November 6. 2008 01:02

i interested in yms from india.

MUSTUFA

November 6. 2008 01:08

Hi Mustufa,

Unfortunately India are not a participating country in the YMS scheme.

Stephen Atkinson

November 6. 2008 09:58

Hi,

I am currently on a Working Holiday Maker Visa and I am extremely happy for upcoming young australians to have the flexibility with the new visa Tier 5. However, I am also very annoyed since I have only been on the WHM for 5 months and have restrictions regarding work which is proving very difficult especially with the credit crisis.
Will there be a review of existing WHM visa holders to take the restrictions off the remainder of our visa's? Not asking for it to be extended or reimbursement of funds, but surely the work restriction to be lifted does not seem unreasonable?

Your reply would be much appreciated.

Kristy

November 8. 2008 04:05

i like to go to australia or uk for work am a nigeria citizen but am in south africa now

adebowale

November 8. 2008 04:05

what can i do?

adebowale

November 10. 2008 05:21

Hi Kristy,

Unfortunately it seems there will not be a review of the Tier 5 YMS policy at any stage in the near future.

Stephen Atkinson

November 10. 2008 05:23

Hi Adebowale,

I suggest you contact our Cape Town office on 0800 003 163 for further advice and eligibility assessments.

Stephen Atkinson

November 12. 2008 06:01

Hi

I am a 27 year South African citizen looking to go abroad..Are there any YMS or WHV programs that I can participate in? Since the UK is no longer an option...

Please advise

Chris

November 12. 2008 08:26

Hi Chris,

Unfortunately we only specialise in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canadian visas and immigration, to which there is no WHV/YMS option available any more for SA citizens - sorry!

Stephen Atkinson

November 12. 2008 13:23

Hello, is it possible to apply on line for the new permit before 27th november, and pre-book the appointment for biometric data etc for 27th November? I am trying to help a friend in Adelaide get her visa as quickly as possible. She needs to travel in early January.
Any advice on how to obtain the visa as quickly as possible would be enormously appreciated.
Many thanks indeed.
Laura

Laura Pike

November 13. 2008 01:30

Hi Laura,

Unfortunately the online application for Tier 5 YMS will not be available until the go-live date of 27/11/2008. I suggest you contact our Australian office on visasuk@1stcontact.com or by phone on 03 8651 4503 or 1800 835 148.

Regards,
Stephen Atkinson
Immigration Manager
1st Contact Visas
Direct: +44 207 759 5350
www.1stcontactvisas.com

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 9:00am to 6:00pm GMT, Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm GMT

1st Contact Visas are regulated and authorised to provide immigration services by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner. Registered No. F2001-00004.

Stephen Atkinson

November 13. 2008 13:14

Hi there, my husband and I are heading over to London in May 09, I qualify for the Tier 1 visa and my husband was going to come as a dependent, however with the introduction of the YMS, can he apply for that while I still apply for the Tier 1? The difference in cost is vast. I don't qualify for the YMS because I'm not a NZ citizen (hubby is) and we really want to be able to work for at least 2 years over in the UK. Thanks for your help.

Cynthia

November 14. 2008 02:06

Hi Cynthia,

If I can make a suggestion - it would be far better for your husband to be a dependent on your Tier 1 visa for numerous reasons. Firstly, your Tier 1 visa will be issued for 3 years, whereas the YMS is only for 2, so there will come a time where your husband would need to apply and qualify for a new visa to stay with you. Secondly, should you wish to extend your Tier 1 after the 3 years, there is no additional fee to extend your dependent's visa if they are already a dependent on you. Lastly, the YMS is viewed as a 'backpacker' type visa, so can be quite limiting in regards to obtaining professional employment.

I suggest you contact our office in Melbourne regarding the application process, costs and timings etc.

visasuk@1stcontact.com
Ph: +61 3 8651 4503

I hope this has assisted.

Regards,
Stephen Atkinson
Immigration Manager
1st Contact Visas
Direct: +44 207 759 5350
www.1stcontactvisas.com

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 9:00am to 6:00pm GMT, Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm GMT

1st Contact Visas are regulated and authorised to provide immigration services by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner. Registered No. F2001-00004.

Stephen Atkinson

November 24. 2008 03:42

Hello, I am a United States citizen and have been really hoping for the U.S to come through and come to an agreement with the United Kingdom. Unfortunately the U.S. is not on the list.

Is there still a chance the United States will join in? Have there been any rumors? I know from the beginning it was their intention to join in on the scheme but I have heard they couldn't come to an agreement and they backed out.

Is it possible the list will grow largely and the United States could be on the list when the YMS goes live on the 27th of November?

Please give me some hope!

Deanna

Deanna

November 24. 2008 08:40

Hi Deanna,

I know that a deal was close to being struck for the new Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme for US citizens, but I believe negotiations broke down over quota numbers the US wanted to place on UK citizens in a reciprocal arrangement.

I'm afraid it is a watch this space situation at present.

Stephen Atkinson

November 24. 2008 09:28

Hello,

I am Youth Programme Manager in an agency in Croatia with au pair programme as a core business. Please tell me (I couldn't get the information anywhere!) if there have been negotiations with Croatia about participating in the YMS? We have been placing au pairs in the UK for 18 years, is it really that there is no other chance for candidates from non participating countries to come to the UK as au pairs?

Many thanks!

Kind regards

Alida

Alida

November 24. 2008 20:34

Hi,

I am an Australian citizen planning to travel to the UK on the new Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme next year. I have a British partner here in Australia, and will be traveling back with him, and then travelling through Europe togerther. Will it be a good idea to mention him when I am applying for my Visa and during any possible immigration interview at the airport or shall I just mention that I am traveling alone?

Grace

November 25. 2008 04:14

Hi Alida,

Unfortunately the negotiations between countries regarding the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme are not published in the public domain.

You could direct your enquiry to the Policy Team within the UK Border Agency - PBSOperationalPolicy@ind.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk – however I am not sure you would receive a favourable response!

Regards,
Stephen Atkinson
Immigration Manager
1st Contact Visas
Direct: +44 207 759 5350
www.1stcontactvisas.com

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 9:00am to 6:00pm GMT, Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm GMT

1st Contact Visas are regulated and authorised to provide immigration services by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner. Registered No. F2001-00004.

Stephen Atkinson

November 25. 2008 04:17

Hi Grace,

I suggest you get in contact with our Melbourne office regarding your query on visasuk@1stcontact.com or via phone on 03 8651 4503 or 1800 835 148, as they will be up-to-date regarding the requirements of the Tier 5 visa.

Stephen Atkinson

November 25. 2008 04:41

I am Indian want to apply in UK under YMS scheme. Is it possible by taking Indian govenment spnsorship certificate or not please let me know.

Pankaj Patel

PANKAJ

November 25. 2008 05:55

Hi Pankaj,

Unfortunately India are not a participating country in the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme visa programme. The only countries currently with deemed sponsor status are Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Japan. As further countries join the programme, we will update our site.

Stephen Atkinson

November 27. 2008 00:07

Will South Africa ever be included?

Stevo

November 27. 2008 00:16

Hi Stevo,

At this stage it is unlikely that South Africa will be included.

Stephen Atkinson

December 1. 2008 05:36

Hi,
I am currently applying for a visa under the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme visa programme and intent to leave on March 15. I'm a little confused with a few things because different sites say different things.
I've noticed that your site states that proof of 1600 pounds is required for 3 months, whereas other sites are either vague or say no more than 1 month prior. which is correct?
Can you tell me if a credit card is still classed as acceptable in regards to maintenance?
I currently have the correct amount in savings, but have not held it for 3 months. If accepted, my credit card will show the correct amount over the 3 month period.
Any info would be much appreciates.
Thanks,
Tim

Tim

December 1. 2008 06:40

Hi Tim,

Thank you for your enquiry.

When the article was written, it was potentially a requirement to have held the funds for 3 months, so we were simply pro-actively advising applicants.

Since the official guidance was released last week, it is only a requirement that you hold the funds at the time of application, rather than the entire 3 months prior.

Unfortunately a credit card is not counted as proof of maintenance, as it technically is not your money!

I hope this has clarified things for you.

Stephen Atkinson

December 6. 2008 17:48

Hi Stephen,

I am from Australia and I have recently applied for the YMS. I am going to the uk at the end of feb and hoping to find work in teaching for a while before i do a bit of traveling around europe.
Will it be hard to get a teaching job because I am on the YMS. And if I do end up liking my teaching job and want to stay in it even after 2 years, what happens then?
Thanks

Zoe

December 8. 2008 05:57

Hi Zoe,

Unfortunately we are not in recruitment, so it is very difficult for me to comment on your employability on your arrival in the UK.

It is also hard for me to predict what the immigration laws and policies will be in 2 years time. Most skilled migrants would apply for the Tier 1 (General) visa, which is for degree qualified individuals who meet the points criteria at the time of applying.

Stephen Atkinson

December 14. 2008 23:28

can you apply for the yms if you have already had a work visa????

josh

December 15. 2008 19:43

What are the guidelines around applying for a Tier 5 youth mobility visa with minor/non viloent criminal convictions.

Minor mishap in my younger days..

Thanks Stephen.

Regard,

Kyle

Kyle

December 16. 2008 03:47

Hi Josh,

What type of 'work' visa are you referring to? Are you asking if you can apply for the YMS if you have already held a working holiday visa in the past? If so, unfortunately you cannot apply for the YMS - it is for new participants only I'm afraid...

Stephen Atkinson

December 16. 2008 03:49

Hi Kyle,

Unfortunately this will be at the discretion of the entry clearance officer at the British High Commission or Embassy in your home country - it is impossible for me to answer this one for you, sorry!

Stephen Atkinson

December 16. 2008 12:25

I understand.
Would it be any benefit to go in and see them personally?


Thanks Stephen.

Kyle

December 18. 2008 00:23

Hi,

I was wondernig as to how long the application process takes for the Youth Mobility Visa to be processed if completing an on line application??

Thanks.

Michael

December 18. 2008 04:20

Hi Michael,

Unfortunately, as Tier 5 only went live on 27 November 2008, it has not been possible for us to ascertain average processing times as yet.

Please do not hesitate to contact our Oz office in Melbourne on 1800 835 148 for further assistance.

Stephen Atkinson

December 18. 2008 08:36

Hi,
I am sanjay a bangladeshi citizen now studying in sweden.I would like to apply YMS scheme is it possible for me.

sanjay

December 23. 2008 03:59

hi am darshan

i could like to know is any chance to add India in youth mobility scheme in near future

i want to know that is there any alternate for working holiday maker visa scheme for india.how can i will be eligible for uk work permit

darshan

December 24. 2008 02:16

Hi, i am an australian heading to the uk on march 31st i am currently in the process of organising a visa but im really getting confused about the application.. i have completed and printed my application and have an appointment for january but there are a few different forms i think that i also need to print statin some personal details and bank details...but when i look on what document i need to bring it doesnt state this, im also confused with the funds i need to have as i dont currently have all the funds but will by feb as i am selling my car, will this be acceptable. plede help im so stressed and confused...
cheers

Bree

December 30. 2008 06:32

Hi
Im from SA,my Grandmother was born in the Uk,but she immigrated here to SA this year,so im not sure if i can apply for the ancestry visa,because she immigrated,'giving up' her uk citizenhip or just immigrated...is there a diffirence?
I know she had to apply for a visa the other day when she wanted to visit her daughter in london..

Craig

December 30. 2008 06:34

Sorry me again,the main reason i want to work abroad,is to work and travel,and then near the end of the visa time,i want to join the Royal Marines,because i have to apply in the Uk at their offices

Craig

December 31. 2008 22:19

Hi,

I am an Aus citizen and would like to enquire about the number of visas Aus was allocated this year? Does the number reset at the beginning of Jan 09 again? I just wanted to make sure that if I submit my application and pay the vac fee, it won't be refused on the grounds that Australia had exceeded it's allocated quota for the year. Pls help - Thank you

cathy

January 1. 2009 12:36

Hi,

I just wanted to ask if it was possible to apply for the YMS now even though my intended departure date isn't until the end of this year (dec)2009? I am just worried about the quota of visas being exceeded if I leave my application too late? I can't find anywhere in the uk guidance sheet about the conditions of the intended arrival date to the uk(ie.the intended date of arrival must be within 3 months from the date of your appplication?) Pls help. Thank you very much.

cathy

January 2. 2009 03:35

Hi Cathy,

Thank you for your enquiries.

The visa allocation figures are available via the Freedom of Information Act - http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/navigation/foi/.

It is unlikely that Australia would exceed it's allocation or quota.

To answer your second query, you should only submit an application when you are within 3 months of your intended departure date.

For further information on the Tier 5 YMS visa, please contact our Australian office on visasuk@1stcontact.com or 1800 835 148.

Stephen Atkinson

January 3. 2009 06:06

Dear Stephen,

Thank you very much for your prompt response, the information you provided was very useful!

regards

cathy

January 7. 2009 08:26

hi,

I am a Canadian citizen currently on a tourist visa in Poland that allows me to stay for three months. I want to apply for the youth mobility (tier 5) visa in the UK, can I apply while I am in Poland?

I've checked few website and have found: (the ‘entry clearance post’ in the country you want to apply from is authorised to process Youth Mobility applications)

Does Poland have an entry clearance post that is able to process my application?

If not, what options do I have, besides taking the long trip back to canada?

thanks for your time

scott

January 10. 2009 02:05

Hi

I am a South African wanting to go to the UK. I know that we dont qualify for the working holiday visa anymore, but my boyfriend has a UK Ancestral Visa. What are our options? Is there any way that I can go as his dependent? Also, neither of us have any qualifications, are there any other countries we can try if not the UK?

Thanks

Cathy

January 13. 2009 20:17

Hi,

I wish to apply for the YMS 2 year visa, however, I plan to travel the USA and Canada for some 3 months prior to arriving in the UK.

I will need my visa approved before I can leave Australia, but I understand the British High Commission won't grant visa's any earlier than 3 months prior to your arrival in the UK.

So if I plan to leave Australia 3 months prior to arriving in the UK then I will be outside the application time frame and the visa will be refused on the grounds that I applied too early.

Is there any way around this loophole?

Alicia

January 14. 2009 03:54

Hi Alicia,

Thank you for your enquiry.

Unfortunately this is a requirement set down by the UK policymakers in relation to issuing visas. At present they are being extremely rigid and inflexible in relation to current immigration law and policy.

Please contact our Australian office on 1800 835 148 or visasuk@1stcontact.com for further information and guidance.

Stephen Atkinson

January 21. 2009 20:17

Hi

I am an Australian and was granted a UK and an Irish working holiday visa last year. I have spent the last year in Ireland on my WHV and have not used the UK WHV. I would now like to apply for the YMS instead. I did get my passport stamped with a holiday visa on my way through Heathrow to Ireland (it was a week before my WHV was to start and was a connecting flight)so there is nothing stamped on my UK WHV. I just wanted to make sure that it hasn't been activated in any way before i apply for the new one as i was told that once i apply for YMS they will cancel the unused WHV no matter what.

Also I wanted to know if I need to have all of the 1600 pounds in my account when i apply and pay online? I have nearly all of it and will have it all by the time i send it off with my biometric details but do they need to see it was there when you make the original application online? I also turn 31 in a month so i have a bit of a deadline!

Thanks
Jen

Jennifer

January 22. 2009 02:33

Hi Jen,

Thank you for your enquiry.

As you never activated or utilised your current UK working holiday visa, you should be eligible to apply for the new Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme visa.

You do need to satisfy the full maintenance requirement on submission of your application, so the £1600 must be in your account when you send the application in - rather than when you complete the online application form.

Are you returning home to apply? I am unsure if your application will be accepted whilst you are still in Ireland on a temporary visa status - please check this with the British Embassy in Dublin as to whether they can accept your application.

I trust this has assisted.

Regards,
Stephen Atkinson
Immigration Manager
1st Contact Visas
www.1stcontactvisas.com

Opening Hours : Monday to Thursday 9:00am to 6:00pm GMT, Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm GMT.

Contracting in the UK? Let us handle all that red tape for you. One low flat-rate fee with no extra charges. 1st Contact Umbrella – 0808 178 8634

Stephen Atkinson

January 22. 2009 17:41

Hello,

I, like many am dismayed over the fact that US citizens can not apply for a Tier 5 YMS visa.

Currently I am finishing up my final year at a University in the States (B.A. degree in Political Science) and I would like to go to the UK for 1-2 years and work.

I have spent a great deal of time in Scotland. I love the country & the people and I want to go back and work there. I have a great group of friends there, and a boyfriend who I'd like to see on a daily basis, instead of continuing to do the long distance thing. I've studied abroad at the University of Edinburgh for a semester (fall '07) and I've participated in the BUNAC program in Scotland last the summer (summer '08)

I really don't see how I can work in Scotland seeing as the BUNAC program is closed and United States citizens do not qualify for Tier 5 YMS. Is there something I'm missing? Is there anyway that I qualify for another type of visa program? Are there any changes in the future?

Also: looking at BUNAC's website, it seems that UK residents can still work in the US for four months. Is this program going to end soon? How can UK residents work in the US but US residents can't work in the UK?

Any assistance provided is most appreciated.

Cheers!

-Alyssa

Alyssa

January 22. 2009 22:43

Thanks Stephen! I am currently back in Australia and will apply while over here.

Jen

Jen

January 23. 2009 02:34

Hi Alyssa,

Yes it is unfortunate that the US & UK Governments could not reach an agreement relating to the Tier 5 YMS scheme. Perhaps you and your friends in similar situations could write to your local politician expressing your dismay at the US being excluded? Of course, this would mean that the US would need to have a reciprocal visa stream for the youth of Britain to take a working holiday/gap year in the States of at least 12 months...

Please let us know should you require any further details, specifically relating to the Tier 1 highly skilled migrant visa, which is for degree qualified graduates who have earned over a certain amount of earnings based on their age.

Stephen Atkinson

January 25. 2009 19:46

Hi,

With the new YMS Scheme am I correct in saying that you only have to APPLY for the visa before you are 31years old, which means that you do not have to enter the UK before you are 30yrs old.

Thank you.

Michelle

Michelle

January 26. 2009 09:22

Hi Michelle,

The application for Tier 5 YMS must be submitted before your 31st birthday. Our London office can assist you should you be applying in either Canada or Japan and our Melbourne office can help with applications made in Australia or New Zealand.

Please let me know should you require any further information.

Stephen Atkinson

January 29. 2009 02:39

Hi there

I am from Australia and really interested in applying for a YMS visa to go to the UK. When I apply I will have the 1600 pounds in my account no problems.

But I have a few personal loans in Australia which require me to make monthly payments. I have heard anecdotally this may count against my application, but I can't find anything official to say that this would even be assessed as part of my application. So I was just wondering if you could shed any light on this?

Thanks Emily

Emily

January 30. 2009 14:20

Hi,

I am Canadian and would like to apply for the 5 tier Youth Mobility Scheme and work in the U.K.

I would like to start working in August of this year (2009) so when is it best to apply, now? and nearer the time?

thankyou
Kati

Kati Stroh

February 2. 2009 04:41

Hi Kati,

Thank you for your enquiry regarding the new Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa, which replaces the working holiday visa.

This category was implemented on 27 November 2008.

This visa will grant nationals of participating countries 24 months entry into the UK with employment rights for the full duration of your stay. You may not conduct business or be a professional sportsperson.

You may not participate in the YMS if you have dependant children or have previously spent time in the United Kingdom as a working holidaymaker. This means that you are not able to extend the employment restriction if you currently hold a working holiday visa.

Please let us know should you require assistance with your application

Stephen Atkinson

February 4. 2009 06:25

Hi Stephen,

I am currently on a Canadian WHM visa and have been living and working in the UK for 6 months. Can you please confirm for me that once my current 12 months of work experience has been used up I am able to apply for the Tier 5 Mobility visa whilst still living in the UK. Or will I now be eligible to stay and work for 24 months with my current visa? I would like to know what my options are for remaining and working in this country. Also - am I able to apply for a Tier 5 Mobility Visa for any other country once my current visa expires.

Many thanks.

Alison

February 4. 2009 07:12

Hi Alison,

Thank you for your enquiry regarding the new UK Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa, which replaces the working holiday visa.

The Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa category was implemented on 27 November 2008.

The Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa will grant nationals of participating countries 24 months entry into the UK with employment rights for the full duration of your stay. You may not conduct business or be a professional sportsperson.

You may not participate in the YMS if you have dependant children or have previously spent time in the United Kingdom as a working holidaymaker. This means that you are not able to extend the employment restriction if you currently hold a working holiday visa.

As a Canadian citizen, would you be interested in a working holiday to either Australia or New Zealand? If so, we can assist you with these applications - please let me know.

Further to this, you may be eligible for the Tier 1 visa (formerly the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme or HSMP visa) - as long as you are degree qualified, this could be an option for you.

I trust this has assisted.

Regards,
Stephen Atkinson
Immigration Manager
1st Contact Visas
Ph : 0800 039 3076 (Freecall within the UK)
www.1stcontactvisas.com

Opening Hours : Monday to Thursday 9:00am to 6:00pm GMT, Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm GMT.

Contracting in the UK? Let us handle all that red tape for you. One low flat-rate fee with no extra charges. 1st Contact Umbrella – 0808 178 8634

Stephen Atkinson

February 6. 2009 13:09

I am a Ghanaian and a student currently reading my masters degree.I will like to know if there are any working holiday visa for we students down here in UK particular.
I will also like to know if there working holiday visas for students in Ghana for countries such as Canada,Australia,New Zealand and the UK..
thanks.I'm 25 years old.

Joseph

February 10. 2009 03:21

Hi Joseph,

Unfortunately Ghana do not participate in the working holiday scheme for the UK, nor any of the other countries you have mentioned.

Please contact our office on saoffice@1stcontact.com or +27 21 657 2180 for advice on other employment visas for the UK, Australia and New Zealand.

Stephen Atkinson

February 22. 2009 09:47

Hi, am a university students in Ghana, and I would like to know if Ghana is part of the new scheme which is the youth mobility scheme because we were part of the working holiday scheme.
I want to take part in the new scheme this year, so i would like to have an insight about it.

Thank you

Pearl

February 25. 2009 09:31

Hi,

I am from india.

If any employer sponsor me for a job in UK also send me a offer letter...so can i get work visa for uk?? If Job in Hotel.

Plz reply.

Prg

March 7. 2009 02:02

Hi there,
I have submitted my online visa app and I have my appointment on the 9th of march for the biometric details...I was just wondering approx how long does it take before I am accepted? I would like to be in the UK by end of April, early May.

Thanks for your help!

CanadianEh?

March 9. 2009 08:45

Hi quick and simple question.

How long does the 1600 pounds have to be in your account when you apply? My parents gave me 1600 as a gift last week and i want to apply asap, is this possible or do I have to wait for a month?

thanks so much

edna

March 9. 2009 10:31

hello, i recieved 1600 pounds as a gift a week ago so i can apply for th YMS. can i apply immediately or do i have to wait a month for the money to sit in my account?

thanks so much!!

edna

March 9. 2009 15:26

Edna,
As far as I know, the money has to be in your account from the day you submit your application. Read the above inquiries as there are a few that are similar to your own that Stephen Atkinson has replied to.

CanadianEh?

March 9. 2009 18:49

I heard that due to the credit crunch, a limited number of YMS visas were being issued? Is this true?

Em

March 10. 2009 05:15

Hi Em,

Thank you for your comment.

Each country with Deemed Sponsor status (ie Australia, Canada, Japan and New Zealand) have a minimum quota of 1000 Tier 5 YMS visas per year.

The statement of intent relating to Tier 5 YMS allows for a reciprocal amount of YMS visas per country dependent on how many UK citizens were granted working holiday visas (or equivalent) to each country.

No published figures are available in the public domain as yet.

Stephen Atkinson

March 14. 2009 10:09

I'm an Australian citizen currently travelling through the United States. I will arrive in the UK in late April and was hoping to apply for the YMS. Is this possible considering I'm not in my home country? Also, I'm finding it rather difficult to get a clear and concise guide to the application process - any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Jessica

March 14. 2009 18:09

Does anyone know what is the rule regarding having to enter the chosen country within three months of getting the Youth Mobility Visa or is it just that the latest date that it can commence from is three months from when you apply but you can still enter the county after this, its just that you would be still only be entitled to 2 years from the start of the visa and not when you entered

There just doesnt seem to be anything about this in the guidlines

Thanks

lisa keenan

March 16. 2009 23:29

I am a canadian citizen and applied for a UK WHV last year. I never did my Biometric appl. and so I reckon my Visa has never been activated.
While I be able to get a REFUND(full?)for my WHV and inturn apply for a YMV at a later date? I am presently in Australia and would like to apply from here or Ideally Japan.
Thank you for your time,
Matthieu

Matthieu Corrente

March 19. 2009 08:39

Hi

I just have a quick question about the youth mobility scheme. A friend and I are planning on coming to the UK next year (we're both Australian) and I was wondering if you have to have turned 18 when you lodge your application, or if it's ok if your 17, as long as you're 18 when you actually arrive?

Hope that made sense, and thanks for your time.

Talia

April 1. 2009 00:07

Hi Stephen,

I have a similar query to Emily (who posted an enquiry on the 29th Jan 09) in regard to loan payments or repayment obligations here in Australia.

I have already applied for a YMV for the UK and have been refused due to my bank statement not having the correct criteria or supporting bank letter (my mistake I know), everything else was fine.

I am going to reapply (more money gezzz), but I hear that if the traveller has loan obligations in their home country i.e. a mortgage, that this can cause a refusal?

I am planning on using a equity loan to fund my travel expenses (plus work in the uk as well) which I also intend for this equity loan to proove as maintenance funds for the $1600 pounds guidline. I'm worried that they could see this as a loan and not cleared cash funds which could result as being refused yet again.

Ofcourse, when I'm not living in my mortgaged home (and travelling) it would be rented and the rent would cover the equity loan.......

Should I have any problems with immigration considering my circumstances?

Thanks heeps.

Ed

April 2. 2009 03:08

Hi,

I am currently in the UK on a work permit (sponsored visa) which will be terminating soon. I will be returning to Australia to apply for a youth mobility visa as I qualify via the points based system.

Would the fact that I have already had a previous visa in the UK (but not on the YMS) hinder my application. Also, I already have a National Insurance Number which I have put on the application, what affect would this have on my process (if any)?

Also, any indication as to how long the visa application will take (ball park)?

Thanks very much.

Elle

April 9. 2009 10:49

Hey,

First off, just for people's general information, here is how my application for the Tier 5 YMS went.

This March I applied with all the correct documents, including a bank certification letter saying that the electronic bank statements I had printed out were correct. Immediately after my appointment at the VAC centre (for biometrics etc), I mailed off the envelope of my required documents. I live in Vancouver, Canada, and I mailed it to the Ottawa Centre.
Within a week I had received all my documents back, and my entry clearance granted. It was a very pleasant surprise, as I had been expecting a long wait... so if you have all the correct paperwork it should go through just fine!

Secondly, I have a question about the visa date, and I'd really appreciate it if somebody could help me. My Tier 5 Visa is dated June 18th. Does this mean I can not fly to the UK before that date? or does it just mean that my visa starts on that date and expires 2 years after it? The reason I'm wondering is that flights are cheaper before June 18th...I know, not a very strong reason, but money IS money, and I'm a saver.

Thanks a lot for any help,

- Carmel

Carmel

April 10. 2009 17:03

Hi,
I am a Canadian citizen, applied for a YMS visa last month; it has been approved and is now active. I am still in Canada but am planning a trip to the UK next week for some job interviews. I will be there only for a few days. There is a strong possibility I will get a job offer and can come back later to avail the entire 2 period of the visa. But is this a valid reason to provide to an immigration officer at the airport or would I be expected to stay in the UK for that term? Also, do I need to bring my proof of funding (Eg bank statement) with me when I travel?

Thanks very much
Maham

Maham

April 12. 2009 07:06

Hi there
I have just sent off my documents to Canberra applying for the Youth Mobility Visa in the UK. I now want to reschedule my flight for half a month later. I have already sent my Visa off twice and it came back rejected due to additional documents not being included. By the time I fly out it would have been over 3 months since I did my biometrix, does anyone know if this is going to cause a problem?

Jeremy Vincent

April 14. 2009 01:01

Hi Carmel,

Thank you for your comments.

Should you fly to the UK before the start date of your Tier 5 YMS visa, you will be stamped in as a Visitor only, valid for 6 months. Employment is strictly prohibited whilst in the UK on a Visitor visa.

You will then need to depart the UK (ie to somewhere close like France or Spain etc) just before your Tier 5 YMS starts and then re-enter the UK on or after the start date of the Tier 5 YMS to 'activate' it. Only once this is activated (by the UK immigration official stamping the visa vignette in your passport) will you be permitted to take up employment.

I trust this has assisted.

Stephen Atkinson

April 14. 2009 01:04

Hi Maham,

Thank you for your enquiry.

You are not required to remain inside the UK for the full 2 year duration of your Tier 5 YMS visa. If you choose to fly to the UK purely for interviews then return home, this is not a problem at all.

Remember, that the 2 year validity of the visa starts from the date printed on the visa vignette endorsed into your passport, not from your first entry into the UK.

Stephen Atkinson

April 14. 2009 12:56

Hello,

I am a Canadian citizen, and am interested in possibly traveling to the UK to work for a year or two. I understand that it is under the Tier 5 permit, I am just curious as to the chances of my application being granted when I do apply. I have several thousand dollars in the back, I am a certified veterinary technician/nurse, no criminal record, and am under 30. Sound good? Also, how long does it take to be approved?
Thank you kindly.

Julie

April 14. 2009 13:12

Hello,

I am a Canadian citizen and am interested in possibly working in the UK for a year or two. I am curious to know what my chances for a Tier 5 Visa are. I am under 30, a certified veterinary technician, and have a few thousand in the bank. Will it be hard for me to have application granted? I suppose I am asking, in your opinion, what do you think my chances are of attaining this Tier 5 visa?
Thank you kindly.

Julie

April 15. 2009 00:45

Hi Julie,

Thank you for your enquiry regarding the new Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa, which replaces the working holiday visa.

This category was implemented on 27 November 2008.

This visa will grant 18 - 30 year old nationals of participating countries 24 months entry into the UK with employment rights for the full duration of your stay. You may not conduct business or be a professional sportsperson.

You may not participate in the YMS if you have dependant children or have previously spent time in the United Kingdom as a working holidaymaker. This means that you are not able to extend the employment restriction if you currently hold a working holiday visa.

We would be delighted to assist with this visa even though it has to be applied for in your home country. Should you be returning to Australia or New Zealand to apply, our office in Melbourne can assist. If you are a Canadian or Japanese passport holder, our London office will be able to assist you. Please let me know should you require further contact details.

I trust this has assisted.

Stephen Atkinson

April 17. 2009 22:17

Hi

I am about to apply for Working holiday visa and I already have a job lined up. This job is based fully online. My question is: Can I travel through Europe as a Tourist and continue to do some part time work for my British employer? Is it cool for them do let me do this from a legal perspective??

Melly

April 22. 2009 07:51

I MYSELF SAIPRASAD FROM BANGALORE INDIA. IS IT AM ELIGIBLE FOR The Youth Mobility Scheme or YMS is a cultural exchange scheme designed to create reciprocal youth mobility opportunities for young people from participating countries and the United Kingdom.

IF AM ELIGIBLE? PLEASE PROVIDE THE INFO TO GOAHEAD FOR UK.
HOW TO APPLY FOR VISA ?

SAIPRASAD
91 9964052021

saiprasad

April 26. 2009 02:50

Hi,

I will be travelling in South America doing volunteer work and I wont be back in Australia before 15th March 2010.

Could you please confirm for me that if I apply for the Tier 5 visa on the 15th of March 2010 given that I turn the age of 31 on the 26 March 2010 I will pass the criteria of age?

Cheers,

Farah

April 29. 2009 02:33

Hi Saiprasad,

Unfortunately India are not a participating country in the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa. Should this change, we will update our website accordingly.

1st Contact Visas

April 29. 2009 02:35

Hi Farah,

As long as your application is received/lodged at the British High Commission by your 31st Birthday then you are still eligible to apply for the YMS Visa.

As the application process can take a week or so, with attending biometrics, getting your documents in order etc, then I would recommend applying for your visa as soon as you arrive back into Australia.

1st Contact Visas

May 4. 2009 02:45

i am going to apply for the yms visa very shortly, i have a question thats bugging me, im a kiwi and ive pretty much got the requirements that is needed however i live in australia atm. do i need to travel back to nz to do that appointment thats needed or is there someone in aus that i can go see?

thanks

eve

May 9. 2009 01:45

Hi,

Is there any news on the negotiations between the UK and US over the new youth mobility scheme visa that was supposed to replace BUNAC?

There seems to be a lot of people, several of my friends included that are waiting on this going through. Ireland and the US negotiated a scheme why can't the UK.

Thanks
Mark.

Mark Emblin

May 14. 2009 15:51

Hi

Like most people I am wondering when the US will join the YMS? I am hoping this will happen for the start of 2010.

Thanks.

Joe.

Joe Doyle

May 30. 2009 00:57

Hi
I am planning to apply for a tier 5 visa, is there a restriction on when I can apply for it? I heard somewhere that I could only apply for it 3 months before I intend to arrive in the UK, is that true? Or can I apply now even though I plan to arrive in the UK in mid October?
Thanks, Nancy

Nancy

May 31. 2009 09:55

as the others waiting on news on US UK, cant find any updates on this topic. I dont get how our greatest ally wont give us a chance to enjoy this experience as others, update please? any useful sights day to day updates?

neil

June 3. 2009 06:07

Hi

I am in the process of apply for a YMS visa and am wondering if at the end of the 2 years, will I be able to re- apply to stay in the Uk? Or is it just a one off visa?

Thanks
Kate

Kate

June 3. 2009 19:52

I would like some clafication on something. These are 2 different responses from officials on this forum;

1) "To answer your second query, you should only submit an application when you are within 3 months of your intended departure date." (2nd jan 09)

and then

2) "Should you apply now, the UK authorities will only forward date the visa by a maximum of 3 months. Effectively, if you obtain your visa now and only wish to enter the UK in October, you may lose a few months validity of the visa." (1st june 09)


im looking at traveling in South america in September for 3 months before going to the UK in december but i need uk visa before i leave australia. So can i apply for visa in say july, forward date it to october, and then enter UK for the first time in december?

Thx for any help regarding this issue.

Simon

June 4. 2009 09:46

Hi Simon,

Should you apply in July, the date of the visa can only be forward dated by a maximum of 3 months. Should you not enter the UK until December, you would effectively lose part of the 2 year validity of the visa - essentially you would not benefit from the full 2 years.

I hope this has clarified things for you.

1st Contact Visas

June 10. 2009 00:55

Hi there.

I am an Australian student going over to the UK to work in a pub for 6 months. My grandma was born in Scotland, so i am eligible to apply for the ancestral VISA. However, I have had to get the birth certificate sent over from scotland and it hasn't yet arrived, but i need to apply for my VISA asap as i leave in August.

If i just apply for the tier 5 youth mobility, will i be able to apply for the ancestral visa once the yms has expired, as i would like to go back to UK in about a year. Or will having the yms affect my future application for the ancestral visa?

Trudy

June 24. 2009 12:06

Hello

I have the required 1600 pounds for my YMV. My bank statement also discloses my credit card bill, and I was wondering whether or not this will affect my acceptance.

Thank you for your help,

Matthew

Matthew

July 18. 2009 16:26

please help me!

I am an Australian citizen and have been in Mexico for the last 3 months. I wanted to apply for the Youth mobility scheme while in Mexico originally so I went ahead and filled in the online application form and paid the fee. My biometrics were to be taken in Mexico city and all my documents sent from there to Australia.

Now i have realized i have to come back to Australia anyways for other reasons.

How do i go about applying while I'm in Sydney? should i just take my forms i printed out in Mexico to a VAC and explain my situation, or should i just fill out an other online application and book another biometrics appointment in Sydney then ask for a refund for my original application that i did in Mexico?

I have tried to change the appointment location but the online form doesn't give me an option to change the country. So I have cancelled the appointment and it says i must book another date for my visa to be processed.

Also, the 1600 pound thing.. My father has handed over my money from my trust fund so i can go to the UK. It will be in my bank account just before i go into my biometrics appointment. Will it be necessary for my father to write a letter saying that the funds in my bank account are from my trust account along with a bank statement from my bank? Will this help?

Cheers

Shane

August 15. 2009 01:13

hello,

Im an Aussie who is wanting to apply for the ymv....I am being gifted the money from a friend (which I will pay back upon return) will this be a problem as I have not saved the money myself??? Or if my friend writes a letter outlining the gifts of funds is this ok???

Also my sister will have $5000 woth of saving upon applying for the visa but she is also taking out a loan for further travel is this ok?

Carly

August 17. 2009 13:17

Hi Carly,

Thank you for your enquiry. I am confident we can get around your situation with the documentation we provide. We will issue you with a letter template for your bank to write to confirm your funds so that we can address your large deposit to ensure the application is successful.

1st Contact Visas

August 28. 2009 14:33

I am a New Zealand citizen, currently residing in the UK. I have been living/working in the UK for the past 2 years on the initial 2-year period of my old Highly Skilled Migrant Visa (which recently expired)...am currently travelling around europe.

my question is.....when i come back to the UK (which i assume i will need to enter in on a tourist visa), can i then apply for a YMS visa from the UK?

Many thanks

Tom

tom

August 31. 2009 07:21

Hi Tom,

Thank you for your enquiry.

Unfortunately you can not apply for the Tier 5 (YMS) visa from within the UK - you must return to your country of residence to submit the application.

1st Contact Visas

September 8. 2009 18:49

Hiya,

I'm an Australian currently residing in Los Angeles and I was just wondering if you think I might possibly run into any problems with the application process or with getting approved for the YMS visa if I apply for it from here because I've no plans to head back to Sydney before applying.
Thanks!

Jessica

September 10. 2009 23:42

Hi there

I am a NZ citizen currently in India (on holiday) for a couple of months. I would like to head to the UK in November and would like to apply for the YMS visa. Can I apply for this from India or do I have to apply from NZ? Also, what is the likely processing time if I am able to apply from India?

Your feedback will be much appreciated!

Thanks
Shilpa

shilpa

October 4. 2009 23:40

Hi there,

I am a 30 year old Australian citizen who turns 31 on the 20/02/10. I understand that I am eligible for the tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme if I apply before I turn 31. If I successfully obtained the Visa would it still be valid for 2 years or does it run out when I turn 31?
Best Regards
M

Mel

October 5. 2009 05:19

Hi.

My name is Lisa and I am from Canada. I am 18 years old and I wish to go to the uk to work. I am confused on on thing.. Do I need to get a sponsor from the uk for work? Or is it just a plus to have a sponsor. I've been looking at some sites and some say the for my age I would get 10 points, for funds, 10 and for being Canadian, 30. And you need 50 points. I don't understand how an 18 year old would be able to get a sponsor anyways, I would just like a full time job in a store or something and live like I do now, in Canada. But different of course in the UK. I've visited the UK once and going back for the holidays, so I think it would be a great opportunity to see if I would actually consider moving there. I am just confused on the sponsor stuff, any advice/help?

Thank you,

Lisa

October 15. 2009 21:40

Is there any way of finding out if the annual quota for Canadian visa applicants has been met?

Also, Ill be in France when I apply. Will this matter or do I have to be in one of the participating countries to make my application?

Evan

October 16. 2009 01:49

Hi Evan,

Thank you for your enquiry.

At this stage only Japan has reached it's quota for 2009.

You are only able to apply from France if you have a visa for France that was granted to you for longer than 6 months, or if you hold residency or citizenship of France.

I trust this has assisted.

1st Contact Visas

October 17. 2009 21:32

Hi again, tahnk you for the informative reply. I do however have one more question. I am in Australia on a one year visa. However it expires shortly and so I am leaving and then coming back on a tourist visa. If you can apply from a country that has granted you a 6 month visa or longer, can I still apply from Australia even though my tourist visa wont be for 6 months but I was given a year visa just the prior month or so?

Evan

October 29. 2009 22:06

Hi,

I am an Australian citizen, 30. I have a query regarding existing loans in Australia. If I am ahead (pre-paid) by 3 to six months in my mortgage repayments and I also have the 1600 pounds, will there be any problems obtaining my UK visa?

What I would like to know is... does having a mortgage affect my visa application??

**Any assistance or feedback would be most appreciated**.

Many thanks,

Jacqui

Jacqui

January 7. 2010 02:02

Hi,

I am a NZer currently in the UK on the YMS, I am one year through. My partner, applied for his visa after mine had been accepted and discovered he was eligible for an ancestry visa. We've been together 4 years and he had just proposed. I am wondering what the chances of shifting from a YMS to his visa as partner/fiance/wife are either prior to my visa expiring or post-expiry.

Do you have any advise on how best to tackle this?

Many thanks and kind regards,

Sarah

sarah