How to get a UK Youth Mobility Scheme visa (for all nationalities)

Chapter 2 of 2

Visa applications are never fun, but if you know what steps to anticipate, it doesn’t have to be complicated.

In this chapter, we will walk through where to fill out the application form, what supporting documents to gather, and how to submit everything.

1. Check the quota

First, you may want to first confirm with the British authorities of your jurisdiction that the annual YMS quota for your nationality has not yet been reached. Here are the annual quotas for a few nationalities:

• Australia: 45,000
• Canada: 8,000
• Hong Kong: 1,000
• New Zealand: 8,500
• For all other nationalities’ quotas, check the official website.

Annual quotas do not change significantly year to year, if at all.

If there are no more available spots left, unfortunately you will have to wait until the following program year to apply. For the best chances, apply early in the program year, as applications are processed on a first come first serve basis.

2. Create an account

Before starting your application, you need to create an account on the online portal. Go to the official YMS website and click “Apply online”.

The website will tell you that as a part of the application process, you will need to go to a visa application centre to have your biometrics collected. Check which centre you plan to go to. If there isn’t one in your city, you should be prepared to travel to the nearest centre at your own expense.

• Australia: VFS Global aus
• Canada: VFS Global can
• Hong Kong: VFS Global hkg
• New Zealand: VFS Global nzl
• All other countries

You don’t need to worry about the visa application centre until after your online application is complete. Proceed to creating an account to officially start your application. You should apply no earlier than 6 months prior to your intended date of arrival.

3. Fill in your application

Step by step fill in the fields that the online form asks for. Answer truthfully and to the best of your ability.

Once you get to the Documents section, you will be asked which supporting documents you plan to provide. Make sure to fill this out accurately before proceeding to Declaration and Pay sections.

For a two-year YMS visa application, you should be prepared to pay a total of at least £1850 upfront. This includes the

• £298 application fee,
• and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year. This gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service, so you are not obligated to buy separate private health insurance. In the unlikely event that your application is rejected, the IHS will be refunded to you.

Finally, carefully read and follow the instructions in the final Further actions section. Consider saving this page.

4. Visit a visa application centre

Your application is not fully complete until you’ve visited a visa application centre (listed in step 2) to get your biometrics collected (fingerprints and headshots). An appointment is likely required. Bring all required supporting documents, including your passport and proof of funds (at least £2530 or the equivalent in another currency).

Be sure to follow any other instructions that were listed in the Further actions section of the application portal.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve submitted your application! According to the British authorities, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.

Please consider sharing your application experience in the comments below so that other applications from your country can know what to expect.