UK and South Korea expand Youth Mobility schemes for young people
The expansion takes effect later this month, with increased annual quota, increased age range and the removal of the ballot process.
한국-영국 청년교류제도 연령 상향 및 쿼터 확대
More young Brits and South Korean nationals will be eligible to experience life-changing opportunities in each other’s countries thanks to the expansion of shared visa schemes between the UK and South Korea.
From 31 January 2024, the number of nationals from South Korea who can apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) visa each year is increasing from 1,000 to 5,000 and the age limit will also go up from 18 to 30, to 18 to 35.
South Korean nationals interested in applying for the YMS visa will no longer need to register their interest in a ballot and, instead, can apply at any time from 31 January if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Throughout the years, we have seen thousands of young people take advantage of the Youth Mobility schemes to travel, work, and explore the UK, gaining a better understanding of a new culture and society along the way.
Speaking of the upcoming announcements the British Ambassador to South Korea Colin Crooks said: “The enthusiasm of British and Korean people for each other’s culture, language, music, and sports is at an all-time high. The expansion of the YMS agreement between the UK and South Korea will allow more young people than ever from our two countries to explore each other’s cultures first-hand and to make life-long memories and friends in the process.”
UKVI Head of Region for Asia Pacific; Michael Lutz; said: “The Youth Mobility Scheme is an excellent opportunity for South Korean nationals to immerse themselves within the UK and make unforgettable memories. This new expansion means that more South Korean nationals between the ages of 18 to 35 will have the opportunity to live and work in the UK.