month extension, allowing them to remain for a total of three years.
Can I extend a Youth Mobility visa?
Extensions are only available for citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand, who can apply for an additional year. For other nationals, the visa cannot be extended.
Can I work on a Youth Mobility visa?
Yes, holders can work in most jobs and may be self-employed under restrictions. They cannot work as professional sportspeople or coaches, or as doctors or dentists in training unless they hold a recognised UK degree in medicine or dentistry.
Can I study on a Youth Mobility visa?
Yes, privately funded study is allowed. Some courses, particularly those involving sensitive technology, require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
Can I bring dependants on a Youth Mobility visa?
No. Visa holders cannot bring partners, children or other dependants under this route.
What happens if my application is refused?
If refused, applicants may request an administrative review if they believe a decision-making error occurred. Alternatively, they may reapply, ensuring they meet all the requirements and provide the correct documents.
Can I switch to another visa while on a Youth Mobility visa?
Switching to another visa category from within the UK is generally restricted. In some cases, switching may be possible, for example to a Skilled Worker or partner visa, if all requirements are met. In most cases, a new application must be made from overseas.
What responsibilities do visa holders have?
Holders must obey UK laws, comply with the visa conditions, pay any taxes due on employment or self-employment, and leave the UK when their visa expires unless they have secured valid permission to stay under another route.
Section I: Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Youth Mobility Visa | A UK visa that allows eligible young people from specific countries and territories to live, work and study in the UK for a limited period (two or three years). |
| Ballot | A random selection process used for Hong Kong (SAR) and Taiwan applicants where demand exceeds annual quotas. |
| Eligibility Criteria | The rules that must be met to apply, including nationality, age, and financial requirements. |
| Expression of Interest | The process of submitting details during a ballot round to be considered for a visa place. |
| Biometric Information | Data collected from applicants, such as fingerprints and a photograph, required as part of the application. |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | A mandatory fee that gives visa holders access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). |
| ATAS Certificate | The Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate required for certain sensitive study courses in the UK. |
| Dependants | Family members who rely on the primary visa holder for support. Not permitted under the Youth Mobility visa. |
| Visa Fees | The costs associated with applying, including the application fee, IHS, and biometric enrolment fee. |
| Administrative Review | A process by which an applicant can ask UKVI to review a visa refusal if an error is believed to have been made. |
| UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) | The Home Office division responsible for processing visa applications and managing immigration controls. |
| Annual Quota | The maximum number of Youth Mobility visas allocated by the Home Office to each eligible country or territory each year. |
Section J: Additional Resources
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Official UK Government Guidance: Youth Mobility Visa | https://www.gov.uk/youth-mobility |
| UK Visas and Immigration Contact Information | https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk |
| Immigration Health Surcharge Information | https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application |
| Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) | https://www.gov.uk/guidance/academic-technology-approval-scheme |
| UK Visa Fees | https://www.gov.uk/visa-fees |
| National Health Service (NHS) Information | https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/nhs-services/ |
| Youth Mobility Visa UK – DavidsonMorris | https://www.davidsonmorris.com/youth-mobility-visa-uk/ |
| Youth Mobility Visa UK – Xpats.io | https://www.xpats.io/youth-mobility-visa-uk/ |
