Overview
If you are between the ages of 18 and 30 and wish to reside and work in the UK for a maximum period of 2 years, you can submit an application for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa. In addition to meeting the age requirement, you must possess £2,530 in savings and fulfill specific criteria related to British Nationality or be a citizen of certain countries or territories listed in the eligibility requirements.
It is important to note that this visa replaces the previous Youth Mobility Scheme visa (T5). To initiate the application process, you must apply no earlier than 6 months before your intended travel date. For instance, if you plan to travel on 15 July, you can commence your application from 16 January.
As part of your visa application, you will be required to provide proof of your identity and submit relevant documents. It is advisable to allocate additional time if you need to schedule an appointment for this purpose, and you will be informed during the application process if an appointment is necessary.
Process time, cost and about your stay
Once you have completed the online application, provided the necessary documents, and verified your identity, you can typically expect a decision on your visa within a period of 3 weeks.
In terms of the cost involved, you will be required to make several payments. This includes the application fee as well as the healthcare surcharge, which is generally £470 per year. To determine the exact amount you need to pay, you can refer to the eligibility requirements. Additionally, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient personal savings, the specific amount of which can be found in the eligibility requirements as well.
The application fee for this visa is £259.
With this visa, you will be granted permission to live and work in the UK for a maximum duration of 24 months. You have the flexibility to enter the UK at any time while your visa remains valid, and you are free to leave and re-enter the country as needed throughout your stay.
It’s important to note that if you reach the age of 31 after your visa has been issued, you are still permitted to stay in the UK for the duration of your visa’s validity.