EU-UK youth mobility scheme agreement explained

Following a major summit on Monday 19th May, the UK and the EU have shared plans to work towards a reciprocal youth mobility scheme.

This agreement comes amid a wider reset of the UK and EU relationship, with discussions covering fishing rights, smoother travel, reduced barriers for trade and more.

But what could this youth mobility scheme look like for future UK newcomers? And who could be eligible for it? Here’s what we know so far.

What could the EU-UK youth mobility scheme look like?

The scheme has so far been described as a “balanced youth experience” that will allow young people from the UK and EU countries to freely work, study, travel, au-pair and volunteer in each others’ countries.

While no concrete details have been agreed yet, it’s likely that the scheme will be time-limited and numbers will be capped.

The UK already has reciprocal youth mobility schemes in place with 12 other countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Iceland, Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan. If the details of proposed EU-UK scheme ends up mirroring existing deals, the rules could be similar to the following:

• For 18 to 30 year olds, potentially extending to those under 35.
• Limited to two years living and working in the UK.
• Must have at least £2,530 in savings.
• Must pay an annual National Health Service (NHS) surcharge.
• Subject to annual quotas.

Right now the scheme is only agreed in principle. So everything – from the time limits to the conditions – are still up for debate. And it will likely be some time before the negotiations are settled.

Why a youth mobility scheme matters

Before the UK officially exited the European Union in 2020 (Brexit), people in the UK had the right to live, work and study in the EU without a visa, and vice versa. Leaving put an end to this freedom of movement, contributing to a shock to the UK labour supply and a drop in the number of EU students coming to the UK.

An EU-UK youth mobility scheme has the potential to ease some of these key UK labour shortages, while also offering flexibility and cultural exchange opportunities to young people throughout the UK and EU.

And there’s a lot of positive feeling for the idea! A YouGov poll found that 66% of the British public would support a deal that allows 18 to 30 year olds to live, work and study for a two year period in countries across Europe.

Backing youth mobility at Marshmallow

We believe migration is a force for good – and we’ve never been afraid to shout about it. Loudly.

Migration boosts our economy. Fills essential skill gaps. Enriches our culture. So in our book, any deal that makes it easier for young people to experience life in the UK (and vice versa) is only good news.

We don’t know yet when the scheme will be finalised, or when it will be put into action. But we do know that we’ll be there for those who move to the UK via the scheme when it’s in place. Helping them keep moving with affordable car insurance — and cheering them on every mile of the way.