UK Youth Mobility Scheme for Australia and New Zealand Nationals

The Youth Mobility Scheme visa is a great opportunity to work and travel in the UK, it allows young people from Australia and New Zealand to live and explore around the country for up to three years. The UK recently negotiated a trade deal with the Australia and New Zealand governments which includes making it easier for young adults to live and work in the UK. The age range has been expanded five years from 18-30 to 18-35 and the length of stay increased to three years rather than two. These changes will take effect from the 31st January 2024.

WHy explore the UK as an Aussie or Kiwi?

Once part of the British Empire, Australia and New Zealand have long cultural and economic ties with the United Kingdom. The UK is one of the best countries in the world to develop your career, with high salaries, development opportunities and big business that have established themselves here. The Youth Mobility Scheme is ideal as it lets you work for these companies in order to prove yourself for a longer term visa, in which they can sponsor you. International work experience also stands out on a CV/Resume with future employers, if you decide to return to Australia or New Zealand.

Here are some reasons why you should try the Youth Mobility Scheme in the UK.

Historical Sightseeing

The UK is home to numerous historical landmarks and cultural sites, including iconic attractions like Stonehenge, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Edinburgh Castle, and the Roman Baths.

Stunning Scenery

From the picturesque countryside of the Cotswold’s and Lake District to the rugged coastline of Cornwall and the Scottish Highlands, the UK is blessed with diverse and beautiful landscapes. Hiking, cycling, and road trips are popular activities.

Great Festivals

The UK hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. From the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest performance arts festival, to the Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s biggest street festival, there are celebrations and events to suit a wide range of interests.

Eligibility for Youth Mobility Scheme

In order to qualify for this visa you must meet several minimum requirements.

• You must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen
• £2530 minimum of savings (AUD 4,800 as of July 2023)
• First time applicant

Eligible Countries

• Australia
• New Zealand

Youth Mobility Scheme Cost

You must have sufficient funds when applying for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, the total minimum costs will vary depending on your circumstances.

Application Fee

£259

Healthcare

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) entitles you to use the NHS if you become unwell or have an accident while in the UK.

You have to pay the IHS even if you do not use the NHS or even if you have your own private health insurance, the cost is £470 per year.

If you are applying for a 2-year visa you will have to pay £470 each year, therefore you will have to pay a total of £940.

Sufficient Funds

You must have at least £2,530 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK, a bank statement will suffice.

The financial requirement is to show you have enough money for your living costs.

Documentation for Youth Mobility Scheme

You must bring relevant documentation that will require some preparation before arriving in the UK. Although, This will vary depending on your occupation, nationality and length of stay.

• A valid passport for the entirety of the visa
• Bank statement proving sufficient funds

Criminal Record Certificate

If you are applying for certain jobs mostly in the public sector such as healthcare, welfare and education sectors. You will need to provide a criminal record certificate for any country in which, since the age of 18, you have been present for 12 months or more in the 10 years before the date of your application.

Identity

For most applicants you must prove your identity by booking an appointment at a Visa Application Centre in your current country. The appointment will include collecting your fingerprints, facial photograph and signature. The UK government website has a list of addresses for each eligible country.

Can I bring my family?

This visa does not allow any family members to join directly, they would have to apply for their own individual visa.

Can this lead to British citizenship?

This visa does not count towards becoming a British citizen, only work visas will contribute towards this. The Youth Mobility Scheme however does allow you to work and build relationships with employers who will sponsor you after the visa ends. This is an advantage over applicants who have never worked in the UK and are applying abroad.

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