Can I extend my YMS visa?

Participants from Australia, Canada, and New Zealand are granted a unique provision allowing them to extend their initial two-year visa by an additional year, raising the maximum stay to 36 months. Other participants cannot extend.

What is the true cost of applying for the YMS?

While the base application fee is £340, you must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year upfront (totaling £1,552 for a 2-year visa) and prove you have at least £2,530 in personal savings. Total estimated capital barrier is ~£4,422.

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United Kingdom

Youth Mobility Scheme

YMS

GBP 340

Application Fee

15–21 days

Processing Time

24 Months

Maximum Stay

Up to 1x

Extensions

Requirements Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply on the official government website

Last verified: 9 April 2026. Not legal advice.

Am I eligible?

Eligible nationalities (12)

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⚡ = ballot/pool based