United Kingdom: Hong Kong SAR Chinese and Taiwan Youth Mobility Scheme Second Ballot to Open July 14, 2026

The situation

The UK Home Office has announced that the second (and final) Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) 2026 ballot for Hong Kong SAR Chinese and Taiwanese will open on July 14, 2026, and close on July 16, 2026. Under the scheme, successful applicants can live, work and study in the United Kingdom for a period of 24 months. 

A closer look 

• Ballot period. The second ballot will open at 00:01 (UTC+8) on July 14, 2026 and close at 00:01 (UTC+8) on July 16, 2026. The first ballot took place in February. 
• Program details. The ballot is open to Hong Kong SAR Chinese and Taiwanese between 18-30 years old, at the date of travel under the Scheme, who have savings of at least GBP 2,530 and who have no children below 18 with whom they live or support. Individuals selected by ballot then have 90 days to apply for a visa under the scheme, pay the visa application fee (including immigration health surcharge) and provide biometrics. 
• Quota. There is no quota for the ballot but each group is allocated 1,000 places per year under the Youth Mobility Scheme. 
• Costs. Entering the ballot is free but it costs GBP 340 to apply under the Scheme. Those who are not chosen in the upcoming ballot can submit another application in future ballots. 
• Application. When the application window opens, interested applicants will be able to submit a ballot for the program via an email process. 

Impact 

The Scheme provides a specific entry pathway for those from a participating country or territory with a relatively short processing time as compared to other schemes. 

Background 

The United Kingdom has established multiple YMS pathways, which allow a person from a participating country or territory to experience life in the United Kingdom and work without sponsorship. It has established YMS pathways for Australians, Canadians, Icelanders, Japanese, New Zealanders, South Koreans and Uruguayans, among others. Quotas and age eligibility requirements vary according to each program. 

Looking ahead 

There is continuing discussion regarding the United Kingdom establishing YMS pathways with various European countries, including France, Germany, Spain and Switzerland, as well as the European Union more generally. We are continuing to monitor developments in this space.   

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at  Fragomen.