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Work and Travel in United Kingdom

Help us grow. share what you know about getting work in united kingdom for travellers., volunteer and paid work opportunities in united kingdom for travellers.

The United Kingdom (UK) is known for being one of the most expensive destinations in Europe. For those who want to travel in the UK, a volunteer role is one of the best ways to see the country without paying a lot for it. There are plenty of volunteer and paid work opportunities in the United Kingdom for travellers. The UK may not be part of the Schengen zone, but the majority of Western travellers will easily be able to take advantage of visas. Whilst you explore the four countries that make up the union, work in the UK and you’ll be left with memories that will last forever. Departing from the traditional travel guides for the United Kingdom, here are some of the volunteering opportunities in the UK you should look into. 1. Explore Archaeological Wonders in England and Wales The UK has a long, rich history which we’ve barely scratched the surface of. Sites around the UK are searching for archaeology students and trained professionals to give them a helping hand. Volunteer in the UK and you could be exploring old Roman sites in York or Bath. Experience levels will vary depending on the project, as will any opportunities for compensation. 2. Live in Self-Sufficient Communities A growing trend in the UK is self-sufficient communities. Communities of people from all backgrounds live together, grow their own food, and manage all repairs and household duties without outside help. They may also be in the form of housing cooperatives. Volunteer in the UK and you could join up with one of these communities. It’s an excellent chance to learn new skills and make new friends. You don’t need any experience to work and travel in the UK if you volunteer in a community like this. 3. Secure the Legacy of the UK with National Park Conservation Travel in the United Kingdom and you’ll see that much of the country is covered by national parks. National parks often run chiefly from volunteers. Volunteers from around the world are able to take part in national park conservation projects in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. No matter what skills you have as you travel in the UK, you’re surely going to find a position to suit you.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNITED KINGDOM

The United Kingdom is notorious for having one of the strictest borders in the world. Thankfully, Western visitors should have few problems volunteering in the UK. If you’re from the European Union (EU) and want to travel in the UK, you can enter without a visa. You can also do volunteering and paid work in the country without a visa until the country leaves the EU, which at the earliest will be March 2019. But what if you’re outside the UK? Travellers from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, and Korea can apply for the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme if they’re between the ages of 18 and 30. They also have to meet eligibility requirements. This allows them to take paid and unpaid work in the UK for up to two years. Many foreigners prefer to live and work in the UK long-term if they can secure this visa. It’s relatively easy to get due to reciprocal agreements the UK has with the countries involved. Furthermore, there are large communities of people on these visas in London and Manchester, so you won’t feel alone if you decide to stay here for a while. For travellers from countries like Russia, the US, and South Africa they will have to apply for a Tier 5 (Temporary Worker – Charity Worker) visa. To work and travel in the UK you must have a position with a registered organisation and have full sponsorship from them. Take note that the UK usually takes at least a month or two to process visa applications.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN UNITED KINGDOM

Spring work.

Thistle Camps is the conservation project for Scotland that manages older buildings. Volunteers in the UK are needed especially in spring to manage new plant growth and many of the repairs that result from harsh winters. There are also equivalents in the other countries of the UK.

SUMMER JOBS

Summer is festival season in the UK and volunteers from around the world are able to act as stewards at festivals like the Leeds Festival, Reading Festival, and the iconic Glastonbury. Volunteer in the UK throughout summer and you can also join up with summer camps. Helping the kids out and maintaining a fun atmosphere is your only task.

Autumn is the time when many disabled centres and residential care homes conduct their residential holidays for their clients. Work and travel in the United Kingdom and you will be able to manage these themed holidays setup by charities. These getaways tend to be conducted throughout autumn in order to keep costs down.

Winter in the UK is not a time of great activity. In terms of volunteering in the UK, you’ll find projects that focus on social giving. Many homeless projects are desperately searching for volunteers at this time of year, even if it’s something as simple as handing out soup in kitchens. Believe it or not, these opportunities are not just confined to locals.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN UNITED KINGDOM

Working in the United Kingdom is one of the safest places you can work and travel in. The UK is an extremely diverse country with high levels of immigration. Don’t allow the media fear-mongering to deter you. The vast majority of people in this country regularly work with foreigners and someone from abroad volunteering is seen as nothing out of the ordinary. This is the same regardless of whether you decide to work in a rural area or an urban area. You’re sure to be welcomed with open arms when you enter the UK. Do you have any prior experiences you would like to share from working in the United Kingdom?

Recent Contributors

• Edited on Nov 25 2022 by
• Edited on Jan 15 2018 by Yara

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WORKING TRAVELLER LTD 27, Lonsdale Rd, Blackpool, FY1 6EE, UNITED KINGDOM

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Live Work Play UK

5 experiences in one pack.

How does the Live Work Play UK Pack work?

Are you itching to travel and explore the UK & Europe? With a two-year work visa and income security, you can travel with confidence and peace of mind. Our program offers five different scenarios to keep you afloat, no matter what your plans may be. From top-paying London city jobs to live-in bar jobs and even castles in Scotland, we've got it all.

If you're planning on making London your home base, check out our Jumpstart London setup. We've got a great deal on housing, with a 15% discount on rent for stays of 12 weeks+. Live in central London Zone 1 for £130/wk incl. food. Great value compared to other rentals in London.

For those of you who want the nightlife of London, we have five huge bars with live in on-site housing. On the other side of the spectrum, we also have nine houses shared in Fullam reserved for semi-professionals with long-term job contracts. We have every base covered!

Jumpstart London

• Pre-departure job guarantee
• Travel flexible accommodation
• Travel friendly job
• UK Live Work Play essentials pack
• Tour Discounts

LIVE-IN PUB JOB UK

• Live-In Pub job in London or UK
• On site live-in accommodation
• Big Staff discounts

Adventure Camps

• Job offer in UK Adventure Camp
• On-site staff housing
• 3 month commitment
• Stoke Festival Pass

Live in Hotel UK

• Job in castle style hotel - UK
• Staff Accommodation
• 6 month commitment

Jumpstart Scotland

• Job in Scottish hotels & bars
• 4-6 month commitment
• Staff discounts

UK Youth mobility visa

• UK work visa guarantee
• Money back guarantee
• National insurance number
• UK bank account
• Pub Crawl & London Tour

How does the Live Work Play UK pack work?

Whats included in the UK Essentials Pack?

Everyone needs this essentials pack to get started in London! Once you arrive, we have an orientation day where you can access all your legal goodies - If you can’t make it, they can be sent to you online.

• National Insurance number
• UK SIM card
• Ongoing support in the UK
• Available to use 24 months
• Access to closed Facebook groups
• Discounted hostel stays
• Discounted Bogan Bingo events
• London Pub Crawl
• London Walking Tour
• Contiki & TWHC events at Belushi's
• Discounts on Contiki + Stoke Travel trips
• Meet & greet drinks
• A room in Notthinghill or Victoria

UK Youth Mobility Visa Eligibility

Aged 18 -35 years

From January 2024 age criteria will change from 30 years to 35 years

Hold a passport from an eligible, partnered country

(Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Republic of Korea, or Taiwan)

No criminal convictions

Have not had any criminal convictions in the last 12 months

Have No Dependants

(children or other) under the age of 18

Proof of Funds

Have access to the equivalent of £2530GBP (i.e. in your bank account for at least 28 days)

No previous UK Visa

Must not have taken part in the Youth Mobility Scheme or travelled on a UK Working Holiday Visa

What country are you in?

We have dedicated support teams for each country. Please select the country you are applying from.

Frequently asked questions

General faq, why are their five different options.

As a traveller, you can select from our live, work, and play options according to your current circumstances. We offer various choices, including live-in accommodations and outdoor adventure work placements, to cater to your needs. Regardless of your situation, choose an option that will help you solve your new challenge.

What is the essentials pack?

The essentials pack includes everything you need to legally live and work in the UK. From the collection of your biometrics card, registration for your Right to work & suitable to rent share codes, Application for your national insurance number, as well as your UK bank account, is taken care of with the essentials pack. The essentials pack activation is a group activity the working Holiday Club offers as part of our weekly orientation session on Tuesdays. I require all participants on the live reply package to start the program in London so that the essentials can be activated.

What is the visa guarantee pack?

Takes the stress away and assist with your UK Youth Mobility Visa application. We will ensure your application is 100% correct and complete before submission.

• Complete and lodge the official UK Youth Mobility Visa application on your behalf
• Create a personalised supporting documents checklist tailored to your specific circumstances
• Provide you with expert advice on your Biometric Resident Permit (BRP) and book your appointment at a time and location that suits you
• You will have direct contact with our team of Visa Experts for advice and support throughout the entire process - whenever you need it
• If there are delays, we can follow up on your application directly with our contacts at the UKVI office

Why do I have to start in London?

All participants start with a Jumpstart London, your first job guarantee and housing guarantee is offered in London. A minimum of two weeks commitment is required before a change of program and location can be made. All participants require to be in London for 10 days to collect a biometrics cards activate the essentials needed to live and work legally in the UK. If you want to change locations to one of our live in options, then I'll support team will activate those for you. Our live in hotels, live on Scotland and Beds & Bars jobs are offered based on interview outcome

Can I apply for Adventure Resorts pre departure?

Yes, our adventure resort program can be selected as you're starting program. The employer offers pre departure placement guarantees for the camps. However you must start in London first to activate your essentials pack, there you can go to your camp to start your training

Can I apply to Beds & Bars pre departure?

Our beds & bar group offers placements in London and across the UK, however vacancies for a specific location can only be offered 1 to 2 weeks prior to the required start date. It is better to apply for beds and bars from within London.

Can I apply to Jumpstart Scotland pre departure?

Depending on your arrival dates, some applicants can start with Scotland if their arrival dates coincide with the pre season intake. Our Scottish partners higher for winter season and summer seasons.

Summer season is from April to September, and winter season from October to February. If you are arriving in the UK, ready to commence work in April for the full season, then we will submit your application for a starting program. You will still need to start in London to activate your essentials pack.

Can I apply to Live In Hotels pre departure?

Yes, I but only for Guernsey and Channel islands Locations. You must be available to start in April/May and work for the full season. Mainland locations vacancies are for immediate start only, you must already be in the UK to qualify for an application.

Application Process

What happens during a consultation call.

Our consultation team will provide a comprehensive overview of the five options available in our program for living, working and playing. We will guide you through getting started and inform you about what is available upon your arrival in the UK. All applicants must begin their journey in London. Hence the London program will be activated first. Before signing up, our consultants will request your estimated arrival date to provide you with a list of guaranteed arrival dates and accommodation options.

Getting started with the Jumpstart London?

We start you off in London so that you receive a job offer and a room guarantee prior to departure. Most other placements are offered based on experience and availability, therefor a pre departure guarantee cannot be provided. The job & room guarantees are valid for the duration of your visa.

• After two weeks you can request program change,
• After two weeks request a room change, such as moving into a shared house, changing buildings, or swapping roommates.
• In your first week you can request a jobs change, as part of the orientation sessions, where your life essentials are activated, a list of additional job opportunities is presented to the group; you can apply for them instead.
• Your original job guarantee spot will remain intact; your availability status will simply be changed to unavailable.

Do I get to see my room options first?

Before beginning our live work play UK program, we will provide you with information regarding the style of your room and its availability for specific arrival dates. This will help you understand the type of accommodation offered by the program. During our consultation call, you can express your preferences and provide us with your arrival dates. Based on this, we will respond with the available options.

Do I get to pick my job guarantee options?

We will let you know the available job type based on your estimated arrival date and level of commitment you would would prefer when you first arrive. You can pick one form our job guarantee list

• Indoor events & hospitality
• Outdoor event crewing
• General labouring

What is the activation payment?

• To start the live work play UK program $399 deposit payment is payable
• Payment in full is due within 30 days of deposit payment. However, we understand that some may need payment plans, which can be made available upon request.
• To secure your room for your arrival dates is £200 holding deposit is required.

What do I get once I have paid?

• Room booking forms
• Job application pack
• Visa activation pack
• UK bank account activation
• UK Sim card shipping form
• Closed Facebook group invite

Confirmations for me?

Pre-departure, you will receive a welcome pack containing all the necessary information about your room, lease types, and the agreed move-in date and rental rate. You will also receive a welcome email from your new employer confirming your job position and pay. This email will also specify your start and training dates and any uniform requirements.

Can I change programs?

If you would like to apply for any of the other live-in programs we have on offer complete, I change my program form. We will submit a new application on your behalf. Interview request will be based on your experience, available start date and your commitment period.

Can I change jobs?

If you would like to apply for any of the other jobs in London, complete, I change my job form. Request to interview will be based on your experience, their availability for the dates you provide for work to start.

Can I change rooms?

If you would like to view any other rooms we have in London, complete, I change my room form. During the application process for the Jumpstart London you will have the option to select “place me on the waiting list” for shared rooms. You can also see all new rooms and available dates on the closed Facebook group.

UK Working Visa

What is the age limit.

18-30 years of age (at time of application)

Jan 2024 increased to 35

What passport do I need?

Hold a valid Australian, New Zealand or Canadian passport

About criminal convictions?

No criminal convictions in the last twelve months

When must I arrive?

Be planning to arrive in the UK in the next 6 months

Lastest date to apply?

Latest date to start the application is six weeks before departure (fast track options available in some cases for 3-4 week applications)

Collecting my biometric card?

You will require 10 working days in the UK to collected Biometric Card

UK work visa processing time?

Processing time 4-6 weeks

Proof of funds?

• Proof of funds £2530 available (these funds need to have been in your account for at least 28 days consecutively at the time of application)

Cost of working holiday

Our program fee.

For $1499 you get

• Five work & play option
• One essentials pack
• Visa guarantee service

If you pay to program fee on full you will receive a $200 discount. You did not require a Visa service you'll receive a further $200 discount

Work Visa fees?

• Application Fee (British High Commission Cost) is £298.00
• Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (British High Commission Cost) is £940.00

Room holding deposit London?

£200 too secure your room in London

Why is the starting accommodation city rooms?

Shared housing in London is super competitive and limited. Data from spareroom.com shows in 2022, there were 8000 requests for a room in a shared house, and only 2000 rooms were available.

City rooms have short two weeks notice period and a small holding deposit, compared to the average rooms now asking for a six-twelve months commitment and two months rent upfront.

Start with a flexible option and move into a room that fits your budget when you see it.

Why take a program?

We are able to provide work and accommodation suitable for a traveller. Everything is organised before you leave, making your transition stress free. When you get back form travel your job & rooms request are prioritised. Start earning immediately upon arrival and save your funds for travel. Share rooms with other travellers on the programs and save on rent.

Why go with us?

We have exclusive access to Zone 1 accommodation in London, at a subsidised rate. Have have exclusive access to number of shared houses in London, rented by other participants.

Our programs include live in, live out, county wide and Scotland locations. We have weekly meet & greet events in London so you can meet other travellers who have arrived at the same time as you. We also have weekly pub crawls so you can start your social circle straight away.

Transparency, we provide pre approval for jobs & rooms types before you sign up, no surprises.

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• Jobs Abroad

6 Best Work Abroad Programs in England

UK born, Liz has been addicted to travel since her late teens when she flew to Tanzania to volunt...

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International jobs in England are an ideal way to gain workplace experience in an overseas setting, boosting your resume with a range of skills whilst also putting some check-marks on your bucket list. Living in England is also the ideal way to experience the country’s multitude of personalities.

From living as if in a classical novel, roaming through the Yorkshire moors, to weekends surfing on the south coast, or nights out in the bustling cities of London, Edinburgh and Bristol, the hardest part will be finding the time to fit everything in between work commitments!

Work in England

With regards to professional development, jobs abroad in England offer an English-speaking base, a culture that’s easy to integrate with, and a melting pot of international businesses and leading global markets to learn from.

Job opportunities range from nannying, living with an English family for complete lifestyle immersion, to English teaching, pub work and positions in leading UK businesses. Read on to discover some great opportunities for work abroad in England today.

• Asian College of Teachers
• i-to-i TEFL

Scotia Personnel

• International Working Holidays
• Totalnannies Ltd.

The best providers for jobs abroad in England this year 

Editor’s note: This information was accurate at the time of publishing. Please refer to each individual program for current data.

1. Asian College of Teachers —9.37

“I have realised that I have made a perfect decision to join this course as it is an essential 'value addition' not only to my qualification but also to my overall personality as a teacher. I am short of words to thank Ms. June for being able to shape us as a wonderful, energetic, enthusiastic and learned teachers.” Read more Asian College of Teachers reviews

• Where? London
• When? Monthly
• Why? Gain practical skills training with Asian College of Teachers, a leading provider in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) courses, and job placement service. The program provides ideal preparation for securing international jobs in England, but also beyond across their international network. Participants are introduced to other applicants on the same path for support and socializing, a great chance to explore with like-minded new friends. The structured course could also be a launch-pad into a long-term career overseas, with guidance available for applicants navigating this exciting and immersive travel opportunity further beyond the initial position.
• More program info available here

2. BUNAC —9.3

“I had a great summer interning in the UK, I wish I would have more time to experience London but this opportunity was amazing! I met a lot of great people and grew a lot from being independent which will definitely help in future careers.” Read more BUNAC reviews

• When? 1-12 weeks, spring break and summer as well as year-round opportunities.
• Why? Gain professional, career experience whilst experiencing life in Britain from an inside perspective. Based in the city of London, BUNAC offers jobs abroad in England amidst a hub of British culture and international commerce. Live the London lifestyle visiting classy cocktail bars, enjoying picnics in the park and visiting more art galleries than you can cram into a week, nevermind weekend. Placements allow for career development in a fast paced environment with an international reputation, boosting your resume with experience that will make you stand out from the crowd. 

3. i-to-i TEFL —8.0

“i-to-i's TEFL course was really accessible and worked around me. It was clearly structured and therefore easy to complete. The end of unit tests were a good measure of how much I had learnt and the assignments were relevant and not too challenging. The tutors were a great help; they would reply to any queries very quickly and my assignments were often marked within a couple of days.” Read more i-to-i TEFL reviews

• When? Year-round
• Why? Never thought about teaching English in England, did you? Believe it or not, this is a totally plausible way to find work in the UK. If you get TEFL certified through i-to-i TEFL, they will provide assistance in finding an English teaching job in the United Kingdom. Your qualification will be DEAC-approved and UK-government regulated (Ofqual). Plus, once you're ready to move on from the UK, you'll be qualified to teach English practically anywhere. Hello nomad lifestyle! 

4. Scotia Personnel —9.0

“I have been working with this agency for two years now, I have enjoyed my trip, and all the experiences I was able to have. The different places I was able to see and explore were amazing. Also, all the different people I got to meet, I got to make life long friends which was really amazing.” Read more Scotia Personnel reviews

• Why? Scotia Personnel offers work abroad in England opportunities in some of the UK's most beautiful hospitality and culinary scenes. As part of the program, you'll receive assistance in finding open positions for front of house staff, food and beverage staff, conference and banqueting staff, and more. Spend time in the buzzing capital after being warmly welcomed into British culture by your hosts! Just to note, this program is currently only open to Canadian applicants. 

5. International Working Holidays —8.89

“...The coordinators and staff go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and welcomed. Meeting and making a lot of friends from around the world. Well worth it!” Read more International Working Holidays reviews

• Why? Nothing quite epitomizes the British countryside like visiting a friendly pub with a roaring fire after a stroll in the hills. This program places Kiwi participants on England jobs for foreigners in the midst of British culture, working with children as an au pair. There will be no shortage of opportunities to meet people and mix with the locals, not to mention, flexible working hours allowing time to explore further. In order to qualify, you'll need about 200 hours of experience working with kids, either at home or in a daycare.

6. Totalnannies Ltd. —10

“I learned more about myself than I ever have in the United States. The United Kingdom taught me so much about culture, education, work ethic, socialization, and more. It was the most rewarding experience of my life.” Read more Totalnannies Ltd. reviews

• Where? Birmingham, Liverpool, London, Surrey, Wirral
• Why? Totalnannies Ltd. participants are placed with professional families for work in England as a caregiver to the family’s children. The role itself is an ideal way to integrate into life in another country, as you live with a local family, offering a welcoming home environment and plenty of support. Flexible working hours also afford you with some free time to explore the local area, and with placements in several popular cities, there will be plenty to keep you occupied when you aren’t working. The living environment also offers great cultural immersion, and a chance to experience your new home within the family, a chance to explore even when you are 

Explore ALL Jobs Abroad Programs in England

You’re ready to work abroad in england.

Find amazing work abroad programs in London with help from GoAbroad

Whether it’s the cosmopolitan and endlessly-alive London scene, or the rolling rural hills straight out of a classic novel, that call your name, jobs abroad in England are certainly a great way to experience this diverse nation.

It’s not all afternoon teas and strolls through the palace, but there are a lot of great programs which will help applicants to find work in England. With positions spanning the fields of childcare, business, teaching, and more, there’s something that will fit with most skill sets too. 

The English language and modern culture are easy to adapt to, and offer a strong support system for navigating life overseas, meaning that you’ll take home a lot of happy memories and new friends, on top of a resume stacked full of employability-boosting experience.

Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare Job Opportunities in England

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• Social Work
• Web Developer
• Non-Profit Project
• Shared Home
• Hospitality
• Sustainable Community
• Contact with nature
• City & Town
• Contact with animals
• Vegetarian / Vegan
• Yoga / Meditation
• Adventure Sports

Hours of collaboration per week

Travel length.

Medium Term

• At least one
• All included

Accommodations

• Private Room
• Shared Dorm

Perfect for digital nomads

• Fast Internet Access
• Basic Internet Access
• Dedicated Workspace

Additional Benefits

• Free Laundry
• Use our equipped kitchen
• Bikes at your disposal
• Free Events
• Get free drinks or beverages.
• Free Hiking Tours
• Free Parties
• Discounts on Accommodation
• Language lessons
• Discounts on Drinks
• Discounts on Tours
• Discounts on Parties
• Yoga classes
• Holistic Therapies
• Discounts on Pubs
• Discounts on Restaurants
• Permaculture Course
• Surf lessons

Work exchange and Volunteer programs in the United Kingdom: Hostels, Home stays, NGOs, Farms, Eco villages and more

218 opportunities found

Hospitality Northamptonshire, United Kingdom

Come help our Christian Charity in the UK!

Homestay Somerset, United Kingdom

Help us with our cottage garden, veg beds & mini orchard

• Higher approval

Homestay Urquhart, United Kingdom

Stay in a rural Scottish Church & help us in our garden/woodland

A day in the life of a worldpacker.

Painting murals in the desert of Jordan 🐪

Volunteering at a farm in France 🌱

My experience being a filmmaker in Bali 📽️​

Another day volunteering at a sea turtle conservation camp in Costa Rica 🌺

Guest House Highland, United Kingdom

Help me in my B&B and enjoy the Highlands!

Homestay Belton, United Kingdom

General help with horses, house and garden maintenance

Homestay ISLE OF COLL, United Kingdom

Experience life on a Hebridean island, apiaries & new build tasks

Homestay Tarbert, United Kingdom

Come and have a GREAT TIME in an Artist's Retreat :)

Homestay Aberlour, United Kingdom

A wee slice of Scottish paradise in Moray Speyside!

Homestay Norfolk, United Kingdom

English Homestay | garden/house work | A very special experience

• High demand

Holistic Center Churchstaton, United Kingdom

Help with our nature-based, off-grid healing retreat on the Black

• Sustainable project

Farm Argyll and Bute Council, United Kingdom

Give us a hand in our farm on Scottish Island!

Experience life on a Hebridean Island, indoor painting

Homestay Farnham, United Kingdom

Experience a beautiful English Spring Surrounded by Nature!

Farm Dumfries and Galloway, United Kingdom

Help preparing the garden for spring

Homestay Oban, United Kingdom

Looking for honest healthy hardworking humans who want to help

Guest House Oxford, United Kingdom

Give us a hand in our guesthouse in Oxford

Join the community.

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Wondering if Volunteer Abroad in the United Kingdom is for you?

The United Kingdom doesn’t have a definite style common to all countries that are part of it. Which makes it a great destination for a backpacking or work exchange trip. It’s easy to travel around the UK by bus, train or renting a car, much like their neighboring countries in Europe. No one can deny the weather is a little harsh, but there’s so much to see that you won’t even notice if the sky’s a little cloudy 

If you like pop culture, a lot of typical English stuff will leave you open-mouthed when you volunteer abroad in the United Kingdom, like the insane amount of Beatles-related attractions. Go to England if you are a fan of famous works like Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Who, or if you’re one of those people that think they’re the only ones who get Monty Python! Jokes aside, a trip to the UK is certainly a cultural trip. Besides England, the UK also comprises work exchange opportunities in Northern Ireland , Scotland and Wales. These countries are most known for their landscapes, rugged coastline, mountains, national parks, and each one has something unique, like the Welsh language or Celtic culture. In the capital of Wales, Cardiff you’ll experience a coastal city with a lively nightlife and a medieval castle! If you like to see lakes, hike and enjoy nature, but don't care much about the weather- you've found your spot.

Why you should do volunteer work in the United Kingdom

There’s always a reason to do a solo travel in europe  and the UK is a great way to start. If you’re looking for college cities with people coming and going all the time, try to work in exchange for housing in Oxford, Cardiff or Edinburgh. Larger cities with universities and famous attractions have a huge flow of international students and tourists. They’re great for volunteer opportunities like working in a hostel, school or a cafe. And they’re perfect if English isn’t your native language and you want to get immersed in the culture that came up with it .

To volunteer abroad in the United kingdom you can visit major cities like London, Birmingham or Manchester, but you can also venture into smaller cities. Life in the countryside of England, for example, is also very enjoyable if you want to use your trip to relax and get away from a busy routine. And they’ve got some great places to visit near London too. For example, you can get a train from London to Salisbury and then bike from Salisbury to Stonehenge (18km) to have what might be one of the coolest days of your life.

Best cities to get free accommodation in exchange for volunteer work in the United Kingdom

When you picture work and travel in the United Kingdom, probably the first thing that comes to mind is being a volunteer in London . The capital of England is famous for landmarks like the Palace of Westminster, the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Big Ben and many others. Living in London is definitely worth it. Hostel work is also available in the capital of Ireland. Just remember when traveling in Ireland - the country famous for the Giant’s causeway, Saint Patrick's Day and Guinness - that it's not part of the UK. Ireland has been a member of the European Union since 1973. You can still go there, just the visa requirements will be different from other countries in the UK.

Big cities like London and Dublin are great. However volunteer jobs are varied, and you can go further. For example, you can give farming a try over the Scotish Highlands, or use our filters to check out some Worldpackers eco hosts in ecovillages , farms and others . Other options are  volunteer in Belfast , volunteer in Liverpool and volunteer in West Sussex .

Costs and Visa: How Can You Volunteer in the United Kingdom

Now we know the UK is the union of 4 countries: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Besides being one of the most popular destinations in the world, the UK is not the cheapest. The currency is the Pound Sterling (£). Even with such a strong currency, it's completely possible to travel to the UK on a budget. You can be a volunteer in the UK using Worldpackers and get free accommodation in exchange for work. In addition, most big cities have free museums, galleries and other attractions, so you can prioritize free options and still have a wonderful time. We’re not done yet: you can also save with free breakfast and other benefits our hosts offer to Worldpackers travelers.

Depending on what country you’re from, you’ll need a visa to enter the UK. Countries which need a UK visa are: Non-EEA citizens, Non-Swiss citizens, Non-Commonwealth citizens, and holders of unrecognized passports by the UK. The first step is to check the requirements on their government website.

How volunteering experience in United Kingdom can change your life

Volunteering in the UK with accommodation is a great way to start a trip in a safe environment. You’ll be welcomed by a host, have a place to sleep and food. A short work exchange trip could be the first “taste” of what could turn into a global work and travel experience . A lot of full-time travelers started their life-changing journeys with a single weekend trip. All you need is that first step.

No matter how long you wanna stay on the road, many people dream of taking a trip to discover themselves, but don't know where to start. Many think it’s impossible to afford such a trip and for some it actually is. Getting free accommodation in exchange for work is an awesome way to save money while traveling . Become a member and we’ll help you out 

How do Worldpackers trips work?

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Travel and Work in England

Last Updated: February 15, 2022

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 9 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 28,134 times.

People who love to travel and work in Europe, may wish to secure work in England. The UK Home Office judges most work visas based on a points system of importance, skill and connection. You must be able to prove a good connection to employment in the UK and financial support if you are living with family. Looking for work in England can be difficult, especially if you are not a member of the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA). You should research which visa category you fit into. Once you receive your work visa, you will be able to travel throughout the UK, Europe and other countries. Please note that you may require a Schengen visa if you are a visa national to one of the Schengen countries. The Schengen countries are Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland. Find out how to travel and work in England.

• You must be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid passport.
• You must be a student. You can be either an undergraduate or graduate level student who has completed at least 1 year of study. You cannot take the internship beyond 12 months after your degree completion.
• You must have between $3,000 and $4,000, depending upon if your internship is paid or unpaid, respectively.
• Look on the BUNAC website's internship directory, or try to find 1 on your own. If you find an internship, then you should apply for a BUNAC sponsorship. They take applications on their site all year round. Once you secure a sponsorship, they will help you to get the appropriate visa and insurance.

• To prove that they couldn't fill the job domestically, it must have been advertised for at least 28 days in the UK. The employer must prove that UK workers were given first opportunity to fill the job, but they were unable to find a suitable candidate within the country.
• Alternatively, the job can be listed on the UK shortage occupation list. This list includes, but is not limited to, engineers, social workers, musicians, chief executives, biological scientists, chefs, nurses and physicists. Visit ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/workingintheuk/shortageoccupationlistnov11.pdf to peruse the complete list.
• This type of visa also applies to inter-company transfers and sportspeople.

• If you have this history, you should apply for this type of work visa immediately. You will not be able to switch from a different type of visa application to this.

• Each type of Tier 1 visa requires a different amount of personal funding. Entrepreneurs and investors are required to show proof of a set amount of money in their account.

Community Q&A

• If you find the visa application process complicated, you may want to hire an immigration lawyer. In the case of a work sponsorship, the employer's legal department may be able to help you. If you are applying for a visa type that has a limited number of applications, hiring someone who knows all the requirements may increase your chances of receiving a visa on the first attempt. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Do not attempt to travel to the UK and overstay your visa. It is likely you will be found and deported, in which case you will be banned from entering the UK again for a long period of time. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
• Most UK working visas do not allow you to apply throughout the year. Once a certain number of visas are granted, or the deadlines have passed, you will not be able to submit an application for the current year. If you want to travel and work in the UK, you should try to plan at least one year ahead of time. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

• Degree program (optional)
• BUNAC sponsorship
• IAESTE Exchange
• Work sponsorship
• UK ancestry
• UK shortage occupation list
• Exceptional talent
• Business entrepreneur or investor
• Travel visa
• Business representative
• UK home office website

You Might Also Like

• http://www.globalvisas.com/uk_immigration/england_work_visa.html
• http://www.lonelyplanet.com/england/work-study-volunteering/work
• http://www.uk-yankee.com/guide/expat-guide-uk/uk-visas-immigration
• http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/working/

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A working holiday visa allows young people to work and explore a chosen country. They say travel broadens the mind and this experience is often the first time a young adult will spend months or years away from their family. It allows young people to learn other cultures, traditions and gain memories for life.

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News: Summer Camp USA '25 applications are open

SPF at the ready! Congrats to everyone who's heading to camp this summer. If you couldn't make it for summer '24 or you're already anticipating another season at camp, you can now book for summer '25. Make a difference, earn $$ and spend your summer Stateside. Easiest pitch ever. 

SPF at the ready! Congrats to everyone who's heading to camp this summer. If you couldn't make it for summer '24 or you're already anticipating another season at camp, you can now book for summer '25. Make a difference, earn $$ and spend your summer Stateside. Easiest pitch ever.  FIND OUT MORE

All the feels

News: JENZA scholarship recipients announced!

We direct 5% of profits to our Youth Access Scholarship Fund for moments like this. We're delighted to announce our scholarship awardees, who'll all be travelling on JENZA experiences in 2024. Click to watch their reactions and to find out more.

We direct 5% of profits to our Youth Access Scholarship Fund for moments like this. We're delighted to announce our scholarship awardees, who'll all be travelling on JENZA experiences in 2024. Click to watch their reactions and to find out more. FIND OUT MORE

London loves

Hiring! Fashion, Finance, PR internships + more

No summer plans, needing to do a semester overseas, or just graduated and wondering what's next? We currently have London and UK based internships available in Marketing, Fashion, Architecture, Artist Management, Finance and more.

No summer plans, needing to do a semester overseas, or just graduated and wondering what's next? We currently have London and UK based internships available in Marketing, Fashion, Architecture, Artist Management, Finance and more. FIND OUT MORE

Meet our Camp Insiders!

Inside story on summer camp

What's summer camp in America actually like? Why live in the woods for two months? And why is everyone always covered in neon paint? Just some of the questions our JENZA Camp Insiders will be answering between now and summer '24. Here's Camp Insider Sophie: on swapping Melbourne for Maine, second guessing herself, and then realising camp was the best decision she’d ever made. Ahh, we love a happy ending. Find out more to watch all our Camp Insider videos.

The JENZA blog

All the inspo and intel on work & travel

Need to know / Canada

Tips on landing your dream ski job in Canada this winter

Hannah Jeffery

Canada jobs are some of the most coveted on the backpacker circuit. Here's the inside intel on landing one.

Jenza Talk / Japan

How to apply and prepare for a working holiday in Japan

Ebony Tremain

The insider matcha scoop on work, play and finding your way in Japan.

Need to know / Summer camp

Think you can’t afford to travel overseas? Think again.

Summer camp. Laughing in the face of the cost of living crisis.

Where can I go?

Stick a pin in it

Work in the UK

Everything New Zealand

Movers and shapers

Shaping the future of travel

We know it’s youth voices that make the world go round. (Gravity, you’re also quite important). Meet our Youth Advisory Panel – the 18-25 year olds who help to shape everything we do.

Upcoming Events

Virtual travel talk | Tue 30 Apr '24 @ 19:00 (GMT)

Working holidays with JENZA - Everything you need to know

Want to go travelling or planning a gap year, but don't know where to go and what you can do? Our escape artists (otherwise known as the JENZA Support Squad) are here to give you the rundown on all our work overseas opportunities.

Virtual travel talk | Thu 2 May '24 @ 17:30 (GMT)

Intern UK with JENZA - Everything you need to know

What do you get if you cross career goals + travel goals? Whether you're a current student looking to get ahead this summer, need academic credit as part of your degree, or you're a recent grad needing professional work experience - Intern UK is a slam dunk for your resume. Find out more, meet the JENZA team, and ask all your questions at our virtual travel talk.

Free virtual info event - Wed 22 May '24 @ 19:00

Summer Camp USA - Everything you need to know

Spend your summer living, earning and having the time of your life as an Activity Specialist or Camp Counsellor in the USA. Job placement and new BFFs included. Join our travel talk for the need to know on visas and how JENZA helps you land a job before you go.

Travel you can trust

Our Extra Mile Promise

Every JENZA experience has been shaped by our Youth Advisory Panel, roadtested by our travellers, and backed by 60+ years of work abroad expertise. But if we still don’t rock your world, we’ll refund the part of your JENZA program you’re not happy with. T&Cs apply

We promise to wear pants

Book a call

Not sure whether you want to do a ski season in Canada, a summer camp in the States or a gap year doing all of the above? All our JENZA Support Squad have worked the world, so can give you firsthand advice on where to go, what jobs you can do, and how the heck to fill out that visa form.

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• Visas and immigration
• Work in the UK

Skilled Worker visa

A Skilled Worker visa allows you to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer.

This visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa.

It also allows you to work in UK waters.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you must:

• work for a UK employer that’s been approved by the Home Office
• have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ ( CoS ) from your employer with information about the role you’ve been offered in the UK
• do a job that’s on the list of eligible occupations
• be paid a minimum salary - how much depends on the type of work you do and the date you got your CoS

The specific eligibility depends on your job .

You must have a confirmed job offer before you apply for your visa.

Knowledge of English

You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English. You’ll usually need to prove your knowledge of English when you apply.

If you’re not eligible for a Skilled Worker visa

You may be eligible for another type of visa to work in the UK .

How long you can stay

Your visa can last for up to 5 years before you need to extend it. You’ll need to apply to extend or update your visa when it expires or if you change jobs or employer.

If you want to stay longer in the UK

You can apply to extend your visa as many times as you like as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements.

After 5 years, you may be able to apply to settle permanently in the UK (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’). This gives you the right to live, work and study here for as long as you like, and apply for benefits if you’re eligible.

How to apply

You must apply online.

How you apply depends on whether you’re:

• outside the UK and are coming to the UK
• inside the UK and extending your current visa
• inside the UK and switching from a different visa

If you want to change your job or employer, you must apply to update your visa .

Your partner and children can apply to join you or stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they’re eligible.

How long it takes

You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before the day you are due to start work in the UK. This date is listed on your certificate of sponsorship.

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity and provide your documents.

You may need to allow extra time if you need an appointment to do this. You’ll find out if you need one when you start your application.

Getting a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within:

• 3 weeks, if you’re outside the UK
• 8 weeks, if you’re inside the UK

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision. How you do this depends on whether you’re outside the UK or inside the UK .

How much it costs

You, your partner or children will each need to:

• pay the application fee
• pay the healthcare surcharge for each year of your stay
• prove you have enough personal savings

Check how much money you’ll need .

If you work in public sector healthcare

If you’re a doctor or nurse, or you work in health or adult social care, check if you’re eligible to apply for the Health and Care Worker visa instead. It’s cheaper to apply for and you do not need to pay the annual immigration health surcharge.

What you can and cannot do

With a Skilled Worker visa you can:

• work in an eligible job
• bring your partner and children with you as your ‘dependants’ , if they’re eligible
• take on additional work in certain circumstances
• do voluntary work
• travel abroad and return to the UK
• apply to settle permanently in the UK (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) if you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years and meet the other eligibility requirements

You cannot:

• apply for most benefits ( public funds ), or the State Pension
• change jobs or employer unless you apply to update your visa

If your application is successful, you’ll get a full list of what you can and cannot do with a Skilled Worker visa.

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Global travel advisory

For all essential travel, check travel advisories and requirements before you leave Canada.

Follow all additional local public health measures while travelling.

Stay informed when you  return to Canada .

How to apply

Who can apply.

To work in the United Kingdom (UK) under the Youth Mobility Scheme, you must:

• be a Canadian citizen
• be 18-35 years old (inclusive)
• have a valid Canadian passport

Other requirements may apply. Check  the UK website  for more details.

What type of work visa do I need?

You need to apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa.

With this visa, you can change jobs and work most job types during your stay.

Learn more about what you can and can’t do with this visa, including what jobs you can’t hold, by checking the UK website .

Do I need a formal job or internship offer?

No, you don't need a formal job offer (pre-arranged contract of employment) or a formal internship offer.

How long can I stay and work?

You can participate in the UK’s Youth Mobility Scheme once for up to 36 months.

Your visa lets you live and work in the UK for up to 24 months. You can then apply to extend your visa for an additional 12 months if you

• currently live in the UK
• have a valid Youth Mobility Scheme visa

Start your Adventure

About the united kingdom.

The United Kingdom (UK) combines Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales. The UK is home to many different cultures, with more than 160 nationalities speaking more than 300 different languages.

The UK has sprawling hills, misty moors, sandy coves, rugged coastlines and winding country roads as far as the eye can see. Some of the most iconic ancient woodlands and rural terrains in Europe can be found here.

There's always something exciting happening in Britain, from sightseeing tours of London’s landmarks to uncovering centuries of history at one of the many castles or museums. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea, go camping in the hills or hiking in one of 15 national parks.

The UK is home to the world famous Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Neolithic Stonehenge, Roman Baths complex and centuries-old Oxford and Cambridge Universities.

The best way to make sure your trip is the experience of a lifetime is to plan. Review our travel checklist to find out what you should know or do before travelling to and working in a foreign country.

Before you leave, remember to register as a Canadian abroad to receive notifications in case of an emergency while you are abroad or of a personal emergency at home. The service also enables you to receive important information before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest.

Need help planning? One of IEC’s recognized organizations might be able to help you find a job, transportation, and provide travel advice.

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From our Camp Class of 23 8 reasons why you should work at summer camp in America

Hear from people who've been there and tie-dyed the staff t'shirt. Here's what our class of '23 campers had to say about their summer working at camp.

Summer ’25 bookings are open!

That's a wrap on summer '24 camp applications. Congrats to everyone who’s heading out to camp in America this summer. Summer camp '25 applications are already open , so book now with a deposit to lock in the ultimate summer job next year.

This way to the pool

Canada working holiday applications are now open! The earlier you enter the visa pools, the more chance you have of securing your visa. Plus 200 jobs available at our Canada winter job fair in London, 31 May-2 Jun. 

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Earn money, explore the world, enhance your CV. Preferably, all at the same time. From two weeks to two years, whatever gap you have in your CV/passport/bank account – we have a BUNAC program to fill it. 

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A Guide to Jobs & Work Abroad Programs

Work abroad programs are a great way to earn more than just money. The list of advantages is practically endless: broadened horizons, new skills, improved independence, new friendships (and business relations), a new language added to your repertoire, and a boost to take your career dreams to the next level. You’ll be having so much fun overcoming new challenges and having new experiences that your job abroad won’t even feel like work; rather, it’ll be like one crazy (paid!) adventure.

How to work abroad

So how do you even get a job abroad ? Well, you’ll want to start by finding the destinations where you can legally work abroad and then start your job search. Or, you can find a job that allows you to work abroad, and they will often sponsor your work visa.

You can also get a job overseas with no experience ! In fact, teaching English abroad is the perfect job in that particular scenario. However, if teaching isn’t your true calling, you can either apply for international positions while still at home, or apply for a work visa abroad and figure things out once you arrive.

Here’s how to get a job abroad:

• Choose a destination. Places like Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland grant Working Holiday Visas to citizens of certain countries and who meet an age requirement. If you want to work abroad for a year or permanently, then you’ll want to secure a job offer prior to applying for work visas abroad.
• Choose your field. Sometimes, it’s easier to figure out what kind of job you want prior to choosing the destination. The demand for certain positions is higher in some countries than others, which will make your job search a lot easier (or more challenging).
• Apply to open job opportunities. Once you know where you want to go and what kind of job you want overseas, then it’s time to start applying to work abroad programs! The length of this process will vary depending on your qualifications and prior experience, and perhaps even your proficiency in the local language. 
• Apply for a work visa. Once you find your job, then you can apply for a work visa. Most likely, you’ll need to show proof of a job offer in order to qualify. There should be someone at your new workplace who is in charge of assisting you with planning your trip abroad.

What are the best types of jobs abroad?

The best types of jobs abroad depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Do you want to only work for room and board? WWOOFING is for you. Are you okay with working odd jobs here and there in order to fund your travels around the world? You can find short term and seasonal work on orchards, vineyards, and farms in countries like Australia and New Zealand. Or, if you want to start a permanent career abroad, nurses, program developers, software engineers, marketers, and teachers are needed all over the world.

Where to work abroad

Your options for working abroad will depend on your nationality. You’ll want to find the easiest countries to get a work visa for citizens of your home country, since the process of applying for work visas can be drawn out and complicated. For Americans, it’s exceptionally easy to get short term work visas in New Zealand, Australia, and Ireland. However, as previously mentioned, you can get sponsored for work visas almost anywhere as long as you have a valid job offer beforehand.

Why work abroad?

There are lots of reasons for working overseas ! Perhaps the earning potential is much higher in a country abroad than at home. Or maybe there are better job opportunities overseas in your chosen field. Or maybe, like so many of us, you just really want to be able to live abroad sustainably! Being able to work abroad means being able to travel and immerse in new cultures indefinitely—and that sounds like a dream come true to us.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find out all the answers to the most commonly asked questions.

How to travel and work abroad

To travel and work abroad for a year or short term, you'll need to qualify for a work visa in your destination. Some places, like Australia and New Zealand , make this easy even without a degree or sponsorship. Teaching English is also a good way to work abroad.

• 7 Best Ways to Work Abroad
• 11 Countries Where It’s Easy to Get a Work Visa

Where to find jobs abroad

The easiest places to find jobs abroad (without needing special skills) are New Zealand , Australia , and Ireland , due to the availability of working holiday visas. There is also demand for English teachers in Korea , China , and Vietnam .

• 10 Best Countries to Work in the World in 2023
• Working Holiday Visas for U.S. Citizens: Are You Qualified?

Reasons to work abroad include sustainable long term travel, networking opportunities, language learning opportunities, and a unique way to build your resume/CV for your future career or academics.

• Why Work Abroad? 9 Legit Reasons

The best types of jobs abroad include teaching English , hospitality (especially hotels and restaurants), nursing , and agriculture . Successfully finding jobs in these fields involves a varying degree of skill and qualifications.

• 10 Crazy-Cool Jobs Abroad
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EU proposing post-Brexit joint youth work and study scheme with UK

According to the Commission, they do not foresee the scheme allowing UK citizens to travel around the Schengen area unimpeded, but rather the visa would only be valid for a single state.

By Adam Parsons, Europe correspondent, and Tim Baker, political reporter

Friday 19 April 2024 00:21, UK

Young people could be able to move more easily between the UK and Europe and stay longer to work, study and train under proposed plans by the European Union

Under the proposal, which has been put forward by the European Commission, new rules would be drawn up to allow for greater movement between the UK and EU countries for people aged between 18 and 30.

Formal negotiations have not yet begun, and a UK source told Sky News no formal proposal had been put forward by Brussels to begin negotiating on.

The proposal will be further discussed by the European Council, which represents all the nations, before negotiations start in earnest.

Politics latest: Police issues Mark Menzies update

The plans proposed by the EU would allow young people to stay in Europe for periods of four years, with the same rules extended to EU citizens coming to Britain.

It would also mean EU students paying the same fees as British ones. Since Brexit , UK universities have charged much higher fees to European students.

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Announcing the move, the European Commission said it wanted to take an "innovative" approach to tackling the barriers experienced by young people looking to travel from the EU to the UK and vice versa for longer periods.

"The objective would be to facilitate youth exchanges, making it easier for young citizens to travel, work and live in the UK, with reciprocity for young UK nationals in a member state," said the Commission, in a statement.

"The United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union has hit young people in the EU and UK who would like to study, work and live abroad particularly hard," claimed Maros Sefcovic, the Commission's vice-president who oversees relations with the UK.

"Our aim is to rebuild human bridges between young Europeans on both sides of the Channel."

This scheme is separate to the 90-day visa-less travel that UK citizens can take advantage of on the continent.

It added: "It is not about conferring to young UK nationals the benefits of the fundamental freedom of movement enjoyed by EU citizens."

However, visas would not be "purpose-bound" and would allow people to work, travel or study.

Read more: UK to rejoin EU Horizon programme through new agreement New Brexit border post could be demolished

Rather than just being a free exchange, the EU also says it wants people taking part in the scheme to be subject to checks with the bloc or the UK able to reject applications - for example if someone was thought to be a threat to public policy, security or health.

The UK government currently has a series of agreements with 13 individual countries - including New Zealand, South Korea, Andorra, Iceland and India, which provide a similar pathway to what the EU is proposing.

The government has said it is open to the idea of extending those agreements with European countries, but has shied away from doing a pan-EU deal and there will be those who fear that an agreement such as this would be the first step towards the UK being drawn into a "freedom of movement" deal.

The EU said it wants a group deal to "ensure that all member states are treated equally in respect of mobility of young people to the UK" - but the current government seems to prefer its current set of agreements.

The Commission has rejected these fears, with sources insisting there is no intention of either pulling the UK into such a deal, or even offering it.

A Number 10 spokesperson said: "We have spoken about wanting to reduce legal migration and also about wanting to support UK talent and skills and that's why we have a system in place whereby we have a number of agreements with individual EU member states where that works in our interests and we have that rather than a Commission-wide agreement."

Labour denied it had plans for a youth mobility scheme.

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Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, a trade body representing the hospitality sector in the UK, welcomed the move.

She said: "Such an agreement would be a huge success for hospitality and tourism and, practically, it would solve challenges for the live music and events sectors."

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EU proposes youth mobility agreement with UK to help youngsters travel, work and live in both areas

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addresses a media conference at the conclusion of an EU Summit in Brussels, Friday, March 22, 2024. European Union leaders on Friday discussed plans to boost investment and the economy. (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert)

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BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Commission proposed Thursday to start negotiations with the United Kingdom to allow young people to move freely, work and study in both regions after Brexit — the U.K.'s departure from the EU four years ago.

According to the EU, the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU following a referendum in 2016 has damaged mobility between the two areas.

“This situation has particularly affected the opportunities for young people to experience life on the other side of the Channel and to benefit from youth, cultural, educational, research and training exchanges,” the Commission said.

When the U.K. was still a member of the economic and political bloc, its nationals had the right to live and work freely in the EU, with reciprocity for EU nationals in the U.K. Under the agreement proposed by the EU’s executive arm, EU and UK citizens between 18 and 30 years old would be eligible to stay up to four years in the destination country.

The deal would also allow equal treatment of EU and UK students in the field of university tuition fees. Most EU students must now pay international tuition fees if they want to study in the U.K. The Commission says these vary between 11,400 and 38,000 pounds ($14,200-$47,300) per year and are a strong deterrent for EU students who generally don’t have to pay as much within the bloc.

The Commission’s recommendation will be discussed by EU member countries who must give the green light before the executive arm can start negotiations with the UK.

“We have successful Youth Mobility Schemes with 13 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, and remain open to agreeing them with our international partners, including EU member states,” the British government said in a statement.

The U.K. has its own Youth Mobility Scheme, which it has offered to some EU member states. The Commission believes the British plan is less ambitious than its own proposal.

“Our agreements provide a valuable route for cultural exchanges providing partner countries are also willing to offer the same opportunities for young British people,” the British government added.

Follow AP’s coverage of Brexit at https://apnews.com/hub/brexit

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We’ve all seen the summer camp movies – young kids and teens having a coming-of-age moment in a beautiful summer camp out in nature. Guided by the cool camp counsellors as they navigate team-building activities and outdoor adventures. 

Despite what you see, these summer camps aren’t limited to North America. 

Now you can live your own summer camp dream as a camp counsellor in the UK! 

On a summer camp trip, you’ll get to experience a tradition dating back over 100 years. Help kids of all ages have the time of their lives in exclusive camp locations around the country. 

In exchange for all the fun and games, you’ll get camp accommodation included. Which means your salary ( £670 – £1,030 a month) can go straight to your post-camp adventure fund. 

And when you go with Global, you get: 

• UK summer camp match – Have your camp counsellor opportunity in your hands and ready to go before you leave home
• Local life essentials – We’ll hook you up with a British SIM card with your first month of coverage included. In-country partners will help you set up your National Insurance Number and local bank account. 
• Sightseeing tour – Discover London the easy way aboard a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. You can get off at any stop you like, and see this world famous city at your own pace!
• 3 nights hostel accommodation – Get 3 free nights hostel accommodation at a hostel in London. So you can start your trip with a bang! 

Keen for adventure? Love the outdoors? Love kids? Then this is the trip for you. 

Just imagine it; you’re living at a summer camp by a lake, by the beach, in a forest, or up a mountain. Your days are busy with plenty of hard work. But with a focus on fun, adventure, and building confidence, you can hardly call it work. 

The bonds you’re creating with your fellow counsellors and the kids you’re guiding will leave you with friends for life from all over the world. You might even meet some travel buddies to explore the rest of the country with. 

The best part is that pretty much everything is sorted out for you before you step foot on a plane. So you know exactly what you’re getting into before you leave home. 

With accommodation covered and a wage of at least £670, all your earnings could go straight to your travel fund.

Your days off could be filled with exploring the breathtaking natural beauty around your summer camp or getting to know your new friends better. 

When it comes to days off, you’ll get at least 1 day off a week. It’s a busy few weeks with plenty of activities and responsibilities to keep you busy. So it’s probably best to keep your most epic side quests for after camp when you’ll have plenty of time to spend what you’ve earned. 

When you book with Global, you book with the best. Our team will sort out your admin from visa assistance, finding an approved host family before you go, banking advice, side trip planning, human-centred 24/7 support, and much, much more.

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UK summer camp match

We’ll score you a guaranteed summer camp placement so you can kick start the most enjoyable summer of your life.

Dedicated Trip Coordinator

Handpicked from an experienced team who’ve been there, done that and are ready to guide you through your entire journey and leave no question unanswered.

Pre-Departure Guide

Our in-depth pre-departure guide will have all the information you need about your trip & destination, at your fingertips.

Trip visa guidance

Get your visa approved as cheap and easy as possible with our step-by-step instructions and personal guidance by your Trip Coordinator.

Personal Travel Concierge

You'll get a personal Travel Concierge to plan your flights, insurance or any add-ons to synchronise perfectly with your trip. Deal with a real human and get a personalised booking experience that ticks all your boxes.

Private airport transfer

Don't get stuck, lost or waste money on a taxi. Start your trip off right and roll up like a VIP. When you arrive a private driver will be waiting at the airport to whisk you straight to your initial accommodation in style.

3 Nights of hostel accommodation

Meet other Global Travellers in the heart of London. A 4-person dorm makes it the ultimate lodging for jet-lag recovery, or treat yourself and upgrade!

Camp accommodation

Located on each of the incredible camps throughout the UK, you will be staying in comfortable accommodation with your fellow camp workers.

"Welcome to the UK" Group orientation

Meet our dedicated local team at our Central London office for a detailed introduction on everything you need to know about life and summer camp in the UK.

Local life essentials

We'll give you a UK mobile number & SIM with loads of data & credit for your first month, and help set up your UK bank account and National Insurance Number which you’ll need to work in the UK.

London hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour

The best way for you to get your bearings in London! Climb on board this hop-on, hop-off bus tour, and enjoy the freedom to jump on and off at any of the designated stops around the incredible city.

Pocket Money

While your role is mostly about fun and games, there is hard work involved too! This is why you’ll earn a generous stipend of £1,647 per month, before tax, with accommodation included. Meals will be on a pay as you go basis.

Certificate of completion

In recognition of your hard work and dedication throughout the experience, and, it goes very well with your future resume. Employers will love this addition!

Ongoing local team support

Think of us as your family away from home. Whether you need advice or a shoulder to lean on, our team will provide you with unlimited support.

Global Emergency Line

Feel confident knowing we have a worldwide emergency team on standby, 24 hours a day, Monday to Friday. 

gWorld access

Stay organised with your personalised portal where you can keep all of your important documents and trip details in one spot and gain insider access to everything Global.

Travel alone but never lonely with Social! An exclusive social network inside our gWorld app to talk, share & meet-up with other Global Travellers in your region, with a dedicated Community Manager.

Global Academy

Gain access to an ever-growing range of skills & languages to learn before & whilst you travel.

Marketplace deals

Get exclusive access to deals and discounts through our online Marketplace. Save big on a huge range of products and services from our brand partners worldwide.

$250 off your next trip

The “Travel Bug” is a very real thing! Once you catch it, it really doesn’t go away! Book any other trip with us later and save $250. Why would you ever stop travelling?

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Just in case it’s not clear already, we’re not an employment or recruitment agency. Read more

To qualify for this trip you must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 18 - 30 years of age
• Be a citizen of an eligible country
• Have no criminal convictions in the past 5 years

Ask a question

Chat with us online now, or we can call you back for free, 24 hours Mon-Fri.

Our Summer Camp in the UK is designed to give you the perfect summer experience. Located in your preferred area in the UK, it will give you a taste of what it is like to live like a local.

There are a whole host of different skills needed to be a camp instructor or Group Leader at these camps and as well as being able to focus on the ones you are best at, you will learn a ton of new skills too. Great for the C.V and of course, great for your self-confidence.

Travelling with Global Work & Travel means that you don’t have to think any further than where you would like to go and what you fancy doing while you are there.

Our expert team will take care of the heavy lifting, getting you secured with a paid placement that aligns with your desires, your visa application and unparalleled guidance and support, answering any queries you have about your placement with our trademark depth and understanding.

When you touch down in the UK, you will have the confidence that you are one step ahead, that all you need to do is rock up to the rail station closest to your chosen location and your new summer family will be there to pick you up and welcome you in.

We have spent years nurturing bonds with the best in-country partners, so you can be assured that you are in great hands and will not only learn a ton but will likely have the best summer of your life.

When you work in a summer camp in the UK you become more than just a tourist. With a great bunch of fellow travellers and local workers, you will form bonds for life, often exploring the local bars after an amazing day of making kids’ dreams come true. Then comes the icing on the cake, time to explore the UK and Europe with a little cash in your pocket, saved from your weeks of work.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live and work in the UK, a summer that you will truly never forget.

Requirements 

To qualify for this trip, you must have a working visa for the UK, undergo a police check and be over 18.

What extra costs will I have? 

Flights, travel insurance, visa, vaccinations, criminal background check, souvenirs & spending money.

Accommodation is fully included during the camp portion of your trip. 

It be typical shared camp accommodation which varies from camp to camp. This varies from tents, to cabins, to university dorm rooms. 

Which means your camp salary can go straight into your back pocket to keep your adventure going.

Each summer camp is different. Different location, different focus, different groups of people. So while there’s no fixed itinerary for Camp trips, here’s a good idea of what your trip will look like:

Before you leave

Weeks 2 - 8.

Confirm your camp counsellor position before you leave. This means getting the right visa. But not to worry! We’re well-versed in helping travellers get this elusive visa, so we’ll help you get it fast and approved the first time.

Some children in the UK spend a portion of their summer holidays in beautiful natural locations around the country. They’re there to get involved in confidence building activities in the great outdoors and having fun while making friends. 

That’s where you come in! You’ll help the kids do specialised activities in the morning and supervise arts & crafts in the afternoon all while getting to know your fellow counsellors and kids. 

These days, there are specialised camps that focus on one specific activity. Think surf camp, fishing camp etc. So if you have a special interest or skill in something, you could share your knowledge and experience with eager kids motivated to learn the ropes. 

Otherwise, there are plenty of more general summer camps that focus on building confidence and having the time of your life in a beautiful setting. 

While you’re there, you’ll probably become something of a mentor to the kids. There’s nothing like a foreign camp counsellor to inspire the kids to chase their dreams!

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Frequently asked questions.

As the world’s leading gap-year and "work & travel" company, we pride ourselves on providing a premium service for Global Travellers. Choose from a variety of awesome experiences worldwide, and let us assist you with visas, pre-departure preparations, flights, insurance, and tours. Throughout your journey, our cool tech features will support you every step of the way. As a Global Traveller, gain access to gWorld, our personalised app designed to enhance your travel experience. Keep important documents and trip details handy, and take advantage of exclusive Marketplace deals, a vibrant social network, language learning resources, side trips, meet-ups, and more. It's like having all your favorite travel apps merged into one, but even better! But our support doesn't end there. With four international offices, over 100 dedicated staff members, a 24/5 emergency team, and the backing of over 90,000 Global Travellers who have turned their travel dreams into reality with us, rest assured you're in good hands. We also proudly boast the most and best reviews in the biz, and maintain a massive following on our social channels including Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Embark on your next adventure with confidence and ease. Join us and discover the world in a meaningful way!

While we would love to include flights and insurance in our trip packages, it is not feasible to have a fixed price due to the diverse destinations, trip durations, and individual coverage needs of our travellers from around the globe. However, once you register for the trip, we will assign you a dedicated Travel Concierge. They will work closely with you to arrange the ideal flights and insurance tailored to your specific adventure. Rest assured, our team is here to ensure you have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience from start to finish!

Absolutely not! No prior experience is required. At our summer camps, we prioritise qualities such as maturity, responsibility, and a sense of fun. As long as you possess these attributes, you are more than welcome to join us and have an incredible summer camp experience. We believe in creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can contribute and enjoy the fun-filled activities and adventures that await.

While we do take location preferences into consideration, we also encourage our travelers to approach the experience with an open mind. Rest assured that all of our summer camps are exciting and designed to provide a lot of fun for kids. Each camp offers unique opportunities and experiences that contribute to your overall adventure. So, while we strive to accommodate preferences, we also encourage embracing new possibilities and being open to the fantastic experiences that await you at any of our awesome summer camp locations!

During your camp placement, you will usually have at least 1 day off per week. This is a great opportunity for camp counsellors to come together, explore the area, and enjoy some time together. Additionally, after the camp placement is finished, you will also have the chance to do some exploring on your own. We understand the importance of balance and personal time, allowing you to recharge and make the most of your camp experience while also creating memories outside of the camp setting.

The staff accommodation varies depending on the specific summer camp you will be attending. However, you can expect to stay in shared accommodation with other camp counselors (and in some cases the camp dorm with the children) in a clean, comfortable, safe environment, conveniently right on site.

After the last unexpected disruption to travel caused by the..c word..people are now more eager than ever to venture out and explore the world, determined not to miss out on any experiences. Global Work & Travel works on a first-in-best-dressed basis. Booking earlier ensures that you don’t miss out on the best intake, season, placements and more! We recommend our travellers take 6-12+ months to plan their trip for a reason - to make sure you’ve got everything organised perfectly, stress-free. As a Global Traveller you’ll get exclusive access to gWorld, our personalised app where you can keep all of your important documents and trip details in one spot and gain insider access to everything Global. This is where you will find exclusive Marketplace Deals, a unique social network to connect you with other like-minded Global Travellers, access to our Academy with an ever-growing range of skills & languages, and so much more. Think all of your favourite apps merged into one, but like, better? Why not give yourself something to look forward to by booking that trip!

Yes you can! Simply tell your Trip Coordinator after booking that your friend is also going and they can link your profiles. For most of our trips we should be able to have you and your friends placed together or nearby. Meaning that you can live, work, play & travel together! But wait there's more! Not only can you travel the world with your besties at your side, you can also earn some extra cash towards your own trip just by referring your friends to Global Work & Travel. You can learn more about the great referral rewards program inside your gWorld account once you join. And for those who decide to go-it-solo, we’ve made it easier to meet other Global Travellers in the same region as you. Just like any other social platform, you’ll be able to interact, share, chat and meet with some really cool people who are doing trips just like you!

At Global Work & Travel, we share a deep love for animals and fully understand the special bond you have with your pet. We recognise the challenges of embarking on a trip without them. Due to travel restrictions, requirements, and limited pet-friendly accommodations among our host organisations, we regretfully cannot facilitate their inclusion in the journey. However, many of our customers choose to entrust their pets to a family member or friend, embark on their adventure, and return home to wagging tails and furry cuddles.

We know that life can get in the way of travel, so all our trips come with a great deal of flexibility. In most cases, if you cannot travel on your selected date, you can place your trip on hold to deal with whatever is holding you back, and continue in the future without incurring any penalty. You may also have the option of transferring to an entirely different trip and destination as well, or even transferring your trip to a friend or family member. In the event that you need to outright cancel your trip, if you give us 84* days notice you can do so with only a 50% cancellation fee. Your refund of the balance will come in the form of a Store Credit which you can put toward any other trip that we offer, including tours through third-party providers, as well as holidays through DealsAway.com, and is valid for 2 years from date of issue. As international travel can be complex, your options are based on the progress of your trip organisation and our support team can assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.

1. Choose a trip style

Find your dream experience & destination, then secure your spot with a flexible & low deposit. Activate your gWorld to unlock some cool perks. Well done! The hardest part’s over!

2. We become friends

Book a time to meet your dedicated Trip Coordinator who knows all the ins & outs of your trip. They’ll be by your side and working behind-the-scenes to pull everything together.

3. Time to go!

We’ll get your tickets, accommodation & transfers ready. Our in-country team or partner will have everything prepared & waiting for your arrival. Get on the plane with no worries!

4. 24/5 support

Never stress, knowing we’re there with you when you need us with ongoing & unlimited local team support. And just in case, we’ve got an emergency team on stand-by, 24 hours, Mon-Fri.

Still have questions?

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The unexpected can happen sometimes. Can't travel right now? Swap your trip, gift it or save it for later with our Lifetime Deposit Guarantee.

Worldwide support

Know that someone is always ready to assist throughout the journey & they’re only a call, tweet, comment, text or double tap away, 24/5.

We're the experts

With over 10 years in the industry and a team of over 90 passionate pros, you can bet we know our stuff better than anyone else.

Partner network

We have over 1,200 partners around the globe, so we have access to plenty of exclusive opportunities to make your trip the best it can be.

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Sunak rejects offer of youth mobility scheme between EU and UK

Labour also turns down European Commission’s proposal, which would have allowed young Britons to live, study and work in EU

Rishi Sunak has rejected an EU offer to strike a post-Brexit deal to allow young Britons to live, study or work in the bloc for up to four years.

The prime minister declined the European Commission’s surprise proposal of a youth mobility scheme for people aged between 18 and 30 on Friday, after Labour knocked back the suggestion on Thursday night, while noting that it would “seek to improve the UK’s working relationship with the EU within our red lines”.

The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen , suggested the scheme, which would also have allowed young people from within the EU to stay in the UK to work or study for the same period of time, would have been an area in which there could be “closer collaboration”.

“The topic of youth mobility is in both our interests, because the more we have youth mobility being on both sides of the Channel, the more we increase the probability we will be on good terms because the next generation knows each other very well,” she said on Thursday.

But the UK government indicated on Friday that Brexit had ended free movement and it had no desire to reopen that conversation, even with strict conditions on length of stay.

“We are not introducing an EU-wide youth mobility scheme – free movement within the EU was ended and there are no plans to introduce it,” a government spokesperson said.

However, they did note that the government would be happy to do deals with individual member states. It is known that the UK is keen to strike an arrangement with France.

One source said the UK wanted to “cherry-pick” which countries it wanted such programmes with.

The youth mobility scheme would not be a return to freedom of movement and would, if agreed, require a YMS visa, evidence of sufficient funds to sustain a living and health insurance.

The Conservatives have been urged to rethink their rejection of the offer because it could help boost the economy.

Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, said: “Expanding our existing youth mobility visas to cover European countries on a reciprocal basis would be a win-win.

“It would be a much needed boost to our economy, especially hospitality and tourism; it would offer great new opportunities to young British people to work abroad; and it would be a crucial step towards fixing our broken relationship with Europe.

“Of course, the details would need to be negotiated, but no UK government should reject this idea out of hand.”

Some Labour MPs believe the scheme could have helped Labour reach its plan to decarbonise UK power by 2030.

A senior Labour MP likened the scheme to a “sugar-rush, fast-fix” solution that would be helpful to an incoming Labour government but would be hard to wean off. They said: “Even though Labour has reduced its green objectives, it still wants to decarbonise the grid. There will be a time lag between training, recruitment and reskilling workers that would require an army of engineers for example to do that, and we’re currently far behind.

“To hit the ground running, this scheme offers us the opportunity to do that, but we would have to continue to fix labour market shortages.”

A Labour spokesperson said: “This is a proposal from the EU Commission to EU member states, not to the UK. It has come about because the UK government is reportedly approaching other European countries to try to establish mobility arrangements.

“Labour has no plans for a youth mobility scheme. We have already suggested some tangible ways that we would look to improve the relationship and deliver for British businesses and consumers, including seeking a veterinary agreement to tackle trade barriers, mutual recognition of professional qualifications and improved touring opportunities for artists.”

Anand Menon, a professor of European politics and foreign affairs at King’s College London and director of UK in a Changing Europe, said: “Clearly there is a debate to be had about the costs and the benefits of a youth mobility scheme, but I find it utterly depressing that both of the major political parties, one of which will form a government after the next election, do not know the difference between free movement and a limited youth mobility scheme which involves visas.”

He said he suspected the surprise emergence of a youth mobility scheme was a move to head off cherry-picking in the EU in the face of a surge of far-right parties, some of which are Eurosceptics.

“They are scared that member states will do bilateral deals, which becomes more of a threat the better the Eurosceptic parties do in the elections,” Menon said.

“For instance, Geert Wilders [the Dutch populist politician] would be more likely to do a bilateral deal with Britain if it involves annoying Brussels, and then the danger is you end up with governments in the EU negotiating unilaterally with the Brits because it is in their own interests.”

• European Union
• European Commission
• Ursula von der Leyen
• Young people
• Conservatives

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EU proposes youth mobility agreement with UK to help youngsters travel, work and live in both areas

Associated Press

BRUSSELS – The European Commission proposed Thursday to start negotiations with the United Kingdom to allow young people to move freely, work and study in both regions after Brexit — the U.K.'s departure from the EU four years ago.

According to the EU, the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU following a referendum in 2016 has damaged mobility between the two areas.

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“This situation has particularly affected the opportunities for young people to experience life on the other side of the Channel and to benefit from youth, cultural, educational, research and training exchanges,” the Commission said.

When the U.K. was still a member of the economic and political bloc, its nationals had the right to live and work freely in the EU, with reciprocity for EU nationals in the U.K. Under the agreement proposed by the EU's executive arm, EU and UK citizens between 18 and 30 years old would be eligible to stay up to four years in the destination country.

The deal would also allow equal treatment of EU and UK students in the field of university tuition fees. Most EU students must now pay international tuition fees if they want to study in the U.K. The Commission says these vary between 11,400 and 38,000 pounds ($14,200-$47,300) per year and are a strong deterrent for EU students who generally don't have to pay as much within the bloc.

The Commission’s recommendation will be discussed by EU member countries who must give the green light before the executive arm can start negotiations with the UK.

“We have successful Youth Mobility Schemes with 13 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, and remain open to agreeing them with our international partners, including EU member states,” the British government said in a statement.

The U.K. has its own Youth Mobility Scheme, which it has offered to some EU member states. The Commission believes the British plan is less ambitious than its own proposal.

“Our agreements provide a valuable route for cultural exchanges providing partner countries are also willing to offer the same opportunities for young British people,” the British government added.

Follow AP’s coverage of Brexit at https://apnews.com/hub/brexit

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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