The UK Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) is back, and it’s offering a golden opportunity for young people from Hong Kong and Taiwan to live, work, and explore life in the United Kingdom. The second 2025 YMS ballot will open on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, at 00:01 AM (local time) and close at 00:01 AM on Thursday, 17 July 2025. If you’re ready to seize this chance to live and work in the UK for up to two years, this guide will walk you through all the essential details you need to know to successfully apply.
What is the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS)?
The Youth Mobility Scheme is a UK government initiative that allows young people aged 18 to 30 from selected countries to live, work, and travel in the United Kingdom for up to two years. This is a fully open work visa that doesn’t require job sponsorship, offering you the freedom to pursue various career opportunities, travel across the UK, and immerse yourself in its unique culture.
The YMS visa has proven to be a game-changer for many young people who wish to explore life in the UK. It’s not just about work – it’s about gaining invaluable cultural experiences and developing personal growth. If you’ve been dreaming of living in the UK, the YMS is your ticket to an exciting adventure.
However, there’s a catch: some countries, including Hong Kong and Taiwan, require applicants to enter a ballot for a chance to be selected for the YMS visa. This means that not everyone will be chosen, and there are only a limited number of spots available.
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Who Needs to Enter the July 2025 Ballot?
If you’re from Hong Kong (with an SAR passport) or Taiwan, you must enter the ballot for a chance to be selected for the YMS visa. In July 2025, the second ballot round will determine who gets to apply for a visa, so it’s crucial to enter if you want to pursue this opportunity.
Here’s the good news: if you’re a national of Japan or South Korea, you no longer need to enter a ballot. You can apply for the YMS visa directly at any time without participating in the ballot process. Additionally, British Overseas Citizens, British Overseas Territories Citizens, and British Nationals (Overseas) are also exempt from the ballot.
Key Dates for the July 2025 Ballot:
The second ballot for the 2025 Youth Mobility Scheme will be held from 00:01 AM on 15 July 2025 until 00:01 AM on 17 July 2025 (local time). This 48-hour window is the only time frame when you can submit your email entry, so be sure to mark the dates on your calendar.
Here’s the timeline of events:
- Ballot Opens: 15 July 2025, 00:01 AM (local time).
- Ballot Closes: 17 July 2025, 00:01 AM (local time).
- Notification of Results: By 1 August 2025.
- Visa Application Deadline: Within 90 days of being selected.
- Visa Duration: Up to 2 years.
- Age Eligibility: 18 to 30 years old.
If you’re selected, you’ll have 90 days from the notification date to complete your visa application and submit biometric data. The final visa decision usually takes around three weeks.
How to Enter the Ballot Step-by-Step Guide?
Entering the YMS ballot is a simple but strict process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure your application is valid:
1. Prepare Your Email in English
Your ballot entry must be written in English. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure that all information is submitted correctly. Failure to follow the format could result in your disqualification.
2. Subject Line of the Email
The subject line of your email must include the following details, formatted exactly as shown:
- Your last name and first name.
- Your date of birth in DD/MM/YYYY format.
- Your passport number.
3. Content of the Email
In the body of the email, include the following information:
- Your full name.
- Your date of birth.
- Your passport number.
- Your mobile phone number.
Make sure that all details are accurate and complete. Incomplete or incorrectly formatted emails will not be considered, so double-check everything before sending.
4. Send Your Email to the Correct Address
- If you’re from Hong Kong, send your entry to HongKongYMS@homeoffice.gov.uk.
- If you’re from Taiwan, send your entry to TaiwanYMS@homeoffice.gov.uk.
Ensure your email is submitted within the 48-hour ballot window from 15 July 2025, 00:01 AM to 17 July 2025, 00:01 AM (local time). Remember, only one entry per person is allowed – submitting multiple entries will lead to disqualification.
5. Get an Automated Confirmation
Once your email is received, you’ll get an automated reply confirming your entry into the ballot. Keep this confirmation for your records.
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What Happens if you’re Selected in the Ballot?
If you’re successful in the ballot, you’ll receive an email notification by 1 August 2025. Here’s what you need to do next:
- Submit Your Visa Application: You’ll need to complete your visa application and pay the required fee.
- Biometrics Appointment: You’ll need to visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph.
- Receive your eVisa: Once your application is processed, you’ll receive an eVisa rather than a traditional visa sticker in your passport. This means you can access your visa digitally before traveling to the UK.
- Travel to the UK: With your eVisa approved, you can travel to the UK and begin your two-year adventure.
You should receive a decision on your visa within three weeks of attending your biometrics appointment, but be aware that processing times can vary.
What Happens if you’re Not Selected?
If you’re not selected in the ballot, you’ll receive a rejection email within two weeks of the ballot closing. Unfortunately, there is no appeal process, but don’t worry – you can always try again in future ballot rounds as long as you remain eligible.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Success:
While entering the ballot is a random process, following these tips will ensure your application is valid and improve your chances:
- Submit Your Entry Correctly: Double-check the format and accuracy of your subject line and email content.
- Follow the Timing: Make sure your email is sent within the official ballot window to ensure it’s considered.
- Prepare Documents in Advance: While you don’t need to submit documents during the ballot, having them ready for your visa application will save time if you’re selected.
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Conclusion:
The UK Youth Mobility Scheme provides an incredible opportunity to live, work, and experience the United Kingdom for up to two years. If you’re from Hong Kong or Taiwan, the upcoming July 2025 ballot could be your chance to secure this life-changing visa.
Mark the dates on your calendar, prepare your email correctly, and get ready to enter the ballot when it opens on 15 July 2025. This is your opportunity to explore the UK, gain valuable work experience, and enrich your cultural understanding. To apply and know more visit the official link here.