In my last post on Applying for a UK Youth Mobility Visa I went through what it was and how to apply for one.
After you’ve handed over the money, picked your appointment date for your biometric data to be taken and printed off everything in triplicate (hey I was taught to always be prepared, thank you Scouts) your next step is to wait till your appointment date. The appointment is just a really fancy way of saying hey we want your finger prints just in case we want to implicate you in a crime while your here. I kid honest… oh god I’m so getting strip searched on arrival.
The appointment is a breeze. They make you drive to “insert nearest capital city here” for what is a 2 minute process. That is unless you’ve worn your finger prints away like I had on my left hand pinkie finger. My appointment was in Melbourne which for the rest of you is about a 1.5 hour drive away.
Entering the consulate office you take a seat opposite the glass wall and wait to be called. Don’t try and talk to the staff behind the glass wall because your getting no love there trust me, the guy that walked in after me sure found that out.
Using the press here to talk method of PA systems your name is called and you front up to the counter and pass over the following:
- Printed visa application form (Attach your passport photo to it)
- Booking confirmation form
- Valid passport
You then get told to stick your fingers on the miniature scanner so they can scan your digits. Right hand, left hand and then the thumbs. Apparently I work too hard because as I said one of my fingers wouldn’t scan. We tried pressing on it, breathing on it and even doing the look away to be all sneaky and fool the scanner trick. Eventually they got the scans and that was it. I got back my form with a stamp on it and a half A4 size piece of paper detailing my next step.
That next step will require the following important pieces of documentation:
- Signed application form with accompanying biometric stamp of approval
- Passport sized photo (hopefully still attached to your application form)
- Current passport
- Completed self-assessment form and accompanying documents (Appendix 7 Self-Assessment Form)
The first three items are easy you have those. The fourth item as mentioned in the first post is to print off the Appendix 7 document and fill it in. They ask the obvious stuff like your name (don’t get that wrong please), age etc. The important bit is Part 4.
This section requires you to prove you have 1600 quid in the bank before you get there. The easiest way to do this is send in your latest bank statement. Just make sure its current, they require one dated within 30 days of your application. Most banks are willing to issue you a current statement but be careful there is probably going to be a fee attached to it. I suggest applying for it as soon as you apply if not sooner, banks can be a bit slow and if your pressed for time applying well.. you don’t want to know the answer to that.
Set with all my documents I purchased two express post parcels. One to send the documents down in and one for them to post it back to me, the cheap buggers won’t even foot the bill for postage back. Express post also allows you to track the parcel just in case someone looses it because after all it will contain your passport.
Then you play the waiting game. Estimated processing times can be found at this web page . Only get nervous if after 10 days you still haven’t heard anything because according to that page 98% of claims are completed in that time frame.
You will receive an email when they receive your documents and then one at the end detailing if you have been approved or not. I can tell you when I received these words in an email today I was ecstatic.
Your application has been approved and your documents will be dispatched within 2 working days.
Overall when you have the right information this process really is a breeze. The daunting task is finding out what you need. I hope that both my articles on the topic can help to serve other future applicants in Applying for the Youth Mobility Visa.
Dear All,
It is 2 July 2011. I have a flight leaving the country on 20 July 2011. I have not yet applied for my YMV.
First off, I mistakenly believed that you could only apply for YMV within three months of arriving in the UK (partly because of these words on the UK Border agency website “You can apply for your visa within three months of your intended date of travel”). That was stupid and I know now that travel means date you start travel. I won’t get to the UK until 6 October, but am leaving the country on 20 July (ie, I need my passport on 20 Juy). I am now trying to decide whether I should take the risk and send my application off on Monday, 2 July 2011 in the hope it will return to Perth by Tuesday, 19 July 2011 OR come back to Australia after my travels (which already have a bunch of things booked) and apply for my Visa and THEN return to the UK. On the one hand there is a guarantee that I will get my Visa and have to pay $1500 on flights to and from the UK if I come home in October to apply OR risk it and have an unknown amount of costs to get to Japan or the USA and miss out on an unknown amount of my trip I have worked for 18 months to finally be able to do. I also have a conviction for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and want to get an idea if that slows the process down at all.
I am confident I can get my bank statement, application, copy of conviction, biometrics and all the other things you need to send to finalise the application by Monday afternoon.
Let’s do a survey!
*BOTTOM LINE*: I would love love love it if everyone could simply post the date they sent off their application, where they sent it from, when they returned it and if they have any convictions (if so, what type of conviction).
Many thanks in advance
TD
Hi,
Thanks for the useful comments. Im a Kiwi living in Brisbane, is it possible to apply for a youth mobility visa from Australia.
Or do i have to go back to N.Z to do it?
Appreciate your feedback.
Hi Craig,
see the policy guidance notes in the top right hand corner of this page:
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier5/youthmobilityscheme/
Look at note 3 of the introduction. Basically, if you have permission to be in Australia for more than six months you can apply from Australia.
Cheers
TD
Hey mate, I got an email back saying:
“Your visa will be despatched shortly. Passports can normally be collected from the Visa Application Centre after 3 days. Applicants in Australia and New Zealand should allow 3 days before tracking their documents via the local post. UKBA-Manila Visa Hub”
Does this mean it has been approved? Would I also collect my things from the same place that I had to go for the finger prints and everything? I hope this means it has been approved. 🙂
Hey William,
Congratulations.
How did you go? How long after receiving that email did you get your passport back?
Cheers
TD
Hey Matey,
Cheers for such a fantastic blog. It really does help! I am currently waiting on my bank statement in the mail to then send off with all my other papers! After reading this blog I feel confident that I’ve got everything! I also have a serious DUI from only a few months ago.. and have included relevant paperwork for this.. I hope it doesn’t affect my chances at being accepted! I plan to go over in September – so heres fingers crossed! I will update you and let you know how it goes..
Will deff have to catch up for a bevy when I get over,
Cheers, Jess
hey Jess
im leaving in September as well! and am waiting for appointment 🙂 fun times
good luck!
Kathryn
Hey
what is with this country, ok cool got all my stuff together great. now lets book a biometric appt. ok i think i can handle that.
but they have a processing centre in every capital city except Adelaide, what is with that? do they think south Australians dont go anywhere?
no have to fork out for a plane ticket to Melbourne for a 2 second appointment, its crazy!!
did anyone else find this?
but see how i go!!!!!!
Every Capital City? Hobart is one a capital city too. Jesus.
After the biometrics appointment what is the address you send all your gear too?
And when they asked how I was going to submit my application I put In person with pre paid return envelope. However it really will be by post. Are they anal about this kind of thing?
VISA APPROVED! received the email today “Your visa will be despatched shortly. Passports can normally be collected from the Visa Application Centre after 3 days..”
I sent it off last Thursday and 6 days later received the acceptance email. Now to wait for it to come back!
xo
Congrats Jess. Look me up when you arrive and I’ll shout the first pint 🙂
Heya;
brilliant website, and i’m sending you a bucket of kudo’s to you sir. (may even have a pack of timtams in the luggage if you want)
biometrics appointment booked in brisbane for the 4th of august.
Everything is set to take;
-Photo’s
-Passport
-Online Application printed
-Appointment Confirmation printed
-Tips of my own fingers in a zip sealed bag (hur hurrr)
***My next step will be to post my documents off to the ACT office.
I have at the ready:
– Passport
– more pictures
– Appendix 7
– Bank letter stating i have in excess of 1600 quid
– printed online application
– return envelope
(Am i forgetting anything?)
Thank you in advance.
Sounds like you are all set Ryan. Only now everything gets sent off to Manila but you get all of that info at your biometric appointment.
VISA has been granted!
Flights have been booked!
now just to put my rolled socks into my shoes and i’m outta here!
Hi I’ve just stumbled across this very informative blog!
I’m an Australian Citizen and I’m applying for the UK Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme for 2 years starting in January 2012
I’m needing help on the application for the following questions…
=’Is this your first passport?’=
I’ve had two passports (Australian) which have expired before I turned 18 which I’ve had to hand in to recieve my current passport (which I’ve had since I was 21)
Do I select Yes or No?
=’Have you been granted a UK visa in the last 10 years?’=
I’ve been to the UK on a short holiday twice, (1 week in 2005 & 3 weeks in 2010)
Do I select Yes or No?
Also I’m thinking of flying to the UK on 01/Jan/2012 – Jan however my passport expires on 06/Jan/2014, since I’m choosing a 2 year YMS will this be accepted?
Thanks in advance.
Heather
You will need to declare the past two passports, and supply them along with your documents when sending everything off to the Sydney/Manilla office, these are to be used for your travel history.
not sure about the holiday Visa thingo; may not count beings a visa waiver visit.
If your current passport will see-out the entire stay of the Visa, you will be fine, if the Visa will be longer than the current passport’s validity, then you will need to renew your passport, and the old one will be lodged with the pervious afforementioned 2 passports when sent to the Sydney/Manilla office.
hope this helps
Hi Heather. On the visa part select no and if you still have the old passports you have to send them in from memory. I have had a previous childs passport but as I couldn’t find it I said yes but explained the old one was lost and had no drama.
As for the the visa say no. You have just travelled on a tourist visa so you will be fine. You would only have problems if you had already had a tier 5 visa as it can only be used once.
I’d get your passport renewed. You dont know if after those 2 years you will want to come straight home and it will save any possible issues along the way. Better to be safe than sorry and end up on a flight home.
Hi mate – your website was a lifesaver – thanks!
I found out yesterday that my visa is accepted so UK here I come!
Just a few qustions if you could help me out:
– Do you have to have a return flight on the YMV? Some people have said things like you won’t be able to get in on your visa if you do not have a flight home?
– Do you need an address or is this just as a safety net incase they ask you at the airport?
– Can you tell me the best travel insurance (health etc) for someone on the YMV?
Thanks so much – you are awesome.
Cheers,
Cass.
Hey Cass congrats on the visa. No need for a return flight as you are going to live there so that ones easy.
The address I just gave as the hostel I was booked to stay at. It just serves as proof you have somewhere to stay and wasn’t checked up that I aware of.
Once you arrive in the UK on your visa you are able to use the UK health system much like medicare at home so thinks like you would claim on medicare now go to the NHS. If you needed other insurance then follow up with companies here for contents insurance etc as you aren’t really travelling on the visa you are living abroad.
Hope that helps.
Hi,
Its Heather again. Thank you Aussie Nomad & Ryan for answering my previous questions.
Sorry I need you to bombard you with more questions.
Thanks in advance again!
1. At http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/working/tier5/youthmobilityscheme/supportingevidence/maintenance/
it states “The documents must be original, on the official letter-headed paper or stationery of the organisation and have the official stamp of that organisation”
what is the ‘official stamp’ ?
I have a bank statement in which my financial institution sends to me by post. Is the official stamp the logo of the financial institution?
2. Can the passport sized photo be the exact same photo I used for my passport (I recently renewed my passport) or does it have to be a different photo?
3. If I submit now ie today (1 Oct 2011) and put 1 Jan 2012 as the date to travel to the UK on my form, can my actual flight be after like 6 Jan 2012 or 14 Jan 2012 & etc?
Hi Heather,
As for the official letter/stamp its just a way to prove the document is an original. If you have a bank statement then that is all you need. A stamp in my opinion would only be needed if you got a letter from your bank manager and it was stamped with something from their office to prove its real.
Passport photo can be anything you want as long as it meets the requirements on the form. They just need it as the visa that gets stuck into your passport includes that image.
You can fly in anytime after your visa starts. Just don’t arrive beforehand otherwise they will have you entering the country on a tourist visa and not your working holiday visa.
Hope that helps.
Just want to thank you for the insight. I went into the city today to get it all done, just about to send my application etc.. away.
I got the bank to print something that shows how much money I have in my account, has all my name, account number, bank logo and a stamp so im hoping thats enough. Unless they need something that shows past transactions?
Fingers crossed I get that nice email telling me its all good!
Thanks again.
Cam you will be fine with the bank document you have as they just need some form of proof you have the money. If its all stamped and so forth from the bank I doubt you would have a problem.
Good luck and maybe I’ll see you over here in the UK sometime soon.
It all went well! I didn’t actually receive an email though… just a package in the post with my passport with the visa in it, so that was a nice surprise!
I’m enjoying reading your posts/FB msgs so maybe I will see you over there. I’m leaving in a couple of weeks wooo!
Hi,
Thanks again Aussie Nomad!
I’m just about to complete the last page of the application ie declaration on http://www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk and it has a field called “signature” with today’s date. Do I just enter in my full name? I find it a bit confusing because I’d assume that would have to be handwritten.
Thanks again.
-Heather
Hi Heather, I’d just type your name, bit hard to sign it when it’s an online form. Looks like they have recently updated a lot of the links to apply as well so would love some feedback on exactly what you had to fill out to apply now. I can then keep the blog updated and as relevant as possible for everyone.
Thanks again Aussie Nomad,
I’ve become a little hesitant after reading the youth mobility guidance at http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/pbs/tier5youthmobilityguidance1.pdf
In paragraph 51 it states “The funds requirement for YMS is £1600 for which 10 points will be awarded. This amount must be held in the applicant’s personal bank account on the date of the application for entry clearance.”
However paragraph 53 states “All evidence must be dated no more than one month before the application is submitted.”
My last bank statement will show that my closing balance on the 30th of September, 2011 was more than 1600 pounds.
Will this document be accepted if the date I paid for my application is either the 8th, 9th or 10th of October, 2011?
Thanks in advance
You should be fine Heather as long as you get the information posted off before the 30th of October.
Hi there, I know that this blog is about the youth mobility visa but I was just wondering if any of you knew anything about the UK ancestry visa. My boyfriend is Australian and Is going to move over to the UK to live with me on the 4th. His grandmother was born in Scotland therefore he’s entitled to this visa. He sent off all of the documents yesterday but I was just wondering if any of you know how quick the process is? And also how long it takes to get from Sydney to Manila via express post? and is 3 weeks enough time to get it processed and back to him?
Thank youuu 😀
Thank you very much for your website. It’s great to be able to help eachother out with updated info and stuff. The whole visa process has been a little bit frustrating and stressful to say the least. I did my online application on theUK Border Agency website which seemed to be down constantly for maintenance or the links never worked. There are also no contact numbers from Australia or email addresses to ask questions.
I do agree with the people that say the process isn’t easy. I can’t believe you have to submit your online application as well as posting everything. Why bother doing the online part of it? It seems to be a waste of time as you post the form anyway. With the amount of time the website had maintenance issues It took me like 2 weeks to even complete the online application.
I paid for my application today and it seems the price has gone up from what I have read on here. I paid $309. I have my biometrics appointment next Monday and will post off my documents after my appointment.
Goodness, it’s all a bit of a waiting game I guess. Good luck to you all and thanks again for the website & up to date info and replies. It’s so nice to see people taking the time to help others out. 🙂
Kim W
Hi Kim. Sounds like you went to hell and back to get your application form processed. I was not aware of the price increase (will look into it and update the blog) but I have noticed recently that they have been changing the links around on the site as I have had to upadate the links in my blog posts so they would work again.
I don’t see why we need to print the online form either but hey at least it saves you hand writing all of the form huh 🙂
good luck with everything and do let me know if anything else with the application has changed so I can update the blog to reflect it.
Thanks for that. You’ve been a big help. My ongoing saga continues today with my visa issues. I am starting to wonder if it’s all going to be worth it in the end! I’m hoping it is, just frustrated that it’s so difficult.
Just like the rest of you, I’m now having problems with getting the correct statement from my bank (good old Westpac). I have my biometrics appointment on Mon 31st October so was hoping that I’d be able to send all of my docs off after the appoinment. Um, no such luck that would be too easy wouldn’t it?
So today I popped into the bank today and gave my speel about what I needed and why. I had to explain it like 5 times to the bank teller and finally she understood what I meant (well so I thought). So she prints out this “duplicate copy” of a statement that is totally wrong. It had my previous address on it which was incorrect because the woman checked my updated address. Secondly the statement was from Nov 10 – May 11. Aggghh Did I mention I forked out $7.50 for her mistake.
So, I went back to another teller to explain my issue and asked for a proper statement to be printed out for me (on company letterhead and with the logo etc). Oh no they can’t print that out she said I should have received one in the mail. I told her no I don’t ever get statements sent to me (not sure why). I received an online statement last week (first one in like forever) but that is no good to me.
So she proceeds to print me out another copy of a statement this time of my other account (my day to day account). GGRRRRRR
I then had to speak to a third person who said they would have to order me the statement and post it out which would take 1 week. Why is it so hard for them to print this out there & then? Anyway, so now I have to sit and wait until Thurs next week until I get the statement. Soooooooooooo annoying. I’m really fed up with this whole thing.
Anyway so instead of sending my application off weeks ago, I’ll be waiting another week or more until It gets sent off. I’m starting to stress about my airfare (that the cheap deals won’t be avaiable and that the hostel I’m looking at will be booked out or the price will keep going up). Anyway, not much I can do about the whole thing.
Sorry to whinge about it, I’m just having a bad day I think. It will be GREAT once I get my visa and can start planning everything properly.
Kim
Hi all, Just a quick question, I sent of my application yesterday with all neccesary documents. However on the online form i put down i had traffic offences, which were driving a motorcycle whist not under direction, and running a stop sign. i have not included a court document to show this. Has anybody done this? Will i be fine?Just have to wait and see now i guess!
Hi Craig. i’ve not had problems with any traffic offences but do remember someone leaving a comment saying they had the same issue as you. I think they were ok in the end but if you are really worried I’d call up and find out for sure.
Hi there, I was wondering if you could help me because I am going to go insane or set fire to something. Where is this magical personal details form? I’ve been combing the internet for it but I haven’t found it anywhere. I don’t know what to do!
Hi Marija,
I think the personal details form is the online application you fill at https://www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk/
Maria I’d have to agree with Heather here. I’d expect that form to be the one you either complete online or download and fill out yourself. I’ve noticed the website has had some major overhauls recently so am trying to work it all out and update the links in my posts above to help.
I received my approved visa in the mail today!
Thanks for helping out Aussie Nomad!
Maria, the personal details form is definately the form you fill out at https://www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk/ and then print off.
I handed this with Appendix 7, bank statement, passport & old passport (if you necessary). They even sent back things they didn’t need like my extra bank statement & paper clip. haha!
I think there is a seperate Personal Details Form we need to fill out and I think I have finally found it. Has anyone else sent this off or not? It’s a form on the UK Border Agency website. This is all doing my head in to be honest. I have a headache dealing with this visa stuff.
I had my Biometrics done today but can’t sen off my documents until I get my bank statement (hopefully later this week). Starting to get a bit nervous that the price of my ticket is going to be really expensive by the time I book. That and the fact that the hostel I want to stay at might be sold out. I know the websites advise you not to but does anyone think I should just go ahead and book my ticket/accommodation in the hope my visa is approved? I mean I don’t see there being any issues (I have no convictions or anything).
Oh, one more thing. Do you need two passport photos? One that’s attached to your online application form and then another one? Or is it just the one that is attached to the form?
Thanks heaps guys.
Oh sorry one more thing – I wore a headband when I got my passport photos done. I hope that’s OK. I read you can’t have anything on your head! Yikes, I think I”m becoming paranoid lol
When I handed my online application form to the guy today (for my Biometrics appointment) he asks me “Oh, do you have another copy of this?”. I said “No, that’s the only one”. It was a tiny bit creased but gee……….
Do they seriously not want foreigners in the UK? If that’s the case, they are going about things the right way. LOL
I am applying for a Youth Mobility Visa but I have already had a Tier Four General student visa when I was an exchange student – is that OK?
Hi, how soon after submitting the initial application would I be required to go to my biometric data appointment? I have recently applied for a new passport and may not recieve it for a few weeks and obviously I will need this with me for my appointment hence my concern.
Matt you can pick the date of your biometric appointment when you apply online (you could when I applied) so you should be fine to pick any day you like
Hi Everyone,
I’m sorry for my huge ridiculously paranoid messages. My visa has been approved (6 days) so I’m very happy. Thanks to all who answered my questions and sorry for being a huge pain in the butt.
Matt – with your question, I don’t believe there is any set time frame from when you submit the initial application to when you are required to go to the biometric appointment however I’d assume the sooner the better. I actually had my visa put in my old passport (it’s still current but going to expire next year & is a bit tatty). I’m now going to apply for a new one. You are allowed to carry two (the old one with the visa in it & the new one) with you. Perhaps you could do that? Either that or you will just have to wait for the new passport & hope it’s OK? Good luck.
Hi Kimberley
I am just about to send away all of my documents for my Visa application to Manilla. They are:
1. Express Post Platimum ( +return Express Post Platimum envelope)
2. Stamped application for Visa
3. Current + old passports + photocopies of old passports signed by a JP
4. 2 passport photographs- do I need to write my name on the back?
5. Appendix 7 points based self assessment form
6. Letter from bank stating I have the right amount of funds
7. Certified bank statement
8. Travel documentation
9. Letter from parents
10. Letter of confirmation from school i am working at in UK
Is that ok?? Is there anything else that i need?
Im sorry for all the questions 🙂
Hi, great blog
Just a quick one if anyone knows the answer. I am planning on travelling for 5 months before entering the UK. If I apply before leaving, i know there is a date you say you want the visa to start from, but is there a maximum amount of time before I need to enter the UK? I’m a bit unsure if you need to be in the country within 3 months?…
Cheers
Pete I set my visa start date to be 2 months after I arrived in Europe so I could explore there without missing out on the full 2 years of it. I don’t think you would have a problem starting it 5 months out.
Hi!
Thankyou for this blog, it has been really helpfull!
When i press on the link ‘Appendix 7 Self Assessment Form’ i cant find the form that you are talking about. Can you please tell me how to find it? Its probably really obvious, thanks 🙂
Hi Claerwen, glad you’ve found the site useful. The UK Visa Office changed their website all around and I’m in the process of going through it all and updating my site to relfect the new changes.
I’m not sure if that form is still required but at present you are correct the link does not work.
Thats ok, thanks for your reply 🙂
So pretty much the documents you need to send are your current passport, old passports, bank statement and your appliation form?
I believe so but maybe one of the others that have just finished getting their visa can confirm that if they reply. I know Kimberly who commented above has just gone through the process.
Ok thankyou for your help 🙂
Hi Claire,
Yep, you send off your Application Form (with the stamp from your Biometric Appointment), your passport (and any old passports you have), 1 x photo (write your name on the back) and paper clip it to the Application Form. You also need your proof of funds from the bank. That is all you need. Put it in the Express Post Platinum Envelope and enclose another one for them to send back to you.
PS Don’t stress if it takes a while for your passport to come back to you. I received an email from Manila to say my visa will be dispatched last Monday and I only got mine back yesterday (so that’s over a week).
Kimberley
Also – the Application Fee is $304.00 (that’s what I paid a few weeks ago). In a previous post I accidentally wrote $309.00 but that’s wrong.
Just with that Personal Details Form, it was a bit confusing but after lots of investigating we don’t need to fill that one out. That’s only for people who do not fill out the Application Form online. If you are a kiwi or aussie then you must submit the Application Form online (hence you do NOT need the Personal Details Form). Just something else to confuse us!
Ok thanks so much Kimberley! That made me feel a lot more confident 🙂
I sent it all away and so now ill just wait.. hope you have a great trip!
Thanks Claire and I’m sure you will be fine and get your visa! When are you going over? I’ve booked my ticket and am flying on 15th January, get to London the next day. Can’t wait but a bit nervous as well. It’s going to be one big adventure!
What kind of job are you going to look for?
Im going over at the beginning of January, yeah I am a bit nervous as well but im excited to begin a new adventure! I am working in a school over there. What kind of job are you lookig for?
Hi Claire/Kimberley.
Just wondering if you might be able to help me out, I’ve just submitted my application for a YM Visa online & I’ve booked in my biometric appointment – I’m just confused whether I need to post my application off before the appointment OR whether I post everything off together after this appointment? Just thought I would ask those tht have recently gone through the process 🙂 thanks heaps!
Hi Molly, you send off your application after the biometric appointment. They will stamp your form etc then when I did it give you the address to send everything off to.
Thank you! This site has been a lifesaver 🙂 hope you’re still enjoying your time over there!
Hi anyone who know’s the answer, i am about to send off my application for my yms visa. And am wondering if i should send both ways express post? as Registered post is only within australia..pretty sure I have everything I need. fingers crossed!
Hi Carly
I used Express Post Platinum both ways for my Youth Mobility Scheme Visa.
Hey Guys
Just a quick question – how much $$$ did you have saved up to take over to the UK with you? Also, how do you access the money (before getting a UK bank account). I’ve joined an Agency ENA which is assisting me in getting a job as a carer/support worker. I’ve done the interview on the Gold Coast & I am doing a week’s training in their London office. After that hopefully I’ll get placed in a job. They help with the bank account but I won’t have that for about a month (maybe longer) so not sure the best way to access my funds? I could always take a lump sum out or use my EFT/Credit card but I’m conscious they probably will charge me a fortune!
Thanks guys
Kim
Hi Kim, before I left OZ I put all my money into a NAB Gold Account. Costs you $10 a month and you don’t pay any transaction fees or international conversion fees while using your card abroad. Saved me a fortune as I got money out when I wanted too. You can also look at a 28 Degrees Mastercard which has no fees and lets you add money to it and withdraw like a normal card as well.
I did 2 months around europe before landing in London so my money situation was different but keep these things in mind. For your first month I would budget around £1500 for a months rent and deposit on a flat as you have to pay up front and deposit is normally 6 weeks rent.
Travel with an oyster card for a week in zone 1 and 2 (most common areas) is £27. Add in food and other activities on top of that and your away.
Getting a bank account is easy as. All you need is proof of address in the UK and your set. I updated my address on my bank account back home and printed off an online statement with it on there. Was all signed up on half an hour.
Hope that helps and ask away if you have anymore questions.
G’day mate,
I’ve got a question for you on the whole visa application thing…. first of all though, thank you for both the posts, they are great, very well written and easy to follow.
I’ll be travelling to Europe in March and want to apply for (and hopefully be approved for) the Tier 5 visa just as you have. However, I won’t be in the UK til about September, so I want to leave it as long as possible to apply and avoid eating too much into my visa.
Q1: would it be possible to fill in the visa and book my biometrics scan for say a day before I leave for Europe, then send all the paperwork off the same day and have my parents address on it, they can then forward paperwork to me somewhere in Europe?
Q2. If I have my biometrics scan say 3 weeks before I leave (allowing 2 weeks for processing and 1 week for delivery of documentation) can they then backdate it 3 months from that point? I’ve read that it can be backdated by 3 months, but I am not sure at what point it can be backdated from, i.e. the date I first apply for it (and sign my name), the day my biometrics are taken, the day they finally approve it, etc?
D’oh, moment of madness – been sitting at work and my mind has gone to mush……. you have to send your passport off with your biometrics data so of course you can’t do this on the very last day! So I have to do it at least 3 weeks beforehand…….
My second question is still valid though, at what point do they backdate it?
Hi, I did a search on the net and found this for you:
You should be aware that you can backdate your UK Tier 5 visa application. By doing this, you can request the effective date of the visa to be backdated by up to three months from the date of approval. You should know, however, that you will not be able to enter the UK until the effective date of the visa. Backdating your application, however, is often a good idea because it takes much of the stress of moving to an international destination off of your shoulders. You can wait for your approval to come in before you start planning for your move. When you talk to people about a potential job, renting a home or apartment, and so forth, you will find that you can then give them a firm and definite move date or start date. This makes it far easier to plan your move.
There is a space on your UK Tier 5 visa application that allows you to backdate the start date. Unless you are in a big hurry to move to the United Kingdom, you may want to consider backdating the start date by at least a month or two, if not three, so that you have ample time to plan your relocation.
Hi Kimberley,
Thanks for that. By the sounds of it, there is a tickbox or similar on the visa application so you can request it to be backdated. So I THINK (going from the information that is in the post above) that the backdating will occur when the visa application is processed AFTER your biometric scan, which is good news.
I am just confused because you fill in the form online initially, then print it out and have it signed at your biometrics appointment, so I was/am hoping that the visa is backdated from the point where it is processed after the biometrics, not from the point where you initially fill out the form online and submit it.
So, hopefully and from what I can tell from your information, it is back dated from the final point where it is approved, after your biometrics scan.
Thanks,
J
Hey Horto, I’m going over at the same time and just got my visa a week or so ago. On the form, it doesn’t say “do you want to backdate it” as such, but it states the date you want your visa to start from. I just put my date of entry into UK even though I am going straight into a European tour. They ended up backdating just a little over 3 months from the date they received the application, which was great, really appreciated, so I would say the 3 months is not TOO strict but they probably aren’t allowed to backdate more than 3 months from receipt of your actual application in the post. Hope that helps!
PS remember to read the info they have on the Border Agency website, as processing times vary throughout the year – e.g. this time of year is not peak so I got it really fast, but I think from March to around October it is peak season and I remember reading it can take up to 2 months to get your visa back in that time. And in that 2 months they have your passport, so plan well! 🙂
Lily, thank you thank you thank you! That is exactly what I was looking for. Cheers!
I will be applying online in early jan, biometrics in late Jan (hopefully) giving 8 weeks to get the passport back. Fingers crossed!
Hey!
I just got my YMS in the mail, gave work my notice and let friends over there know I’m on my way. BUT… booking a flight?? Do I have to buy a return ticket or is one way sufficient? Couldn’t find anywhere on the UK border site that tells me.
What did you do, sorry didn’t see the answer of my scan of the previous posts.
Jeannette one way will be fine just make sure you know the address of the place you are staying to fill in on the arrival form for customs. I travelleda round Europe for a bit before flying into London from italy and it was only one way and I never had any problems. I’ve come and gone a few times now as well and never been asked, just show them my visa and all is good.
Hi Jeannette,
Could you pls tell me how long it took for you to get the passport back from the visa office from the day you received e-mail ??
I have got the e-mail on 16th but havent got the passport yet and no tracking summary is seen in auspost :(:(..
I called them and their response is so cold and asked me to wait and make a call tomorrow..:(
Hi Guys,
I got my youth mobility visa approval today. Happy and at the same time a bit nervous, as i took my decision to move out of Australia for a while due to the relationship break down and couldn’t cope with it. Now that I need to come back successful and not a a loser. I am not sure how lucky I will be in finding a job..anyone out there to help on this ???? Pls share your experience and would be appreaciated
Thanks a heaps
Linda
Just a quick update on Youth Mobility Visa. Everything remain the same except the visa fee. Its now AUD 331 and the self assessment form can be found here http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/visas/vaf9-app7.pdf.
I received the e-mail from manila today that they will be dispatching my documents in 2-3 days. :):):).
P.S: The fund needs to be present only on the day of your application, not 90 days. But keep that amount safe in your account until you hear from them 🙂
Cheers
Wait so you still need appendix 7? Up further Kimberly didn’t include it in what she sent.. I sent my forms in last week without that.. I hope I didn’t need it, can’t remember it saying I needed it anywhere..
Yes JB you still need the appnedix 7 form.
“Depending on the country where you live, you may need to make your application online or using application form VAF9. To find out which method you should use, see ‘More information’ below.
All applicants must also complete and submit Appendix 7 of the form.
You can download application form VAF9, Appendix 7 and the guidance notes from the right side of this page.”
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/working/tier5/youthmobilityscheme/applying/
Documents reqiured*
1. You application form with Biometric stamp of approval on it.
2. All your passports ( old and expired/ invalid)
3. One color passport size photo with your name on the back (4.5cm*3.5cm). Check this link for more info on photographs : http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/working/tier5/youthmobilityscheme/supportingevidence/photographsandpassports/
4.Proof of maintenance funds. Bank statements are the best. just get a recent bank statement which shows enough fund in your account at the time of application.
5.VAF9-Appendix 7- self assessment form ( which is used to calculate your points.) The form is right here : http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/visas/vaf9-app7.pdf
6. self addressed platinum express post envelope ( remember to note the tracking number as they dont provide any information from the processing centre regarding this).
THIS IS ALL WHAT YOU NEED!!!
If you have all the above mentioned documents in hand, You are ready to apply and I cant think of any reason to refuse.
I really really appreciate Aussienomad for starting a link like this. I am just updating if any changes have occurred since he applied.
Cheers
Ok just got my approval email, wooooooo!!! so you don’t need to send it anymore I guess! Wow was so nervous this morning after reading that! This blog has helped so so much! Thankyou! And yeah it definately helps updating everything! I just sent a letter from the bank, application form and photo, and return envelope. 🙂
Congratulations and sorry to make you a bit nervous there :-P..
I think the whole drama is to get the 330 dollars in the name of processing otherwise I guess its a one minute job to verify the bank statements and the passport which can be easily done at the appointment centre. They should do some spot processing than wasting our time and money 🙁
Hi JB,
Have you got your passport back ?? i got the e-mail on 16th and havent recieved my passport back yet :(:(.. and no events found on the tracking summary of Aus post…Pls let me know if you have recieved yours
Hey, no I haven’t yet, but it’s only been a couple days, apparently aus post is running behind or something though. I can’t track mine, forgot to write the number down! There’s comments further up saying it took others a while too. I hope it comes soon! I’ll let you know if mine comes, I’m sure it’s just because it’s almost Christmas though 🙂
Thanks JB. Yeah today I could track mine and hopefully I will receive it in a few hours. Whoooo! What a relief.
Yes JB you still need the appnedix 7 form.
Depending on the country where you live, you may need to make your application online or using application form VAF9. To find out which method you should use, see ‘More information’ below.
All applicants must also complete and submit Appendix 7 of the form.
You can download application form VAF9, Appendix 7 and the guidance notes from the right side of this page.”
Pls read from the link below. You can down load the form VAF9-Appendix- form from the left hand side of this page.
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/working/tier5/youthmobilityscheme/applying/
Documents reqiured*
1. You application form with Biometric stamp of approval on it.
2. All your passports ( old and expired/ invalid)
3. One color passport size photo with your name on the back (4.5cm*3.5cm). Check this link for more info on photographs : http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/working/tier5/youthmobilityscheme/supportingevidence/photographsandpassports/
4.Proof of maintenance funds. Bank statements are the best. just get a recent bank statement which shows enough fund in your account at the time of application.
5.VAF9-Appendix 7- self assessment form ( which is used to calculate your points.) The form is right here : http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/visas/vaf9-app7.pdf
6. self addressed platinum express post envelope ( remember to note the tracking number as they dont provide any information from the processing centre regarding this).
THIS IS ALL WHAT YOU NEED!!!
If you have all the above mentioned documents in hand, You are ready to apply and I cant think of any reason to refuse.
I really really appreciate Aussienomad for starting a link like this. I am just updating if any changes have occurred since he applied.
Cheers
Big thanks to you Starcity and everyone else for providing so much useful information here recently. I’m aiming to update the post above with all of your information to make everything clear for others looking to apply for the visa.
When you all arrive in the UK next year let me know and the first beer is on me to say thanks.
Hi Aussie Nomad,
How do I thank you for creating this blog and helping each of us. I am leaving Australia on 19 an will reach there on 20th. I am not sure on how should I proceed with applying for work. Do you have any suggestions for any job sites, such as we have here (seek.com.au) ??
Thanks a ton
Hi its Heather again,
Merry Christmas all!
I’ve had my YMS visa approved and I’m currently filling out an application for a National Insurance Number.
However I’m unable to see my visa details at the moment as I’m on a short vacation and have left my passport at home.
For those that have had their youth mobility visa recently approved, can I please ask…
my YMS visa is ‘valid from’ 01/01/2012, will the ‘Valid from’ date be 01/01/2014 or 31/12/2013?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Heather, I’ve just checked my visa and they date it from the 01/01/2012 to 01/01/2014 in your case. Hope that helps.
Happy New Year everyone (though I’m a bit early I know). So I’m off to the UK in like 2 weeks. I can’t believe it!!! I have 4 days of work left then a week to pack and do last minute things. It’s going to be awesome and my ultimate dream come true. I’m bracing myself for the cold weather though but it’s all going to be worth it. This is one of the most exciting things I think we will probably do in our lives and I bet the 2 years is going to wiz by so fast! Any tips for sightseeing in London? Should I do one of those red bus hop on/off bus tours? Thanks again for your help/tips etc.
Hi Kimberley. Definately brace yourself for the cold weather as looking out my window its rain and wind all over the place. As for sightseeing you can look into the free walking tours offered here or you can jump on a hop on hop off bus as well.
If you like there are a few London gatherings of travel bloggers and the like you can come along to and meet a bunch of folk that love to talk travel and can give you plenty of tips on things to see and do. I’m also free for a coffee or pint if you want to catch up.
Londons a great place and I’m always happy to welcome more folk into it.
Hi everyone,
Thanks for all the advice above. I have just applied for my visa and have a couple of questions. My biometrics appointment is Jan 27th.
1. Do I need to send the forms via post to the biometrics location BEFORE I have the biometrics taken, or simply take them along with me on the day? So much conflicting info on this one! At $3.50 a minute I don’t want to have to ring up to clarify but will if need be.
2. RE: supporting documentation, this is what I believe I need to send in, after biometrics:
– the visa form stamped with biometrics, the appendix 7 and a passport photo of myself
– letter from the bank stating how much I have available (over 1600 pounds).
– copy of my criminal history (DUI offence, so I’m sending it in)
– passport
What I DON’T think I need (am I right?):
Bank statement – since I’m sending a letter from my bank confirming funds
Birth Certificate – since I’m sending passport as proof of my date of birth?
Appreciate any help on this!
Hi there my forms were received on january the 5th 2012 and i have flights for the 20th of january just wondering if any-one could tell me if i should receive my visa and passport before then thanks.
Hi Travis,
I would think that you would get your visa back by the 20th January but it wasn’t really a good idea to book your flights first (just in case). Luckily you have been approved which is great news, there may just be a bit of a delay due to the public holidays/xmas period.
From memory my passport with visa in it took a while to come back to me as well. I was getting a tad worried but luckily it turned up!
Good luck
Hi Horto15
Yep you have everything you need, except maybe I’d still send a copy of my bank statement even though you have a letter from the bank. That’s just me though (I’m over cautious) but others may disagree??
Also – you don’t post any forms before the Biometrics. You send them AFTER the appointment.
Hope that helps.
Hi Kim,
Thanks for the response. I can’t really send a bank statement because I have a viridian home loan, so even though I have a lot of money available (well over the minimum) my statements actually read -$190K!! which might not look good. So I will just go with the bank letter, fingers crossed.
So I definitely don’t need to post a copy of the online form and the appointment booking to the Melbourne office before I turn up for my biometrics? That’s good news! So confusing – the email you receive from them actually says you do have to, then I think another from them says you don’t have to!
Hi Horoto,
Technically you should also include appendix 7 self assessment form, though a few of us got granted without the form as well.
“VAF9-Appendix 7- self assessment form ( which is used to calculate your points.) The form is right here : http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/visas/vaf9-app7.pdf“.
Thanks
Hey Starcity, I believe Horto already mentioned the Appendix 7 form.
Horto – I agree then with you, you should be fine with the letter from the bank. Is it on company letterhead & signed?
I know the information on other websites is unbelievably conflicting and rather frustrating as you never know what is correct.
You are good to go I believe and you definately DONT need to send any paperwork to the Melbourne office (before your Biometrics). Submit your paperwork after you do the Biometrics.
Oh Yes he did ..Sorry about that.
I agree with Kim…I guess you are good to go Horoto
Cheers
Hi Kim and Starcity,
Thanks a lot for your advice.
Yes the bank letter is on their letterhead, with logo and stamped by the bank manager, it’s black and white but hopefully that won’t be an issue.
Looking forward to the appointment on the 27th now!
ok thats good news yeah i know it was just because i had to change my flights to that date and i had read on the site that 5 days is 98% so thought 12 days should be okay but thanks for your help whats the earliest you can receive your visa.
Hi Travis,
I got the approval on the same day they received my documents. But it took 7 days for the passport to reach me (including Saturday and Sunday). I could only track my document only after 4 days from the day I got the e-mail of approval.
Love your blog! Completely agree about the ambiguity of the UK FCO!
Just a q… Did they ask you for copies of your parents passports? What other docs did thet ask for besides the application form, valid pass port and bank statement?
Hi Bron,
Just have a look above about 5 posts I asked the same question about a week ago and the answer is there to read 🙂
All you need is a letter from the bank or a statement and make sure it’s stamped on every page if it’s just printed out and the letter needs to be stamped but the bank will know that, your passport, application form, a return addressed envelope, a passport photo with name on back and do appendix 7 to be safe, although I didn’t and I got accepted. You don’t need your parents passports or anything like that at all. You will feel like its not enough but as long as you cross everything off on the list you will be fine! And make sure your bank stuff is within 30 days of application. Oh and wrote your return envelope tracking number down! I didn’t and couldn’t track which is so nerve wracking because it can take a while to get back!
definitely the most comprehensive information I’ve found, far easier than trawling through the ridiculous uk visa sites… thanks buddy!