UK's Working Holiday Visa - The Complete Guide

If you’re thinking about immersing yourself in the charm of the UK, the Youth Mobility Scheme visa is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure. Every year, it allows young travellers to experience the rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning countryside that the UK has to offer.

Imagine This:

• Strolling through Hyde Park: Take in the beauty of London’s iconic green space
• Exploring the Scottish Highlands: Discover dramatic landscapes and ancient castles
• Enjoying a pub night in Manchester: Experience the lively atmosphere and British hospitality with new friends

The youth mobility scheme visa is the UK’s equivalent to a working holiday visa, open to certain nationalities aged 18-30, or 18-35 (depending on where you’re from). This visa offers a fantastic opportunity to live and work in the UK for up to two years, giving you plenty of time to explore everything from London’s landmarks to the hidden gems of the British countryside.

In this guide, we’ll take you through all you need to know about the youth mobility scheme visa—from eligibility and application tips to practical advice on settling in and finding work. Get ready to embrace life in the UK. 

Who Can Apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa?

If you're from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or South Korea and aged 18 to 35, you’re eligible to apply for the UK youth mobility scheme visa. You must be at least 18 years old when your visa starts and 35 or under when you apply. However, you can submit your application before turning 18, and still be eligible if you’re over 35 when the visa begins.

If you're from other parts of the world, eligibility is slightly different. You can apply for the visa if you’re aged 18 to 30 and from Andorra, Iceland, Japan, Monaco, San Marino, or Uruguay. Additionally, applicants from Hong Kong (with a SAR passport) and Taiwan must first be selected in the youth mobility scheme ballot before applying.

If you’re a British overseas citizen, British overseas territories citizen, or British national (overseas) and aged 18 to 30, you are also eligible to apply. Like others, you must be 18 or over when your visa starts, and 30 or under when you apply, but you can apply before turning 18 or after you turn 30 as long as the visa begins before the age limit.

For up-to-date information, check the youth mobility scheme website. 

What You Need to Know About Further Eligibility 

You will need to have funds and be able to prove that you have enough to support yourself during your stay. You must have at least £2,530 in your bank account, and the money must have been available for a minimum of 28 consecutive days.

When Applying for The Visa You Must Have

When applying for the youth mobility scheme visa, you’ll need to provide several key documents to support your application:

• A valid passport or another official document proving your identity and nationality
• A bank statement showing a minimum of £2,530 in savings, which demonstrates you have enough funds to support yourself
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results if you're from a country where the test is required
• Ensure your passport has a blank page available for the visa
• You have comprehensive travel, health and medical insurance 

It’s worth noting several countries have additional “must-have” documents, so cross-checking the Youth Mobility Scheme visa website is useful to ensure you have the relevant documentation for your country. 

How To Apply For Your Visa 

The application process for the visa is relatively straightforward, however, it can vary from country to country, so ensure you have all the relevant information you need that is relevant to your location. 

How to Apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

Before beginning your application, it's crucial to gather all the required documents and understand the process. Additionally, you’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), so be sure to calculate the total amount you’ll owe before submitting your application.

If you're from Hong Kong or Taiwan, participation in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot is mandatory. You must be selected through this process before applying for your visa.

Application Process

To apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, you must complete the process online while outside the UK.

Identity Verification and Document Submission

During your application, you’ll need to verify your identity, and the method will depend on your nationality and passport type. You will either:

• Visit a visa application centre to have your fingerprints and photo taken for a biometric residence permit
• Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your identity documents and log in (or create) your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

You’ll receive instructions on which steps apply to you when you start the application process.

Job Opportunities in The UK 

With a Youth Mobility Scheme visa, the doors to a variety of exciting job opportunities in the UK are wide open. You can dive into roles across most industries, from buzzing hospitality gigs in trendy restaurants and hotels to retail and administrative positions that give you a taste of British business life. If you prefer the great outdoors, there are plenty of seasonal jobs in agriculture and tourism hotspots, perfect for combining work with exploration. 

If you want to boost your career, the UK offers professional opportunities in fields like marketing, IT, healthcare, and education. Whether you want to work full-time or part-time, there’s a role to suit your lifestyle. While a few public service and professional sports roles may be restricted, the possibilities are endless for gaining experience, meeting new people, and enjoying all the UK has to offer. 

By utilising Global Work & Travel, we can pair you with a guaranteed job match before your arrival, ensuring that your entry into the country is seamless and stress-free.

When You Arrive in The UK 

After landing in the UK, your first stop will be border control. Here, you'll need to present your passport and visa, as well as any supporting documents like your Youth Mobility Scheme confirmation or travel details. You may be asked a few questions about your stay, so have your accommodation and travel plans handy. After clearing immigration, you'll collect your luggage and pass through customs, where you'll need to declare any restricted items.

Top tips for when you first land: 

• Purchasing a UK SIM card to stay connected
• Set up a local bank account to manage your finances
• Familiarise yourself with public transport options, whether you're in a major city or a smaller town

Travel and Adventure Tips

Get ready to explore the UK’s mix of iconic destinations and hidden treasures. Start with must-see highlights like the historic streets of London, the cultural buzz of Edinburgh, and the charming vibes of Bath. But don’t stop there—discover secret gems like Cornwall's rugged coastlines, the magical Cotswolds villages, or the wild beauty of Snowdonia National Park in Wales. Want to get off the beaten path? Check out the Isle of Skye in Scotland or the tranquil lakes of Cumbria.

When it comes to getting around, hop on a train for scenic routes across the countryside, or rent a car to wander at your own pace. Buses and domestic flights are great for budget-conscious travellers too. Travel tip: always pack a raincoat (yes, even in summer!) and don’t be afraid to chat with locals—they’ll often point you toward the best spots. The UK is small but packed with endless adventures.

Setting Up Your Finances

Setting up a local bank account in the UK is simple and essential for managing your finances. Most major banks like Barclays, HSBC, or Lloyds offer accounts for newcomers. To open one, you’ll need your passport, proof of address, and possibly your visa details. Once set up, mobile banking makes it easy to manage your money on the go. 

As for budgeting, the cost of living can vary—cities like London are pricier, so plan ahead. To save money, consider meal prepping instead of eating out, and take advantage of the UK’s vast network of free museums and parks. For transportation, using an Oyster card in London or rail passes for intercity travel can help keep travel costs down. With smart budgeting, you can stretch your pounds further and enjoy everything the UK offers. 

Travelling The Rest of Europe 

One of the best perks of holding a Youth Mobility Visa in the UK is how easy it is to travel around Europe. With budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, you can hop on a flight to Paris, Rome, or Barcelona for a weekend getaway. 

If you prefer a slower pace, the Eurostar can whisk you directly from London to destinations like Paris or Brussels in just a few hours. You can also take advantage of Europe’s extensive rail network with a Eurail pass, perfect for exploring multiple countries on one trip. 

Just remember to check visa requirements for each country, as the UK visa doesn’t always grant automatic entry into Europe. With careful planning and a bit of adventure, you can use the UK as your launchpad to explore all the cultural and historical wonders Europe has to offer. 

Book Your Trip With Global Work & Travel

When it comes to organising your working holiday, Global Work & Travel has you covered from A to Z. We take care of job placements, visas, accommodation, and more, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. 

• Working holiday in UK (plus) 
• Working holiday in UK (lite) 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Common inquiries about the Working Holiday Visa and living in the UK:

• What is the Youth Mobility Scheme visa?The Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa allows young people from certain countries to live, work, and travel in the UK for up to two years.
• Who is eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa?Eligible countries include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and a few others. Applicants must be between 18-30 years old (or 18-35 for some countries) when applying.
• How long does the Youth Mobility Scheme visa last?The YMS visa is valid for 24 months, during which you can live and work in the UK without needing employer sponsorship.
• Can I extend my Youth Mobility Scheme visa?No, the Youth Mobility Scheme visa cannot be extended or renewed. Once your two-year stay ends, you must leave the UK or apply for a different visa if eligible.
• What jobs can I take with this visa?You can work in almost any sector, from hospitality and retail to office roles. However, you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or pursue certain public sector jobs.
• How do I find a job in the UK?You can use job websites like Indeed, TotalJobs, and Reed, or visit recruitment agencies. Networking and attending job fairs are also great ways to find work.
• Do I need a National Insurance (NI) number to work in the UK?Yes, you must apply for an NI number to work and pay tax in the UK. You can apply for it once you arrive.
• How do I set up a bank account in the UK?Major UK banks like Barclays, HSBC, and Lloyds offer accounts for newcomers. You’ll need your passport, visa, proof of address, and a document proving employment or income.
• Do I need private health insurance in the UK?As part of your visa application, you’ll pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which gives you access to the NHS. Additional private health insurance is optional.
• What is the best way to get around the UK?The UK has excellent public transport, with trains, buses, and underground networks in cities. If you're travelling between cities, trains and coaches are reliable options, or you can rent a car for road trips.
• How do I manage taxes in the UK?Your employer will automatically deduct Income Tax and National Insurance from your salary. At the end of the tax year (April 6 - April 5), you may need to file a tax return if you’re self-employed or want to claim a refund.
• What’s the average cost of living in the UK?The cost of living varies depending on the city. London is the most expensive, while cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow are more affordable. Rent, groceries, and public transport are key costs to budget for.
• Can I study while on the Youth Mobility Scheme visa?Yes, you can study part-time or full-time while on the YMS visa, but you won’t have access to government student loans or grants.
• Can I travel outside the UK and return while on this visa?Yes, you can travel to other countries and return to the UK as long as your visa remains valid. Europe is especially easy to explore due to its proximity and budget travel options.

What happens when my Youth Mobility Scheme visa expires?Once your visa expires, you must leave the UK. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to explore other visa options, such as a work visa, student visa, or skilled worker visa, depending on your eligibility.