About moving to United Kingdom
Australian passport holders can apply for most UK visas with no sponsor required for youth mobility. Post-Brexit, EU freedom of movement no longer applies.
Working holiday visa for United Kingdom
Youth Mobility Scheme
Live and work in the UK for up to 2 years (extendable to 3 for some). No job offer needed.
- Age requirement: 18–30 years
- Key notes: Must apply from outside UK. Places are limited — apply early in the year.
- Official source: www.gov.uk
Skilled worker and residency visas for United Kingdom
Skilled Worker Visa
Work in the UK with an approved employer sponsor in an eligible skilled occupation.
- Minimum education: Bachelor's degree
- Age limit: 18–65 years
- Key notes: Requires a job offer from a licensed sponsor. Salary threshold applies (£38,700+ for most roles).
- Official source: www.gov.uk
Global Talent Visa
For leaders and emerging leaders in digital technology, arts, science, engineering, or academia.
- Minimum education: Bachelor's degree
- Age limit: 18–65 years
- Key notes: No job offer needed but must be endorsed by a recognised body (Tech Nation, Royal Society, etc.).
- Official source: www.gov.uk
Graduate Visa
Stay in UK 2 years after completing a UK degree to work or look for work.
- Minimum education: Bachelor's degree
- Age limit: 18–65 years
- Key notes: Only available if you studied at a UK university. Not open to those studying from overseas.
- Official source: www.gov.uk
Other visa options for United Kingdom
UK Ancestry Visa
Work in the UK for 5 years if you have a grandparent born in the UK or Commonwealth.
Must prove the ancestral connection and have enough money to support yourself.
Visa comparison table
| Visa | Type | Age limit | Min education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth Mobility Scheme | working holiday | 18–30 | None required |
| Skilled Worker Visa | skilled | 18+ | Bachelor's |
| Global Talent Visa | skilled | 18+ | Bachelor's |
| Graduate Visa | skilled | 18+ | Bachelor's |
| UK Ancestry Visa | ancestry | 17+ | None required |