The Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) in the UK allows young people from specified countries to temporarily live and work here, which is better known as a Working Holiday Visa. The visa allows young travelers the opportunity to experience international work, explore British culture, and fund their travels.
Here is all you need to know if you are planning to apply for this visa in 2025.
What is the UK Working Holiday Maker Visa?
Officially, the Working Holiday Maker Visa in the UK is called the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa (YMS). It lets young people of some countries live, work and travel in the UK for as long as two years. This visa is suited for those who want to experience life in Britain whilst still being able to work and support themselves.
The scheme is not a full work visa, so you do not need an employer to sponsor you. Most employment and even study is open to holders, making it a flexible and attractive option.
Eligibility Criteria for the Youth Mobility Scheme
You need to fulfil the following conditions in order to apply for this visa:
Age: 18 to 30 years old (or as old as 35 for some nationalities)
Nationality: You must come from an eligible country. The countries included as of 2025 are:
Australia
Canada
New Zealand
Japan
Monaco
Taiwan
Hong Kong
South Korea
Iceland
San Marino
British Overseas Citizens
India (via a ballot system)
– (added in 2024) Uruguay
Proof of means: You need to be able to prove that you have at least £2,530 available in savings.
No Dependents: You’re not allowed to apply if you have kids living with you or if you are financially supporting a child.
Certain nationalities, including Indian applicants, must go through a ballot system before applying. Two random selection draws are held by the UK Government annually for Indian citizens.
Section 1: How to Apply for the UK Working Holiday Visa
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Make sure that you qualify in terms of age, nationality, and financial savings.
Step 2: Gather Documents
You will need:
A valid passport
Bank statement with at least £2,530 in savings
A result for a tuberculosis (TB) test (if needed for your country)
If you are applying from outside your home country, proof of residence
Step 3: Apply Online
Proceed to the UK government site to apply, along with your fees.
Step 4: Pay Fees
Application Fee: £298
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): ~£1,035/year (entitles you to NHS healthcare)
Step 5: Go to a Biometric Appointment
You will have to attend a UK visa application center to give your fingerprints and photograph.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
The processing times are usually three to eight weeks.
UK Working Holiday Visa Jobs You Can Work
This visa allows you to work in most jobs which includes:
Hospitality (hotels, cafes, bars, restaurants)
Retail (stores, supermarkets)
Remote work (office jobs such as admin, customer service)
Warehouse and logistics
Teaching assistant roles
Freelance and remote work
Restrictions:
You cannot be a professional sportsperson.
This visa cannot be issued for a period longer than two years.
Advantages Of UK Working Holiday Visa
Travel & Work: Explore the UK whilst getting paid.
No sponsorship: Unlike with a skilled worker visa, you don’t need a job offer.
Live anywhere in the UK: Pick a city like London, Manchester, Edinburgh or Bristol.
Awesome for Career Growth: International work experience to boost your CV.Simple to Apply: Much simpler than other visas
Challenges and Considerations
High Cost of Living — London and similar cities are expensive
Temporary: It lasts a total of two years, and it is not possible to renew.
Visa Lottery for Certain Countries: Certain applicants (like those from India) are required to apply in a lottery.
Other Options Through Which You Can Work in the UK on Holiday
If you’re not a candidate for the Youth Mobility Scheme, think about:
Skilled Worker Visa: Needs to be sponsored for a job by a UK employer.
Student Visa — For studying and part-time work.
Ancestry Visa: If you have a grandparent born in the UK.
Temporary Worker Visa: For short-term work contracts
The UK Working Holiday Visa (Youth Mobility Scheme) is a great way for young people to live and work in the UK while getting a taste of the country. It’s an opportunity for flexibility, international work experience, and a good way to experience British culture.
