From 31 January 2024, young people from Andorra and the UK will have the chance to live, work or travel to each other's countries for up to 2 years, thanks to the launch of a new shared visa scheme between both nations.
Youth Mobility Schemes (YMS) provide cultural exchange programmes that allow young people from participating countries and territories, to experience life in the UK.
Each YMS is subject to a bilateral, reciprocal arrangement which also provides benefit to British citizens seeking to experience overseas life, with the detail negotiated and agreed between the relevant parties.
Under the new arrangements up to 100 Andorran nationals between the ages of 18 and 30 will be able to apply for the new visa. In addition to the age criteria, prospective applicants must also be able to demonstrate they have £2,530 in savings and also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge before they apply for their visa.
If successful, those with a YMS visa will be able to live and work in the UK for up to 24 months. They will also be able to enter the UK at any time while the visa is valid and leave and come back at any time during the stay.
The British Ambassador to Spain and Andorra, Hugh Elliott, said:
The Youth Mobility Scheme is an excellent opportunity for young Andorran and British people to immerse themselves in each other's cultures, making life-long connections that will bolster our already strong people-to-people links. I hope those eligible can take advantage of this exciting new scheme and apply.
The bilateral agreement between the UK and Andorra is not only beneficial for young Andorrans, but also for young British citizens. The YMS visa promotes cultural exchange and strengthens ties between the UK and participating nations by offering individuals the chance to experience life in different cultures, gain valuable work experience, and engage with local communities. This reciprocal arrangement creates a platform for young people from Andorra and the UK to learn from each other, share their unique perspectives, and foster lasting connections.
