The UK–Uruguay Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) continues to open doors in 2026, giving young people from both countries the chance to live, work and immerse themselves in a new culture for
up to two years.
Each year, 500 British and 500 Uruguayan citizens aged 18 to 30 can take part in this reciprocal programme, designed to strengthen ties between the United Kingdom and Uruguay while offering a life-changing international experience.
Launched in 2024, the scheme has already helped hundreds of young people build global skills, improve language abilities and gain first-hand experience of life abroad. Notably, this is the only Youth Mobility Scheme the UK currently maintains with a Latin American country, highlighting the unique relationship between the two nations.
What is the youth mobility scheme?
The Youth Mobility Scheme allows eligible young adults to:
- Live abroad for up to 24 months
- Work legally (though employment is not mandatory)
- Travel freely within the host country
- Study short courses or volunteer
- Experience daily life, culture and society in another country
The application process differs depending on whether you are a British citizen travelling to Uruguay or a Uruguayan citizen travelling to the UK.
Information for British citizens travelling to Uruguay
British nationals wishing to live and work in Uruguay must apply for a Working Holiday temporary residency through the Uruguayan Consulate in London.
Required documents
Applicants must attend the Consulate in person and submit:
- A valid British passport (in good condition, with at least one year before expiry)
- A medical certificate issued in the country of residence confirming no conditions that would prevent living in Uruguay
- A Police Certificate from the UK and any country lived in during the past five years (apostilled or legalised and issued within the last six months)
UK applicants can request this at: gov.uk/copy-of-police-records
-Proof of sufficient financial resources, such as bank statements or payslips (issued within 30 days of application)
- A written declaration stating the intended length of stay (up to two years)
- An apostilled or legalised birth certificate
(A certified Spanish translation will be required in Uruguay to obtain a national ID card)
Processing and arrival
- Applications are processed within 15 working days
- Once approved, applicants must enter Uruguay within 180 days
- If a visa is required, the Consulate will issue a tourist visa linked to the approved residency
- After arrival, applicants must register in person with:
- The National Migration Office
- The National Civil Identification Office
- Applicable administrative fees will apply
Contact information
Uruguayan Consulate or Embassy in the UK
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone: +44 (0)207 584 4200
Information for Uruguayan Citizens Travelling to the UK
Uruguayan nationals must apply online for a UK Youth Mobility Scheme visa.
Key eligibility requirements
You can apply if you:
- Are a Uruguayan citizen aged 18–30
- Hold a valid Uruguayan passport
- Apply from outside the UK
- Have not previously participated in the scheme
- Do not have dependants living with or financially dependent on you
What the visa allows
- Stay in the UK for up to 2 years
- Multiple entries during the visa period
- Work legally (optional)
- Travel freely
- Study short courses or volunteer
-No language, job offer or skills requirements
Financial and legal requirements
Proof of £2,530 held in a bank account for at least 28 consecutive days
A criminal record certificate
This must be requested from the Uruguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs Consulate, not the British Embassy
Payment of:
Visa application fee
Immigration Health Surcharge
Processing Time:
Most applicants receive a decision within three weeks.
More information
UK Home Office: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Official guidance: Youth Mobility Scheme visa – Overview
A unique opportunity for 2026
The UK–Uruguay Youth Mobility Scheme continues to stand out as a rare and valuable pathway for young people seeking international experience. Whether it’s building a career, learning a new language or simply discovering life in another country, the programme offers a practical and accessible way to broaden horizons in 2026.
If you’re eligible and ready for an adventure, this may be the perfect time to apply. Photo by Sdrawkcab at English Wikipedia.