The Working Holidaymakers Visa is an arrangement in the U.K. allowing an individual to remain within the country for up to two years. Individuals on this Visa may work, but employment should not be the primary reason for the stay in the country. This scheme is regulated by Immigration and is available to those aged 17 to 30. There are multiple qualifications to meet when applying for a working holidaymaker visa. First, the individual must be a citizen of a British Overseas territory or of one of the countries listed in the U.K. Immigration Rules. The list of these counties can be obtained by contacting the Border and Immigration Agency. The individual must not make employment the primary reason for the stay, and may not work for more than 12 months of the two-year allotted time. Individuals cannot set up or run a business, nor can they receive public funding. No dependent children of the age 5 or older are allowed on a working holidaymaker visa. Individuals must not have stayed in the U.K. on a previous working holidaymaker visa, and must leave the country at the end of the two-year period.

If an individual applies for this visa and it is granted, the two-year period starts from the date the visa is granted. If during that time, the individual stays out of the country, that time is included within the allotted two years. A valid visa must be obtained before being granted a working holidaymaker visa. All applicants must prove that they have been granted entry clearance into the U.K. before any application will be accepted.

If you require further assistance with your Holidaymakers Visa please do not hesitate to contact us here at Midlands Immigration Services Ltd.