The Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme makes it possible for young people (aged 18-30) from certain countries to spend a limited time living and working in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales.
Who can apply for the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme?
Young people from the following countries are eligible for the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme:
- Australia
- Canada
- Hong Kong
- New Zealand
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Taiwan
- Monaco
- British citizens of the overseas territories or British nationals living overseas
For au pairs from the Republic of Korea, your own government will act as your sponsor during your stay in the UK. Bear in mind that the number of places and sponsorship certificates for nationals of these countries is limited. You need to apply for your visa within 3 months upon receipt of your certificate of sponsorship. (Please note: the latter is not a printed document, but a reference number).
How does it work?
Under the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme, points are given for nationality and age. It is crucial for applicants to have enough funds (maintenance) to support themselves for the length of the stay in Britain, and the applicant should provide evidence of having access to at least 1,890 GBP in savings.
Step 1: Check passport validity
Au pairs should make sure that they have a valid passport before planning a trip.
Step 2: Sign the au pair contract
The host family should send the signed au pair contract to the au pair.
Step 3: Apply for visa
The au pair should make the arrangements for the visa, which can be applied for online.
When applying, the following documents will have to be submitted to the British embassy or consulate in the au pair's home country:
- a valid passport containing a blank page for the visa
- a passport photo meeting the necessary requirements
- a bank statement proving access to at least GBP 1,890
- results of a tuberculosis (TB) test if required
- a certified translation of all documents that are not written in either English or Welsh
It is advisable to check with the British embassy or consulate whether any further documents are required.
The visa is usually issued to cover a period of 2 years. Therefore, the respective au pairs do not need to contact the UK Visas and Immigration Office after 6 months. The au pair may leave and re-enter the country within this period of time. If an au pair who requires a visa needs to register with the police, this will be noted in his/her passport. In this case, the au pair should register within 7 days of arrival.
The work permit which the au pair receives under the Youth Mobility Scheme is automatically valid for 24 months.