YMS vs Graduate: which UK visa is right for you?
Two ways for young people to work in the UK without a sponsor: the Youth Mobility Scheme for under-35s from eligible countries, and the Graduate visa for those who studied in the UK.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Youth Mobility Scheme visa (YMS) | Graduate visa (Graduate) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | For young people from participating countries and territories who want to live and work in the UK. | For international students who have completed an eligible UK degree and want to stay to work or look for work. |
| Government cost | ~£319 application; IHS ~£1,035/year | ~£880 application; IHS ~£1,035/year |
| Processing time | ~3 weeks | ~8 weeks |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years (3 years for some nationalities) | 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) |
| Where to apply | Outside the UK | Inside the UK only |
| Work rights | Work freely, including self-employment, no sponsor needed | Work at any skill level, including self-employment, no sponsor |
| Pathway to PR | Does not lead to settlement; switch to another route to remain longer. | Does not directly lead to settlement; switch to Skilled Worker to build an ILR pathway. |
Which is right for you?
Youth Mobility Scheme visa (YMS)
For young people from participating countries and territories who want to live and work in the UK.
Full YMS guide →Graduate visa (Graduate)
For international students who have completed an eligible UK degree and want to stay to work or look for work.
Full Graduate guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, YMS or Graduate?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Youth Mobility Scheme visa (YMS) is the lowest at ~£319 application; IHS ~£1,035/year. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, YMS or Graduate?
Indicatively Youth Mobility Scheme visa (YMS) is the quickest at ~3 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between YMS and Graduate?
Youth Mobility Scheme visa (YMS) is for for young people from participating countries and territories who want to live and work in the UK. Graduate visa (Graduate) is for for international students who have completed an eligible UK degree and want to stay to work or look for work.