UK Youth Mobility Scheme (working holiday) visa

Nationals of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Korea qualify at 18 to 35. Nationals of Andorra, Iceland, Japan, Monaco, San Marino and Uruguay qualify at 18 to 30, as do Hong Kong SAR and Taiwan passport holders selected in the ballot, and British overseas citizens, British overseas territories citizens and British nationals (overseas). Indian nationals have a separate Young Professionals Scheme.

Nationals of countries without a youth mobility arrangement can use the scheme only through a second, eligible nationality; otherwise they need a work route such as Skilled Worker.

The age limit applies when you apply. You cannot have children under 18 living with you or depending on you, or have used the scheme before. Some applicants need a tuberculosis test, and Andorra, Iceland and Uruguay nationals a criminal record certificate (San Marino: a suitability letter) issued within 6 months.

You need £2,530 in your bank account for 28 days in a row, with day 28 within 31 days of applying.

The fee is £340 and the health surcharge usually £776 a year, so a 2-year visa costs £340 plus £1,552.

Apply online from outside the UK up to 6 months before travel, then prove your identity through the ID Check app or at a visa application centre. Decisions usually take 3 weeks.

You can enter at any time while the visa is valid, travel in and out, work in most jobs and study. Self-employment is allowed with rented premises, equipment worth £5,000 or less and no employees. Professional sport, coaching included, and public funds are excluded.

Only Australians, Canadians and New Zealanders can extend, once, by 1 year: apply from inside the UK within 28 days of expiry, pay £340 plus £776, and expect a decision within 8 weeks.

Partners cannot be added and need their own visa. A refusal can be challenged by administrative review within 28 days for £80.