Working holiday in United Kingdom
The United Kingdom does not call it a working holiday: its scheme is the Youth Mobility Scheme, which lets you live and work for up to 24 months. It is open to twelve countries and territories and to some categories of British nationality. India has a separate scheme.
Youth Mobility Scheme visa
- Stay
- 24 months
- Fee
- 340 GBPYou also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, usually £776 per year.
- Funds
- 2,530 GBPThe money must have been in your account for at least 28 days in a row, with day 28 falling within 31 days of applying.
Common requirements
- Have no children under 18 who live with you or whom you support, and not have been in the UK under the scheme before.
- You can apply up to 6 months before travelling; a decision usually takes 3 weeks.
- You can study and work in most jobs, except as a professional sportsperson, and you cannot get public funds.
Eligible passports (12)
| Passport | Age | Country-specific conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Andorra | 18 to 30 | Common requirements only |
| Australia | 18 to 35 | It can be extended by one more year after the first two. |
| Canada | 18 to 35 | It can be extended by one more year after the first two. |
| Hong Kong | 18 to 30 | You must first be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot. |
| Iceland | 18 to 30 | Common requirements only |
| Japan | 18 to 30 | Common requirements only |
| Monaco | 18 to 30 | Common requirements only |
| New Zealand | 18 to 35 | It can be extended by one more year after the first two. |
| San Marino | 18 to 30 | Common requirements only |
| South Korea | 18 to 35 | Common requirements only |
| Taiwan | 18 to 30 | You must first be selected in the Youth Mobility Scheme ballot. |
| Uruguay | 18 to 30 | Common requirements only |
Checked on 29 October 2026. Sources: GOV.UK: "Youth Mobility Scheme visa" ("Overview" and "Eligibility" sections), with the £340 fee, the health surcharge, the £2,530 savings, the 24-month duration and the list of countries by age. Checked on 29 October 2026. Places and dates change every year, so confirm on the official page before paying.
Informational only. Always verify requirements with the official embassy or consulate before you travel.