Generic Requirements for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

• To qualify for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, there are specific entry requirements that must be met by the applicant. These requirements ensure that individuals are eligible to enter and stay in the UK under this scheme.
• First and foremost, the applicant must initiate and successfully obtain an entry clearance under the Youth Mobility Scheme route before their arrival in the UK. This clearance is an essential step in the process and must be secured in advance.
• For applicants from certain countries (paragraph A39 and Appendix T) must provide a valid medical certificate confirming that they have undergone screening for active pulmonary tuberculosis and that tuberculosis is not present in them. This medical certificate serves as a health clearance for entry into the UK.
• No Previous Stay on the Youth Mobility Scheme: The applicant should not have spent any previous time in the UK under the Youth Mobility Scheme route. This requirement ensures that the scheme remains accessible to newcomers.

Age Requirements for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

• One of the fundamental eligibility criteria for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is the age of the applicant. To be eligible for entry clearance under this scheme, the applicant must meet specific age requirements. Generally, applicants must be aged 30 or under on the date of their visa application. However, there is an exception for nationals of New Zealand, who are eligible to apply if they are aged 35 or under on the date of their application.
• It’s worth noting that individuals applying for entry clearance from outside the UK have the flexibility to submit their applications up to six months in advance of their intended travel date to the UK. Additionally, applicants can initiate their application process before turning 18, as long as they will reach the age of 18 when their entry clearance becomes effective, aligning with their intended travel date to the UK.

Country-Specific Eligibility Requirements for the Your Mobility Scheme Visa

Youth Mobility Visa for New Zealand Nationals

• If you are from New Zealand and aged between 18 and 35, you are eligible to apply for this visa. This means you can apply for the visa if you are 18 years or older when your visa commences or if you are under the age of 35 when you submit your application. Remarkably, you can initiate the application process even before reaching the age of 18, and it is permissible for your visa to commence after your 35th birthday.
• Permission to Stay Additional Year for New Zealand Nationals: Starting from June 29, 2023, New Zealand nationals have the opportunity to apply for permission to stay under the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) for a duration of additional one year. This additional year of stay contributes to a total of three continuous years of residence in the UK. To be eligible for permission to stay, New Zealand nationals must fulfil certain validity requirements, including:
• Possession of valid YMS leave at the time of application, with verification to ensure the applicant has not transitioned into another immigration category
• Physical presence in the UK at the time of application.
• No prior grant of permission to stay under the YMS route.
• Furthermore, New Zealand nationals who maintain valid YMS leave on or after June 29, 2023, are entitled to apply for permission to stay, even if their initial entry clearance was granted before this date. However, New Zealand nationals whose YMS permission lapsed before June 29, 2023, are not eligible to apply for permission to stay.
• It is important to note that permission to stay can only be granted to a New Zealand national once, and the maximum cumulative duration of grant under the YMS is capped at three continuous years.

Youth Mobility Visa for Other Nationals

• For individuals hailing from Australia, Canada, Monaco, or are British overseas citizens, British overseas territories citizens, or British nationals (overseas), and are between the ages of 18 and 30, can apply for this visa category as they do not have any country-specific eligibility requirements beyond the general criteria mentioned earlier.
• Hong Kong, Japan, Republic of Korea, and Taiwan: Applicants from these territories must be between the ages of 18 to 30 years. They must be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot before you can submit your visa application, and they must submit their application within the time limit specified in that invitation to apply. You must be 18 or older when your visa begins. You can apply even before your 18th birthday and your visa can also be activated after you turn 30.
• San Marino: Applicants from San Marino are required to provide a letter confirming their suitability for the Youth Mobility Scheme from the Directorate of Political and Diplomatic Affairs of the Republic of San Marino Department of Foreign Affairs. This letter should be issued no more than six months before the date of the visa application.
• Iceland: Applicants from Iceland must provide a Criminal Certificate for Private Use, known in Icelandic as Sakavottorð. This certificate should have been issued no more than six months before the date of the visa application.
• India: Indian applicants must adhere to a set of specific criteria. They should have received an invitation to apply in accordance with the invitation to apply arrangements specified in Appendix Youth Mobility Scheme: eligible nationals. The application should be submitted within the period of time mentioned in the invitation, and the unique application number (UAN) from that invitation must be provided. Additionally, applicants must furnish a local police certificate, or a police clearance certificate issued no more than six months before the date of application. Lastly, they should hold a qualification equal to or above RQF level 6, which is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or higher, substantiated by a copy of the qualification and written confirmation from the college or university of completion.
• It is important to note that these country-specific eligibility requirements do not apply to individuals who are British Overseas Citizens, British Overseas Territories Citizens, or British Nationals (Overseas). These individuals are exempt from these specific requirements when applying for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa.

Financial Requirement for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

• To qualify for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, you must demonstrate financial stability. Specifically, you need to have a minimum of £2,530 in your bank account to prove that you can support yourself while in the UK. It’s important to note that you must have maintained this amount in your account continuously for at least 28 consecutive days. The crucial day 28 must fall within 31 days of your visa application.
• Meeting these financial prerequisites is essential to ensuring your eligibility for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, hence when you submit your application, you will be required to provide evidence of these financial funds.
• It’s important to emphasize that applicants should not have any children under the age of 18 who are either residing with them or financially reliant on them. This provision underscores the necessity for individuals applying for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa to be financially self-sufficient and not burdened with the responsibility of supporting dependent children during their stay in the UK.

“Invitation to Apply” Arrangements and Qualification Criteria

• To effectively manage the allocation of annual quotas and streamline the application process, the Home Office has instituted a system known as “invitation to apply arrangements”. The purpose of these arrangements is to ensure fairness and transparency in the allocation of places under the Youth Mobility Scheme. They specifically apply to individuals from certain countries and territories, allowing the Home Office to regulate the application process efficiently. Countries and territories that fall under the invitation to apply arrangements include Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Republic of Korea, and India.
• Applicants belong to countries or territories governed by the “invitation to apply” arrangements must meet below criteria:
• • They must receive an official invitation to apply, which is a prerequisite for proceeding with the visa application.
  • Each individual is limited to submitting only one expression of interest during the specified submission period.
  • The Home Office will randomly select individuals from the pool of those who have submitted expressions of interest to invite them to apply for entry clearance under the relevant allocation of the Youth Mobility Scheme.
  • A record of those individuals receiving an invitation to apply will be maintained by the Home Office.
  • The Home Office may impose time limits for submitting expressions of interest, determine the number of monthly invitations to apply, and set a validity period for such invitations.
  • The applicant must submit their visa application within the stipulated timeframe mentioned in the invitation. Failure to meet this deadline may result in the application being deemed ineligible
• The invitation to apply typically specifies a 30-day window for submission of the entry clearance application. However, there is some flexibility, as late applications may be considered under specific circumstances. To qualify for such consideration, the applicant must meet two essential conditions:
• • The application should be submitted no more than 14 days after the last day of the invitation to apply period
  • The applicant must present compelling evidence demonstrating extenuating circumstances that were beyond their control or their representative’s control, explaining the delay in submission.
• Nationals or citizens of Australia, Canada, Iceland, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, and British Overseas Citizens, British Overseas Territories Citizens, or British Nationals (Overseas) are exempt from the invitation to apply requirements.

Required Documentation for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

• When applying for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, it is imperative to provide specific documents to support your application. These documents serve as evidence of your identity, financial capability, and compliance with relevant health requirements.
• Your valid passport or an alternative document that verifies your identity and nationality. This document serves as a primary form of identification and establishes your eligibility for the visa. It is essential to note that your passport should have at least one blank page available for the visa stamping.
• You are required to present a recent bank statement that demonstrates you possess a minimum of £2,530 in savings. This financial threshold is essential to confirm your ability to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
• If you are a citizen of a country from which taking a Tuberculosis (TB) test is mandatory, then you must provide the results of this test. This is an important health requirement aimed at safeguarding public health.
• Additionally, if any of your supporting documents are not in English or Welsh, you will need to provide certified translations to facilitate the assessment of your application.

Additional Requirements for Specific Countries

• Depending on your specific circumstances and country of origin, you may be required to furnish additional documents to supplement your application. It is advisable to thoroughly review the requirements that pertain to your situation and ensure that all necessary documents are provided.
• For applicants hailing from Hong Kong, Japan, the Republic of Korea, or Taiwan, an essential document is a valid email confirmation from the Home Office, affirming your success in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot. This email serves as proof of your eligibility for the scheme.
• If you are a citizen of San Marino, you will need to supply a letter from the Directorate of Political and Diplomatic Affairs of the Republic of San Marino Department of Foreign Affairs. This letter should confirm your suitability for the Youth Mobility Scheme and must have been issued within six months before you submit your Youth Mobility Scheme visa application.
• For applicants from Iceland, the mandatory document is an Icelandic Criminal Certificate for Private Use, referred to as Sakavottorð. This certificate should have been issued within six months of your Youth Mobility Scheme visa application.

The Importance of Precise Documentation

• When it comes to securing your Youth Mobility Visa, the pivotal factor hinges on the precision and completeness of your documentation. Each piece of paperwork serves a distinct purpose—it substantiates your eligibility and underscores your commitment to complying with the UK visa regulations.

How Our Immigration Visa Experts Can Facilitate Your Journey:

• At AGCL Services, we are seasoned professionals, having successfully guided numerous individuals through the complex process of obtaining their Youth Mobility Visa. Our primary objective is to ensure that you possess all the requisite documents while ensuring the utmost accuracy and completeness in your application. Moreover, our unwavering support and guidance accompany you at every juncture, streamlining the visa application process for your convenience.

Streamlining Your Youth Mobility Visa Application:

• Applying for a Youth Mobility Visa can be complicated, demanding accurate documentation that substantiates your eligibility. If you choose to go it alone, following the UK Home Office’s online instructions can be challenging, and errors may lead to rejection, incurring significant time and costs. AGCL Services simplifies this process, ensuring your documents are meticulously prepared and your application aligns with the Home Office’s standards.

AGCL’s Expert Guidance for a Smooth Journey:

• AGCL Services offers invaluable support in navigating the complex Youth Mobility Visa application journey. Our dedicated team, well-versed in this visa category, assists you at every stage, from document preparation to online application submission. With our experienced advisors, you can confidently initiate the application process, leaving behind stress and uncertainty.

Processing Time for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

• Understanding the processing time for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is essential when planning your journey to the United Kingdom. The earliest you can initiate your visa application is six months before your intended travel date. To illustrate, if you plan to travel on the 15th of July, you can submit your application as early as the 16th of January.
• Once you have successfully completed the application, and provided all required documents, the timeframe for receiving a decision on your visa application varies depending on your location:
  • If you are outside the UK, you can typically expect a decision within 3 weeks.
  • If you are within the UK, the decision process generally takes around 8 weeks.

Please note that these processing times are indicative, and it could be varied or take longer than standard applicable time depending on individual circumstances or due to some reasons i.e., missing documents, you may be asked to appear for interview, your criminal conviction, or they need more time to verify your documents.

Duration of Stay Under the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

• The Youth Mobility Scheme Visa grants you the opportunity to reside and work in the United Kingdom for a period of up to 24 months. This substantial duration provides a valuable opportunity to explore the UK, gain work experience, and immerse yourself in British culture.
• One notable advantage of this visa is its flexibility in terms of entry and exit. While your visa is valid, you have the freedom to enter the UK at any time, as well as leave and return as often as you like during your stay. This flexibility enables you to make the most of your time in the UK, whether you plan to travel extensively or temporarily return to your home country.
• A unique provision of the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is that if you celebrate your 31st birthday after the visa is issued, you can continue to stay in the UK for the entire duration of your visa’s validity. This provision ensures that those who meet the initial age criteria can enjoy a full two years in the UK, regardless of when they reach the age of 31.
• For nationals of New Zealand, an additional opportunity awaits. After the initial two-year period, New Zealanders have the option to extend their visa for an extra year, allowing for an extended stay in the UK.
• Moreover, for citizens of Australia and Canada, starting from January 31, 2024, the visa extension option becomes available. This means that individuals from these countries can also apply to extend their Youth Mobility Scheme Visa by an additional year.

Please note that this is just a general overview of the visa validity and extension options. Please discuss your case with one of our experienced consultants for more information and obtain specific guidance around your case.

Costs Associated with the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

• Navigating the financial aspects of the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is vital to ensure a seamless application process. To successfully secure your visa, you will need to meet specific financial obligations. These include:
• Application Fee: As part of the application process, you will be required to pay an application fee. This fee, amounts to £298.
• Healthcare Surcharge: Additionally, you must fulfil the healthcare surcharge requirement, which is typically set at £470 per year. The healthcare surcharge allows you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay. The exact amount you are required to pay may vary, so it is essential to verify the specific surcharge amount that applies to your situation.
• Personal Savings: In line with the eligibility requirements, you must also demonstrate that you possess sufficient personal savings to support yourself during your stay in the UK. The precise amount required can be found in the eligibility criteria.
• Understanding and meeting these financial obligations is a critical aspect of your visa application process. By fulfilling these requirements, you not only ensure that your application proceeds smoothly but also guarantee that you have the necessary financial resources to sustain your life in the UK. This financial preparation is essential to make the most of your Youth Mobility Scheme Visa and fully enjoy your time in the United Kingdom.

Potential Other Charges

• Priority Service: This service costs an additional £500 with a decision on your application within 5 working days
• Super Priority Service: It costs £1,000 with a decision on your application by the end of the next working day
  • Please note that these fees are in addition to the standard visa application fee. The Priority and Super Priority services are designed to speed up the visa application process. However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that your application will be processed within the specified timeframe.
• Translation fees: If you need to have any documents translated into English, you will need to pay for the translation service
• Courier fees: If you need to have your passport or documents couriered to you, you will need to pay for the courier service
• English language test fees
• Tuberculosis test fees
• Medical certificate fees
• Police clearance certificate fees

Extending Your Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

• Extending your stay in the United Kingdom under the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is a possibility, but it comes with specific conditions and is only available to nationals from New Zealand. This extension provides the opportunity to prolong your stay for an additional year, allowing you to further explore the UK, gain work experience, or pursue personal goals.
• Moreover, for citizens of Australia and Canada, starting from January 31, 2024, the visa extension option becomes available. This means that individuals from these countries can also apply to extend their Youth Mobility Scheme Visa by an additional year.

To be eligible for a visa extension, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must currently reside in the UK when applying for the extension. This requirement underscores the importance of maintaining your UK residence throughout your initial visa period.
• You should hold a valid Youth Mobility Scheme visa at the time of the extension application. This means your application should align with the expiry date of your original visa.
• Your extended visa will commence from the day immediately following the expiration of your original visa, providing a seamless transition into the additional year of your stay.
• It’s essential to note that you can only extend your Youth Mobility Scheme visa once. Therefore, it is crucial to make the most of this extension if you choose to apply for it.

Application Fees and Processing Time for Extension of Youth Mobility Visa

• Application Fee: An application fee of £298 is required. This fee covers the administrative costs involved in processing your extension application.
• Immigration Health Surcharge: Additionally, you will need to pay the immigration health surcharge, which typically amounts to £470 per year. This surcharge grants you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your extended stay.
• The processing time for a visa extension application is approximately 8 weeks. However, if you wish to expedite the decision-making process, there may be an option to pay for a faster decision. This possibility will be communicated to you when you initiate your extension application.

Q1.  Can I bring my family members with me on this visa?

• No, the Youth Mobility Visa is for individuals only. You cannot bring family members or dependents with you under this visa category. Family members must apply for their own visas if they wish to join you in the UK.

Q2.  Can I study while on the Youth Mobility Visa?

• Yes, you can pursue studies in the UK while holding a Youth Mobility Visa. However, for certain courses, you may need to obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.

Q3.  Do I need to submit tuberculosis test results with my application?

• You may need to submit tuberculosis test results if you are from a country where taking a TB test is mandatory. Check the specific requirements based on your nationality.

Q4.  What am I allowed to and not allowed to do while I am on Youth Mobility Visa?

 What You Can Do:

• Study: Holders of the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa have the option to pursue studies in the UK. However, it’s important to note that for certain courses, you may need to obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate. This certificate is a prerequisite for specific academic programs and ensures that you meet the necessary academic requirements.
• Work: One of the primary benefits of this visa is the ability to work in a wide range of jobs in the UK. Whether you seek employment to gain experience or support your stay, you have the freedom to engage in most forms of work.
• Self-Employment: You can explore entrepreneurial endeavors and establish your own company while holding this visa. There are, however, specific conditions to meet, such as renting premises, ensuring your equipment’s value does not exceed £5,000, and operating without employees.

What You Cannot Do:

• Professional Sportsperson: This visa category does not permit you to work as a professional sportsperson, such as a coach. It is essential to understand the limitations regarding involvement in professional sports while on this visa.
• Extension of Stay: Unless you are from New Zealand, extending your stay beyond the initial visa duration is generally not possible. New Zealand nationals, as mentioned earlier, have a unique opportunity to extend their visa by one year after the initial two-year period.
• Access Public Funds: You are not eligible to receive public funds or benefits while on the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa. This means that you are expected to finance your stay in the UK independently and are not entitled to financial assistance from the UK government.
• Family Members: You cannot include family members in your visa application. If your family members wish to join you in the UK, they must submit separate visa applications that align with their specific circumstances and intentions.

Q5.What are the financial requirements for this visa?

• To qualify for the Youth Mobility Visa, applicants must demonstrate that they possess at least £2,530 in savings. These funds should be available for a continuous 28-day period, with the 28th day falling within 31 days of your visa application.

Q6.  Can I extend my stay in the UK under this visa?

• Extension options vary by nationality. As of 29 June 2023, New Zealand nationals can apply to stay for one additional year, while Australian and Canadian nationals may have similar options from 31 January 2024.

Q7.  Can I leave and re-enter the UK during my stay?

• Yes, you are allowed to leave and re-enter the UK at any time during your Youth Mobility Visa’s validity period.

Q8.  Is there an age limit for this visa?

• Yes, the age limit for the Youth Mobility Visa is generally 30 years old, except for New Zealand nationals who can apply until they are 35.

Q9.  What happens if I turn 31 during my stay in the UK?

• If you turn 31 while your Youth Mobility Visa is still valid, you can continue to stay in the UK until your visa expires.

Q10.  Can I switch to another immigration category while on this visa?

• Typically, you cannot switch to another immigration category from the Youth Mobility Visa. If you wish to change your immigration status, you may need to leave the UK and apply for a different visa from your home country.

 In conclusion, navigating the UK immigration system can be complex, hence it’s essential to have expert guidance throughout the process. At AGCL Services, our immigration experts are here to guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand visa fees, additional charges, priority services, FAQs, and the advantages of holding this visa and are committed to helping you achieve your immigration goals and ensuring a smooth and successful visa application procession for you.