If you're a young adult from Hong Kong or Taiwan looking for an opportunity to live and work in the United Kingdom, the Youth Mobility Scheme visa 2025 offers a unique chance to do just that. This highly competitive program allows you to stay in the UK for up to two years, experiencing British culture while working or studying.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Youth Mobility Scheme UK 2025 ballot system, including eligibility criteria, application steps, deadlines, and how to boost your chances of selection.
What Is the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa?
The Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) is a UK visa route designed for young people aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for some countries) from select countries. It allows eligible individuals to live, work, and travel freely within the UK for up to two years without needing employer sponsorship.
For 2025, applicants from Hong Kong and Taiwan must enter a ballot system due to limited visa quotas.
Second Ballot Dates for 2025
Ballot Opens: Tuesday, 15 July 2025 at 00:01am
Ballot Closes: Thursday, 17 July 2025 at 00:01am (local time)
Applicants from Hong Kong and Taiwan must send an email during this 48-hour window to enter the ballot for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa 2025.
Who Needs to Enter the Ballot?
If you're a national of:
- Hong Kong (SAR passport holders)
- Taiwan
You must enter the ballot before applying for the visa.
You do not need to enter the ballot if you are from:
- Japan
- South Korea
- British Overseas Territories
- British Nationals (Overseas)
These applicants can apply directly for the YMS visa at any time.
How to Enter the Youth Mobility Scheme Ballot
Step 1: Prepare your information
Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements before applying. You’ll need:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Passport number
- Mobile phone number
Step 2: Send an email
Your email should be in English and formatted properly.
Subject line format:
Lastname Firstname – DD/MM/YYYY – passport number
Example: Wong Janet – 31/03/2000 – 123456789
Email body must include:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Passport number
- Mobile number
Step 3: Submit to the right address
- For Hong Kong: Email HongKongYMS@homeoffice.gov.uk
- For Taiwan: Email TaiwanYMS@homeoffice.gov.uk
Emails sent outside of the ballot window or with incorrect formatting will not be accepted.
Total Number of Visa Places for 2025
- 1,000 places for Hong Kong SAR passport holders
- 1,000 places for Taiwanese applicants
Most spots are filled in the February ballot, and the remaining are offered in the July ballot.
What Happens If You're Successful?
If selected, you'll receive a confirmation email by 1 August 2025. From there:
- You have 90 days to apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa online.
- You must pay the visa fee, submit biometrics, and provide necessary documents.
- Decisions are usually made within 3 weeks after your visa appointment.
Note: From 2024 onward, successful applicants will not receive a visa vignette. Instead, you’ll need to create a UKVI account to access your eVisa before traveling.
What If You’re Unsuccessful?
- You will be notified via email within two weeks of the ballot closing.
- If you don't get a response, check your spam/junk folder.
- The ballot results are final—you cannot appeal.
You may try again in the next ballot round, provided you still meet the eligibility requirements.
Eligibility for the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
To be eligible for the YMS 2025 visa, you must:
- Be aged 18–30
- Be a citizen of an eligible country
- Have at least £2,530 in savings
- Not have children who live with you
- Not have previously entered the UK under this scheme
Learn more about YMS visa requirements here:
UK Government Official YMS Page
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Apply right at opening time to avoid server delays.
- Double-check that your email format is perfect.
- Use a reliable email provider and save the confirmation email.
- Prepare your passport, proof of funds, and supporting documents in advance.
Related Opportunities
If you're from India, check the separate India Young Professionals Scheme which has its own application and ballot process.
Looking for other UK visas? Explore:
- Graduate Trainee Visa (Global Mobility)
- High Potential Individual Visa
- Skilled Worker Visa UK
- Temporary Work Visas
Final Words
The UK Youth Mobility Scheme Visa 2025 provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live, work, and travel in the United Kingdom. Whether you're a recent graduate, a young professional, or someone looking for cultural exchange, this visa could open new doors for you.
With limited places available, it's crucial to follow the instructions carefully and submit your ballot entry email on time. Good luck!
Official Call: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/youth-mobility-scheme-visa-ballot-system